Other New Jersey Photography Locations
New Jersey Photography Locations
Waterloo Village Photography Location
Updated Jan 1, 2026
Waterloo Village – This is an excellent spot for photography! Waterloo Village is a restored 19th-century canal town in Byram Township, Sussex County (west of Stanhope) in northwestern New Jersey. Its old buildings, lake and watermill make for some pretty dynamic photography. There are about 20 buildings here to photograph.
When considering what to photograph, the area offers an array of captivating scenes: the charming village main street, the picturesque waterwheel mill, the inviting general store, and the open door of a quaint doctor’s office.
Other highlights include a historic schoolhouse, a pottery shop with a small kiln where artisans craft their wares, and rustic stables adorned with wagons.
Vibrant water lilies line the lakefront, adding color to the landscape. On every visit, we were either alone or only a few people were present.
Waterloo Village is a unique place that stands out in history as it is the only place where visitors can experience an authentic, historical village situated along the Morris Canal.
Waterloo Village is a unique destination, renowned the world over for its preserved historical structures and setting along the famed Morris Canal. Today, you can still go to Waterloo and experience this ancient part of New Jersey’s history.
BASIC INFORMATION FOR PHOTOGRAPHING WATERLOO VILLAGE
WATERLOO VILLAGE ADDRESS:
525 Waterloo Road
Stanhope, NJ 07874
The grounds of Waterloo are open to the public from dawn until dusk. The buildings are only open if there is a special event or if there is park staff on duty showing the structure.
(973) 347-1835 (administered by Kittatinny Valley State Park)
Waterloo Village Facebook page
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO PHOTOGRAPH THE VILLAGE?
We love fall foliage here, but any time is good. This is a tranquil location, but you should know they hold events here, so you should call beforehand. The parking lot in the front may not be plowed well during the winter months. We have never seen anyone here during that time.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO PHOTOGRAPH?
If you want a quick visit to take in the views and snap some photos, then 2 hours should suffice. But there are about 20 buildings here, and to photograph them the right way, you could spend more time than that.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
- Water and Snacks
- Bug repellent seasonally
- Drinks
WHAT CAMERA GEAR SHOULD I BRING?
- DSLR Camera
- Tripod
- Wide-angle and zoom lens
- Polarizing filter and neutral density filter for moving water photos.
ARE THERE EVENTS AT THE VILLAGE?
The majestic Fields at Waterloo are an ideal destination for massive gatherings such as concerts, festivals, fairs, and food events. This 25-acre location provides a backdrop for any event you may be planning, too.
HOW CAN I GET ANY RECENT UPDATES BEFORE GOING?
Visit the Waterloo Village Facebook Page
Additional Park Information
Grounds Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Tour Hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., June through September
Visitor Interpretive Center: Saturdays & Sundays, 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., May through October
Special Needs
People with disabilities who require special assistance to contact the historic site/park. The phone number for each location is found on the home page of that particular site/park. Those using text telephone (TT) may get in touch with NJ Relay Services at (800) 852-7899.
Waterloo Village Photography Information
Camera Settings
There is a running water spot here by the mill, where you will want to do a long exposure to get the milky water effect, so you will shoot in manual mode at the moving water site. There is a small amount of wildlife here. You can visit our waterfall photography webpage if you need some extra help on how to do this type of long exposure, if the instructions below are not sufficient.
Manual Mode:
You will have to use a tripod to do long-exposure running and milky water shots. All of your settings will vary depending on the lighting and what neutral density filter you have. You will shoot in manual mode for the milky waters. ISO is always 100 or as low as your camera will allow. The aperture is f/22 or the highest f-number your camera allows.
Your shutter speed will vary depending on the light. Take some test shots to decide on your shutter speed after you put your neutral density filter on. (It’s like sunglasses for your camera to stop light from coming in).
Use your live view mode and avoid any camera movement, or use your shutter release or 2-second timer. You want at least a 5-second exposure for running water.
IMPORTANT: If you don’t have a neutral density filter, you may not get more than 1/15th of a second in the sun. Go to our store to buy your ND filter. I have a 3.0 for super-long exposure in the sunshine. See Pamela Goodyer’s recommendations and the filters she uses here. Support us by going to our store to purchase them.
At my own expense, I offer all of this to you: a humble tribute to Mother Gaia. It is my hope that you will spread my art and message to others, uplifting and inspiring their souls.
May my works guide photographers, illuminating their path toward creating dynamic and impactful images that showcase the raw beauty and essence of life in all its transcendent glory. —Pamela Goodyer
Restaurants
Frankie’s Lakeside Tavern:
172 Lackawanna Dr, Stanhope, NJ 07874
(973) 347-3300
Waterloo Village Bed and Breakfast Information
THE WHISTLING SWAN INN – We show you photographs and details of one of our favorite B & B’s in New Jersey in this article. This is only a short drive away from Waterloo Village.
ALL rooms have:
Seasonally inspired breakfast, served in the common dining room from 7:30 to 8:30 am, Monday – Friday and 8:30 to 10:00 on Saturday – Sunday (earlier breakfast by request; special diets accommodated with advanced notice)
Queen-size beds (King-size in Walnut Valley Suite, Stillwater Mini Suite and Waterloo Village Room), Wi-Fi, and private baths.
Rates include a full, seasonally inspired breakfast and a 24-hour complimentary hospitality station with an assortment of coffee, tea, beverages, snacks, and seasonal homemade offerings! For your comfort, the inn is centrally air-conditioned.
Waterloo Village Hotel Information
138 U.S. Highway 46 West, Budd Lake, NJ, US, 07828 – 2.8 miles from destination.
Camping
Stephens State Park:
The land for Stephens State Park was given to the State of New Jersey for park purposes in 1937 by Marsena P. and Augustus W. Stephens. This rugged, picturesque area includes nearly a mile of the Musconetcong River. One can trace the roots of the park’s history by viewing…
Status: Open through Sat Oct 31, 2015. Season Dates
Max reservation window: Sat Apr 09, 2016, Later Dates
Panther Lake Camping Resort:
The resort features a 45-acre lake on 160 scenic acres just 50 miles from New York City. We invite you to come and enjoy the wonderful outdoors, whether you prefer swimming, boating, fishing, or just relaxing on a sandy beach. It’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And if you think camping is only for those who own camping equipment, think again. At Panther Lake, we offer two exciting rental options for those families who want to enjoy the camping experience without purchasing their camping equipment. Panther Lake Camping Resort is a great place to explore if you are looking for a vacation spot just a short distance from home that offers fun for the whole family. Call now for a reservation at 800-543-2056
Weather
Click here to check the weather at the location.
