Expert Tips for Capturing the Best Autumn Photography Shots

May 14, 2023 11:14 AM by Isaias J | Discover

As the leaves change and the air gets crisp, autumn is a beautiful time to capture some stunning photographs. Whether you're a beginner, enthusiast, or professional photographer, here are some expert tips to help you capture the best autumn photography shots.

Embrace the Colors:
One of the best things about autumn is the beautiful colors that come with it. Reds, yellows, oranges, and browns make for stunning photo backdrops. Use these colors to your advantage and incorporate them into your shots.

Timing is Everything:
The timing of your autumn photography session is crucial. Try to plan your shoot during the golden hour - the hour after sunrise or before sunset when the light is soft and warm. This is the best time to capture the vibrant colors of autumn. You can learn addition Best Times to Take Photos Here

Golden hour happens both during the night and the day. Often moderately in the day in the Americas before daylight savings and earlier in the afternoon late fall.

Blue Hour is another time. Although it can be difficult to take photos during this time.

Experiment with Angles:
Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add depth and interest to your autumn shots. Try shooting from a low angle, or using a wide-angle lens to capture more of the scenery.

When you are changing your angle and perspective or change the axis where your camera is shooting you will often encounter lens distortion, image distortion or aberrations in the lens.

The example I explain is considering a “correct” photo that is shot firmly aligned with the ground. If you tilt your camera up a bit the light will hit your camera differently. This may change the edges of the camera that changes the brightness of the image.

If you look into the Histogram on your camera you will be able to see the difference in the slight distortion of a camera. Once you go back to your editor in Lightroom you may notice blue and purple lenses as well affecting your camera. (This is an aberration caused by your camera) often this happens when a certain part of your lens is hit by light.

Play with Depth of Field:
Playing with the depth is a way that you can change the way your photos look. When I first started Photography I thought for the longest time how to play with the depth of field besides a light filter. As I learned, more depth of field can help get details in portraits, wildlife and more. Adjust your camera's depth of field to share more and less of the background.

Changng the angle for fall autumn photoshoot

Don't Forget the Details:
Autumn is all about the little details, from the leaves on the ground to the frost on the grass. Don't be afraid to get up close and personal with these details to add texture and interest to your shots. Consider investing in a macro lens for these close up shots that you are doing. Using this for nature photos is perfect.

Look for Contrast:
Contrast is key in autumn photography. Look for areas where the light and dark colors meet to create a visual interest in your photos. Think of going in high concentrated areas where the light may hit the subject differently. You can think in terms of contrast in high contrast areas and low contrast areas. High contrast areas will be during the middle of the day or directly having your subject in front of the light. The second term is low contrast area, this may be in diffused light such as in shade, or with a diffuser on the light source.

Incorporate Movement:
Autumn is a great time to capture movement in your photos. Use the wind to your advantage and capture the leaves falling or branches swaying in the breeze. You can also use long exposures to capture car lights and tree leaves.
Utilize Reflections:
Reflections can be a great way to use lakes and ponds for photos. Don’t forget to get fall leaves in there or something related to fall!

Lens Ball Reflection Photography example

Use Props:

Props can help to add interest to your autumn shots. Try using a pumpkin, a basket of apples, or a cozy blanket to add warmth and texture to your photos. There are also different themes you can create during fall to help you out!

Keep It Simple:

Remember, sometimes less is more. Focus on a simple subject and let the beauty of autumn speak for itself.

With these expert tips, you can capture stunning autumn photos no matter your skill level. So grab your camera, head outside, and let the beauty of autumn inspire you. Happy shooting!

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