Capture your best fall photos ever with these tips

If you’re like me, you can’t wait for summer to be over. Not only can we look forward to a decidedly less sweaty season, but the Autumn landscapes and cooler weather make it perfect for inspiring you to get back outside with your camera.

The vibrant colours, moody atmospheres, and transformative nature of this time of year make it a photographer’s dream. In this video, landscape photographer Toma Bonciu, AKA Photo Tom, outlines his top tips for making the most of the fall season with your camera.

Embrace colour

One of the most striking elements of autumn is, of course, the explosion of colour. From golden yellows to fiery reds and deep oranges, the foliage presents endless possibilities for stunning compositions. However, it’s important not to overlook lighting.

As a photographer, you may find yourself mesmerized by the colours and forget the significance of light. Waiting for the right moment—such as sunrise or sunset—can make the colours more vibrant and saturated. For example, when shooting into the light during sunrise, the golden rays enhance the hues, making the leaves appear more intense and radiant.

Additionally, don’t shy away from experimenting with camera movement. Techniques like moving the camera during exposure or zooming in and out can add dynamism to your images, giving them an artistic flair.

Capture foggy forests

Try saying that in a hurry! Autumn is a season that often brings fog, especially in forests, which can dramatically transform the landscape. Fog simplifies the scene by removing clutter, creating a sense of mystery and depth. When photographing in a foggy forest, the mist softens the details, allowing you to create more interpretive and atmospheric images. It’s an excellent opportunity to experiment with mood and storytelling through your photos.

Embrace peak Autumn

Timing is everything when it comes to autumn photography. Mid-October is typically the peak time for vibrant foliage. Many photographers miss this window because they’re not fully prepared. Make sure to plan your shoots in advance—know where you’re going and what you want to capture, and ensure your gear is ready. This way, you won’t miss out on those fleeting, perfect autumn days.

Play with reflections

Reflections can add an abstract quality to your nature photos, especially when capturing bodies of water. Symmetry created by reflections of trees or autumn foliage in a lake or pond can lead to captivating images. Whether you opt for a centred, symmetrical shot or an off-centre composition, reflections can add an intriguing dimension to your work.

Create silhouettes

As the leaves begin to fall in late autumn, tree trunks and branches take on a skeletal, eerie quality, perfect for creating spooky silhouettes. This is especially effective in foggy conditions, where the mist further enhances the mood. Look for trees with interesting shapes and use them against a backdrop of soft, diffused light for dramatic results.

Waterfalls and streams

Autumn is also the perfect time to head into the forest to photograph waterfalls and streams. The combination of flowing water with the rich, warm colours of autumn leaves creates an appealing contrast. Position yourself to capture diagonal lines or natural leading lines through the scene, drawing the viewer’s eye through the photograph.

Set your alarm early

One unfortunate part about landscape photography is that it does not favour us night owls. You need to get up very early if you want to capture those magical moments around dawn. Misty mornings are a staple of autumn photography, especially in rural areas. The mist often rises in layers, creating a dreamy effect. These conditions are perfect for capturing landscapes that feel almost otherworldly. Be sure to head out early, as the mist is usually at its best just after sunrise. You can sleep later on, have a siesta!

Autumn light is particularly magical during the golden hours—shortly after sunrise and before sunset. While fog adds an extra element of enchantment, even without it, the warm, golden light filtering through the trees creates a beautiful atmosphere. Sunset often lasts longer in the forest, giving you ample time to explore and experiment with compositions.

As autumn progresses and temperatures drop, you may encounter frosty mornings. This creates a wonderful contrast between the icy white of the frost and the remaining golden hues of autumn. Look for elements like frosted grass, leaves, or branches, and capture the juxtaposition of fall’s warmth against the coming cold of winter.

Use drone photography for top views

Drones offer a unique perspective, especially in autumn when the landscape is painted with rich colours. By gaining altitude, you can capture patterns and lines in the landscape that aren’t visible from the ground. Don’t feel the need to fly too high—sometimes, the best shots are taken just above the treetops, where you can appreciate the full effect of the changing season.

Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons for landscape photography, offering an array of colours, moods, and textures. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant foliage, moody forests, or serene waters, there’s something for every photographer to explore during this time. So, grab your camera, head outdoors, and immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn.

---