Hey, fellow landscape photographer! Are you feeling that niggling chill in the air? Yes, autumn is just near and you probably already know the meaning that it’s the perfect time to start taking stunning autumnal landscapes. The vivid colors and comforting atmosphere is the perfect conditions for a landscape photographer’s dreams to fulfilled. But, before you rush into the field with a camera, talk about what you need to do to prepare for a spectacular fall photoshoot.
Scoping Out the Scene
We’ll begin by looking for the best locations. Research before you take your camera out of the bag. This could include looking on the internet, logging onto forums on photography, and maybe you might even think about scouring Instagram to see jaw-dropping fall photographs that might be available within your vicinity. Each of these will inspire you and fuel your desire to capture your own photo. Create a list of places that you’d love to visit from the most famous spots to hidden gems that will help your portfolio stand out. Also, don’t forget to plan the best way to reach them without becoming confused (GPS is your ally). If you plan it beforehand, you can eliminate the guesswork and you can eliminate the guesswork about the weather. If you’re like me in Ireland and know, rain and clouds can really make your day miserable, even though they weren’t predicted. But, it makes it more exciting and makes getting those great photos even more rewarding for me, at least.
Getting Your Gear Game On
It’s time to show your gear a break! You might have gone out in the summer months in the wild It’s best to seize this opportunity for “fall clean” as such and make sure that everything is in top shape. Clean your camera’s sensor Give your lenses a clean and ensure that your filters don’t get smudged. No one likes spots ruining the perfect shot. And the tripod? It is not negotiable for certain. It’s like the steady rock that will keep your photos sharp, particularly when that golden hour light begins to play its tricks. Some may be against tripods, and it’s okay too. Choose what you are at ease with, because it’s all that is important at the end of the day. Try some macro shots. It can be enjoyable, since you may see fungal growths in the floor of your forest.
Rocking Composition
Okay, let’s do some research about composition for a few minutes the next time. Do you know that rule of thirds? Utilize it to add balance and a sense of interest in your photos. I refer to it as more of a tool than a standard, since it’s not the only thing that can make or break of an image. Instead, go with whatever feels right, and tell the story of the scene you are seeing. Leading lines? They’re like breadcrumbs that guide viewers through your photograph and come in various shapes and sizes. It’s important to be aware of the elements when you compose your photo But the most important thing is to you will enjoy the fall weather more. It is also a good idea to take a trip as autumn comes to an end since you’ll have less foliage and the remaining leaves could be shining through.
Rain, Fog, and Drama
It’s not only about perfect blue skies. Fog and rain can be your new besties. Leaves covered in raindrops? instantly adds an element magic. Fog? It’s a great way to create dark and mysterious landscapes. Don’t be secluded in if the weather becomes quite dramatic. Take out that rain jacket for your it will be an opportunity. What’s happened often is that my expectations were not high initially because of the bad conditions, so the moment I managed to get an opportunity it was something extra.
Time for Some Fun Techniques
Have you ever tried that artistic shot that has a blurred background, and only one leaf in focus? You are familiar with the shallow depth of field and autumn is the perfect time to do this. Macro photos of grass that has been drenched in dew can make a photo that shows the essence of fall photography since the colors are more vivid. Long exposure photos are your best weapon. Photograph the movement that falls leaves and flowing rivers and watch the magic take place when they follow along with the movement of water, leaving their marks in your photographs. Be aware of the water as you compose and keep an eye out for patterns that swirl as the leaves begin their course, since these are likely to transform into circular patterns when you take your long exposure photos.
Dress the Part
Okay, I’m sure we’re obsessed with the shots, but we shouldn’t get our fingers frozen off. It’s best to layer, since you’re able to remove when you’re getting too warm.
