real estate adviser: How to Perfect Your Fall Photography Skills, According to a Visual Editor

TRAVEL TODAY

Photography

How to Perfect Your Fall Photography Skills, According to a Visual Editor

The pandemic has been hard for everyone, especially those of us who love to travel or just get out and explore. As a travel photographer, both my job and creative outlet have been majorly affected. However, one silver lining is that by staying home, I've gotten reacquainted with my city. Going out for long socially distanced walks with my camera became a weekly highlight, even in the worst parts of lockdown.

I've kept up those weekly walks through the changing seasons and am excited for fall—it is one of the best times for photo walks. The shortened days make it easier to get out during golden hour, the colorful leaves make everyday sites more picture-worthy, and popular nature sites are often less crowded. Even if you can't travel far, this is a perfect opportunity to sharpen up your photography skills while exploring your town, your neighborhood, or even your own yard. Here are some of my tips to capture the best fall photography.

Take advantage of golden hour: It's the time right around sunrise or sunset when the light becomes very golden, giving every color a vibrant hue. Your photos will turn out more dramatic and have a dreamier magic feel to them.
Use a polarizing filter: When leaves are bouncing light everywhere in your shot, a polarizing filter can be used to reduce reflections. Plus, it can really boost the colors of the fall foliage.
Embrace bad weather: Everyone wants their summer and spring shots to be sunny and green. Even winter shots usually show clean white snow! But fog, mist, or even just an overcast sky can give your shots a moodier, spookier ambiance—which is particularly great around Halloween.

To help you catch those fall colors in all their glory, we've rounded up our favorite cameras and photography accessories. No matter where you are, you can use this time to "travel in your own backyard."