Everyone loves the cooler weather and gorgeous changing colors of autumn, right?! But it can be hard to predict when that color change is going to happen!
Some trees change as early as August, while most don’t change until early to mid October (this is of course, totally dependent on your location). And as photographers, trying to figure out what is going to be the best weekend for fall colors can be almost impossible!
However here are some tips from our ambassadors to help you make the most of photographing the changing colors of fall.
#1 – Plan to be earlier rather than later.
Melissa of Melissa Klein Photography says,
Fall is, hands down, my favorite time to photograph outdoor portrait sessions.
Chances are, even if the colors are not at peak levels yet there will still be a little bit of color somewhere. It may be one red or yellow tree or bush to use as a backdrop. You may have to search it out, but I can almost guarantee that if you’re photographing a session in early fall, you will be able to find something. Not all types of trees/bushes/grasses peak at the same time. I typically do a weekly pass of my favorite spots to see which place has the best color, and then we nail down a location a few days before our scheduled session based on my findings.
#2 – Know before you go.
Amy of My Letter-Sized Life says,
Do some research about where to go and what to expect in different areas. After a few years of fall drives with my family I know that we can expect to see a lovely mix of reds, oranges and greens in the canyons that are at lower elevations, while we’ll see mostly gold leaves in the higher elevations. I remember the first year we drove the scenic byway up near Alpine, we thought we’d gone WAY TOO EARLY because the only colors we saw were green and gold, but it turns out that this had more to do with the elevation and the types of trees in this area than anything.
I think all of the fall colors can make for beautiful backdrops, but if you’re looking for something in particular it’s always good to know before you go!
#3 – Choose fall-friendly outfits.
Kim of Apple of Our Eye Photography says,
Coordinating outfits to compliment the colors of the leaves can really make a photograph pop. Take it from this guy. He knows exactly what I’m talking about. Dogs are always invited to join in the color fun!
#4 – Avoid the crowds.
Melissa of Melissa Klein Photography says,
If you happen to be lucky enough to hit a perfect peak weekend, try to find a place that isn’t overcrowded with leafers (people out and about specifically to see the gorgeous fall colors). There are always some spots that are more popular than others for viewing the changing leaves, but the beauty of fall can be found all around you. Don’t forget, the leaves aren’t the only things changing color. Search out fields or tall grasses that are changing to gorgeous creams and yellows at this time. They make great backdrops as well!
#5 – Jump in…the leaves are great!
Tricia of Made with Love Crafter says,
Sometimes the best way to capture the changing colors of fall is to jump right into them! One of my kids favorite activities is jumping in the leaves! Every year we make a huge pile and they bury themselves in the colors. It’s a great way to capture a bit of the colors of nature and also the fun this time of season brings.
#6 – Take advantage of the warm autumn glow.
Amy of My Letter-Sized Life says,
Even the autumn light has it own unique colors. I LOVE to take advantage of the warmth of an autumn golden hour and really let my subjects bathe in it. Sometimes I’ll even set my white balance to cloudy to punch up those colors just a bit more.
#7 – Capture the changing season from closeup and far away.
Anna of Anna Bowkis Photography says,
After spending a few years in Asia, I’ve not enjoyed definitive seasons like we do here in the UK for quite some time. We moved back last summer and I have now got to enjoy all 4 seasons in their glory. Autumn has to be one of my favourites.
I love the changing colours of the leaves; from beautiful vibrant greens to rusty reds, flame orange and golden yellows. All happening in front of your eyes. I love walks in the country listening to the sound of the crunch underfoot from fallen leaves. Mornings and evenings are a tad chillier and we can start to wrap up in warm jumpers.
#8 – YOU’VE ALREADY MISSED THE FALL COLORS? DON’T PANIC!
Melissa of Melissa Klein Photography says,
If you happen to miss peak weekend, or if you’re photographing a session later in the fall, don’t worry – it is still a gorgeous time to photograph portrait sessions. This is actually my FAVORITE time to photograph families, as long as it doesn’t get too cold out. The leaves are usually brown and dead by this time, which most don’t consider a good thing. However, when you combine it with the right outfits and the warm sun filtering through the leafless trees, it can be beautiful.
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