21 Oct How to Take Better Fall Photos
Fall is here and so is the opportunity for some beautiful photography! Perhaps you are looking to head out on an Autumn leaves photo adventure and you want to take the best possible images. Here are our tips on getting the best pictures this Fall (and any time of year).
Location, Location, Location
Location is extremely important when taking landscape photos. Sure, there are many beautiful locations stretched across the region, but finding those sweet spots is what it’s all about. Try to find some spots that are slightly less photographed. This will help your photos stand out by being different. Find a location that is full of life, has a great view, and has adequate lighting. Take your time to make the perfect picture, and then snap away!
Take time for Composition
One important aspect of a great photo is taking your time. You’ve probably heard the phrase “point and shoot” but that doesn’t mean you have to do that. By taking a little more time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings, you’ll find your photos to start looking better. Think about the scene you’re about to photograph and line it up in ways that make sense. Try to find some balance in your shot prior to releasing the shutter.
Time of Day
This is probably one of the most important aspects of taking a photo. The lighting and time of day can make or break a lot of images. Typically, photographers will photograph in the early morning or late evening. This is referred to as the “golden hours” as the sun is just starting to come up or set over the landscape. This provides the most ideal lighting scenario for your photos as the light is soft and doesn’t produce such harsh shadows and highlights. Mid-day light when the sun is at the highest creates rough shadows and highlights which isn’t fun for your camera. The end result is less than desirable photos.
Less is More when Editing
Editing is often okay or even needed. Perhaps you have a unique style, or you just want to add some touch-ups to your photos. Either of these options is okay, but it’s important to remember the “rule” “less is more”. Since cameras can’t see as well as a human eye, simple edits are useful to get a photo to look as it did in person. Too much editing however can make images look fake, overprocessed, and unrealistic.
Try to Tell a Story
Try to tell the story of your adventure. Rather you are showing off the location, your findings, or your experience, a story is often more pleasing and interesting. Think back to kids’ books that included more images than words. Think about how those images could tell such a detailed and visual story. Showcase an area in a way that leaves you wanting more. This is especially well appreciated when you decide to print your images for a photo book or album.