Capture Fall’s Glory With These 5 Tips
Autumn foliage won’t stick around forever, but you can capture its beauty like a pro whether you’re shooting on a Canon or your phone.
It’s the season’s height, and we’re sure you’re enjoying all the farms, treats and scares that our county has to offer. But how are you capturing those moments?
Autumn is one of the best times of the year to take outdoor photos, whether they’re staged for your holiday card, candids of a fun day or a beautiful landscape. Not confident in your photography skills? Not to worry—we’ve put together a list of tips to help, and enlisted the expertise of Franklin Lakes-based photographer Maria Rogers of Tiny Hearts Photography to make sure every picture you snap is perfect.
Think about lighting. The time of day that you shoot makes all the difference in the way your photos look and feel. Many experts suggest a slightly overcast days for capturing the leaves themselves, as the direct sunlight can cause a glare and dull their colors in the image. The time of day that you shoot makes all the difference in the way your photos look and feel, as well. Not sure what time of day is best? Says Rogers, “The best time for outdoor sessions is during the golden hour, either early in the morning or just before sunset. This soft, natural light enhances the warm tones of the season, making everything glow.”
Get the right support. Shaky hands are the bane of photos, but don’t worry—you can outsource plenty of solutions to that problem. Even if you’re shooting on your smart phone, you can pick up a tripod from Best Buy in Paramus (which also has plenty of options for camera tripods). Don’t have time for a shopping trip? You can use your arms as a makeshift tripod—just tuck your arms into your body and let that provide more stability.
Find the right backdrop. Don’t be afraid to travel off the beaten path to find your perfect photo location. Bergen has a wealth of parks with natural features that wow even more in the fall. “One of my favorite locations for fall sessions is Ramapo Valley Reservation in Mahwah,” says Rogers. “Its stunning mix of foliage, scenic trails and serene lake provides the perfect setting for both candid and staged photos.” Other options? Try the reflective lake in Overpeck Park in Ridgefield Park or Palisades Interstate Park in Alpine for stunning cliffside views of the Hudson.
Embrace seasonal props. Rogers suggests playing with props as you stage your own photos. “Cozy blankets, pumpkins or even a rustic wooden crate adds a playful and warm element to your photos,” she says. “These little touches create a fun atmosphere and give the images a cozy, seasonal vibe.”
Wardrobe matters. You always want to look your best in pictures, but the clothes you’re wearing can go a long way in elevating your photoshoot. “Highlight fall colors with your wardrobe,” says Rogers. “With the rich oranges, reds and yellows all around, use the natural beauty of the season to your advantage. Don’t overly match; coordinate instead. Choosing several colors instead of only two will allow you to tie in more variety. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns such as florals and stripes, or plaids and polka dots. Adding in textures such as velvet, lace, crochet or corduroy can also add visual interest.”
Have you shot any amazing fall pictures recently? Show them off on Instagram @bergenmagnj!
