7 Autumn photo ideas

1. Shoot into the sun

Get the low sun behind the leaves for a back-lit pop. If your images are coming out too dark, use the exposure compensation dial to add 1 to 2 stops of over exposure.

To get a star-shaped sunflare make sure the lens is reflecting the sun (but don’t look at the sun — you risk damaging your eyes). Use a small aperture (eg. f16 or f22) for more of a burst.

If you want to know why the camera underexposes these shots join my free beginner’s photography workshop. Details at the end. You can sign up now and get started today.

2. Just two colours

Create eye-catching images by limiting your palette to just 2 colours:

3. Leaves on the ground.

A classic autumn shot - look down with your camera and see what's underfoot:

4. Look up

Now turn the camera skywards:

5. Include people

People add interest, context and they can kick leaves while you work the camera. To freeze the leaves being tossed, use shutter priority mode and select a shutter speed of 1/250th or faster. To add a bit of blur, try 1/60th. (If you need help with these settings join my beginner’s workshop — we cover shutter speed in week three).

6. Frost

Get out before the first rays of sun hit the ground for some crisp, seasonal shots:

7. Macro

If you have a macro lens, or macro mode on your camera, get up close and show the details. Use a tripod (or pile of books) and self timer if the light is low and you need a longer shutter speed:

Bonus idea

Have you heard of Prisma app? I believe it’s the most fun you can have with your phone, and leaf shots make perfect subjects.

Free beginner’s photo workshop

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