Photo Tips

Chris d'Aquin is a WeSay.com contributing writer.

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October is a few days aways, and for many of us that means Fall is right around the corner.  Here are some simple tips to help you capture all of the color and glory of this sensational season.

1. Carry your camera with you. The season doesn't last long — just a few short weeks — and inevitably you will see something picture-worthy as you walk or drive around.  Get into the habit of carrying your camera with you all the time so you don't miss these opportunities.

2. Mix up your shots. Many photographers feel they have to use wide angle lenses to capture as much scenery as possible.  While you can definitely get some great shots this way, don't forget your zoom and telephoto lenses.  Getting in close can really add some impact and detail.  Try to show sunlight shining through a few leaves, zooming in to isolate a couple of beautiful trees, or capturing some leaves floating in a pool of water.

3. Use a polarizing filter. Fall is a great time to pull out your polarizing filter.  It will likely enhance even your best shots because it creates more saturated colors and deeper blues in the sky.  Don't have a polarizer?  Then underexpose your shots slightly.  This will help create more color saturation.  You can use your computer's photo software to increase the contrast and play with the exposure or brightness.

4. Shoot early mornings and late afternoons. Make the extra effort to shoot during the "magic hour" just after sunrise and just before sunset.  There's a special quality about the light during this time, and it can really add some punch to your photos.

5. Don't give up because of bad weather. Overcast days create a soft filtering effect making colors even deeper.  Raining? Shoot under an umbrella!  Stormy?  Look for high contrast, especially spots where sunlight shines through, which can brightly light up a portion of the landscape against the darkening skies.

6. Use a tripod. You may find many of your shots will have a slow shutter speed.  In these instances, a tripod can be an invaluable tool in preventing problems with camera shake.  Even when you have plenty of shutter speed, a tripod will help you compose the shot exactly as you want it, especially when you are zooming in or focusing closely on small objects.