Blogs

Well it is finally that time of year when the leaves are starting to turn golden colors. That means it is a vivid landscape for some great photography. I thought I would blog about my top five tips of taking better pictures during this time of year.

Top Five for taking better “Fall Fotographs” . . . .

#5- Be Flexible- Here in Pennsylvania the leaves can take a long time to turn vivid colors and a very short time to be blown to the ground. I swear it always seems that just when all the trees are bursting with color, a darn storm comes along and blows them all down. I’m not kidding! So be prepared to snap some photographs at a moment’s notice.

#4- Photographers, if you have allergies, take your medicine. I don’t know about you, but one day outside with all the leaves falling and I am stuffy for weeks on end. (Not really a photo tip but a good one nonetheless.)

#3- Think about the colors in your area and have your subjects wear the opposite. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at how good a purple sweater or crimson colored sweatshirt looks against yellow Maple. Remember your basic photography color rules when preparing for a photography session. Do not wear busy patterns. Plus, try and avoid green clothes because you could blend in with the foliage and look like a floating head. (Oh, also fall is a great time to show off those great sports jerseys, especially football jerseys look great when photographed as a family.)

#2- There are some other great fall activities besides leaf piles for a good Autumn backdrop. Don’t forget about corn mazes, apple picking and fall carnivals. All of these make for some great backdrops for your subjects.

#1- Is so easy! “Let kids be Kids!” I always try and schedule a photo shoot of my children on the weekend I need to rake leaves out of my yard. The kids love playing in them and I get some great shots. Like I said, “Let kids be kids.” Let them jump into leaf piles and throw leaves in the air. But when taking photos, give them a few boundaries. I focus them on one leaf pile at a time. Plus I promise that if they let me get a few “posed” shots not only will I let them play, I will take them for apple cider doughnuts and Hot Chocolate . . . .After the leaves are bagged of course! ( I may be a photographer with a creative eye, but I still need the chores done!)

Follow me at Dave James QVC