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How to capture Colorado's Fall colors

Brad Polt-Jones • Oct 21, 2022

 Here are some tips for capturing stunning Fall colors in your region

 Choose the right time of day

Landscape photography is all about capturing compelling light. Early morning or late afternoon when the sun is streaming through the canopy of trees, accentuates the fiery display of color as the leaves are literally set aglow.


 Clouds add drama and depth to your skies

Late afternoon is also an optimal time for clouds to develop in the mountain landscape. As the air warms throughout the day, it begins to rise and cool, and that helps in the formation of clouds. This can change in just a few minutes, so learn to be patient and wait for the right moment.


 
Use a polarizing filter 
A polarizing filter is fantastic for increasing the saturation and contrast in your image. They add drama to your skies, and make the colors pop in the landscape.


 
Explore the world of panoramic photography 
Panoramas really open up the sweeping majesty of the mountain landscape. While a phone camera is capable of producing excellent panoramic images, an SLR or mirrorless camera combined with advanced editing software produces exemplary results. While not absolutely necessary, a good tripod makes shooting panoramas more accurate and easier.


  Plan on multiple visits

Fall colors typically extend for a few months each season. But the peak times usually last for only a few weeks. And the colors can change  dramatically from one week to the next. Because it is difficult to predict the perfect time to visit your favorite location, I recommend planning repeat visits to capture the most vibrant colors.


 Good Luck!

Here are a few images shot in the first week of October 2022.



By Brad Polt-Jones 16 Oct, 2022
A vibrant balloon festival in the Animas Valley
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