New England Fall Foliage Photography Guide: Tips for Capturing Autumn’s Colors
Few places in the world rival the beauty of New England in autumn. From fiery reds to brilliant oranges and glowing golds, the landscape transforms into a photographer’s dream. Whether you’re a beginner just learning your camera or a seasoned hobbyist chasing that perfect shot, fall foliage season offers an incredible opportunity to sharpen your skills and create images you’ll treasure.
At SKÖNPHOTO, we love helping students discover the magic of fall photography. Here’s a guide from Larry Harper, Senior Instructor at SKÖNPHOTO, on how to capture the richness of New England foliage like a pro.
1. Timing Is Everything
Peak foliage varies depending on where you are:
Northern New England (Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine): Late September to early October
Central & Southern New England (Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut): Mid- to late October
Pro tip: Check local New England foliage reports online before you head out, and plan a few trips to experience the full range of colors as they sweep southward.
2. Find the Right Light
Lighting can make or break a fall photo:
Golden Hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) enhances warm tones and creates magical contrasts.
Overcast Days give you soft, even lighting - perfect for avoiding harsh shadows and boosting saturation.
Foggy Mornings add atmosphere and drama, turning a simple scene into something unforgettable.
Larry’s note: “One of my favorite mornings on the Kancamagus Highway started in fog so thick I could barely see the road. Within minutes, the mist lifted to reveal brilliant red maples glowing across the valley. The kind of shot you wait all year for.”
3. Composition: Go Beyond the Trees
Fall colors are breathtaking, but look for ways to add interest and variety:
Reflections: Mirror foliage in lakes, rivers, or even puddles.
Close-ups: Highlight the texture and detail of individual leaves.
Leading Lines: Use roads, fences, or hiking trails to guide the eye.
People in the Frame: Capture the season’s story with friends, family, or hikers exploring the scene.
4. Camera Settings for Vibrant Color
You don’t need expensive gear, but you do need to know your settings:
Shoot in RAW for maximum editing flexibility.
Use a polarizing filter to deepen skies and reduce glare from leaves and water.
Adjust white balance manually (cloudy or shade settings add warmth).
Keep ISO low (100–400) for clean detail.
Aperture f/8–f/11 for landscapes; f/2.8–f/4 for leaf close-ups.
Quick Checklist for Fall Foliage Photography
Bring a polarizer
Shoot during golden hour or overcast conditions
Use low ISO for sharp details
Look for reflections and leading lines
Tell the story of the season, not just the trees
5. Where to Photograph Fall Foliage in New England
Larry’s go-to spots for unforgettable shots include:
Kancamagus Highway (NH): Iconic mountain vistas and winding rivers
Stowe, VT: Covered bridges and rolling hills
White Mountains, NH: Panoramic views from hiking trails
The Berkshires, MA: Foliage paired with small towns and farmland
Coastal Maine: Fiery leaves against rugged ocean backdrops
6. Tell the Story of Autumn
Fall photography isn’t just about color, it’s about storytelling. Capture apple-picking trips, hikers crunching through leaves, or children playing in the yard. These personal touches make your photos more meaningful and memorable.
Larry’s note: “One of the best foliage stories is photographing your family with the colors behind them. Whether you have a young family and your children love to play in leaves or you have students who will soon head back to college, fall foliage is a great place to get memories that are rich in color and family memories.”
Ready to Capture Fall Like a Pro?
Photography is more than pressing the shutter; it’s about learning to see differently. Under Larry Harper’s guidance, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to capture not just foliage, but the stories and emotions that make fall in New England so special.
Join one of our New England photography workshops this fall or schedule a private lesson with Larry Harper. Together, we’ll make sure this foliage season is one you’ll always remember through the images you create.