10 BEST TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING TREES IN AUTUMN
1. Use a tripod.
2. Choose trees with leaves at the height of color (not partially green).
3. If you are attempting to capture the glow of yellow leaves, be sure trees are backlit (with light coming from behind the trees and towards the camera).
4. Attempt to position the sun behind a tree trunk to create starbursts or intentional lens flare (notice I used the word intentional).
5. Avoid trees with dead branches and distressed trunk bark (my rule of thumb is: Either all alive or all dead - there is no in-between).
6. Avoid trees with obvious influences of man (cut branches, graffiti, etc.).
7. Typically, shoot on non-windy days unless you wish to create a chaotic feel to your image. Remember, a little breeze can appear as a hurricane in your final image. If it is a windy day, try to wait for the wind to calm before making the image.
8. Vertical compositions are often helpful when attempting to convey energy and height of the subject.
9. Don't forget about your detail shots (fallen leaves on the ground, bark texture, or leaf close-ups).
10. Best selling photos often include a blue sky behind the trees.