Cheat sheet · Landscape & nature

Camera settings for autumn colours

Overcast light and a polariser make fall foliage glow; backlight makes leaves translucent.

Aperturef/8 (scenes) / f/2.8 (details)
FilterPolariserRemoves glare from leaves
ISO100–400
White balanceCloudy
Quick start: Overcast light and a polariser make fall foliage glow; backlight makes leaves translucent.

Starting exposures#

Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 13. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.

ApertureISO 100ISO 400ISO 1600ISO 6400
f/1.41/4000 stoo brighttoo brighttoo bright
f/2.81/1000 s1/4000 stoo brighttoo bright
f/5.61/250 s1/1000 s1/4000 stoo bright
f/81/125 s1/500 s1/2000 s1/8000 s
f/111/60 s1/250 s1/1000 s1/4000 s

Step by step#

  1. Shoot after rain for saturated colour.
  2. Use backlight through leaves.
  3. Isolate patterns with a telephoto.

Gear checklist#

  • Polariser
  • Tripod
  • Telephoto for patterns

Pro tips#

  • Water reflections double the colour.

Common mistakes#

  • Oversaturating in editing.
Landscape photographyMaximise depth of field and dynamic range: low ISO, f/8–f/11, a tripod and focus near the … Flowers & macro plantsShallow depth of field and soft light isolate blooms; watch for wind.…

Frequently asked questions#

What are the best camera settings for autumn colours?

Aperture: f/8 (scenes) / f/2.8 (details) · ISO: 100–400. Overcast light and a polariser make fall foliage glow; backlight makes leaves translucent.

What gear do I need for autumn colours?

Polariser, Tripod, Telephoto for patterns.

Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources