Now that we’re amidst crisp air, crunchy leaves and golden tones, it can only mean one thing… Autumn is here. The change in weather and season beckons photography enthusiasts to capture the ambers, scarlets and golds that paint the country. With that in mind, we thought we would share some of our favourite UK landscapes to visit during the Autumn and hopefully inspire our community of photographers to pick up their gear, pop on a coat and brace for the weather.
Our Top Two England Hotspots To Visit This Autumn
Below, we have picked two of our favourite UK-based autumnal photography spots to give you some inspiration. We’ve also included some pro tips to help you get the most out of your trip.
Wicken Fen, Cambridgeshire – Nature’s Realm Untouched
Nestled in the heart of Cambridgeshire, Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve offers bounds of wetland habitats, encompassing reedbeds, grassland, and woodland for every type of shot you could imagine. As one of Britain’s oldest nature reserves, its rich and diverse scenery makes it an autumnal haven for photographers.
Wildlife Hotspots: If you want to capture some of Wicken Fen’s most wondrous wildlife, this nature reserve becomes a sanctuary for migratory birds over the colder months. You can expect the likes of wigeons, teals and fieldfares. What’s more, the elusive short-eared owl can also be found in this territory. It’s one of the most remarkable birds for wildlife photographers to capture. See this bird gliding low over the reeds during dusk and dawn!
Captivating Autumnal Sunsets and Sunrises: Amongst the wildlife, the open landscapes of Wicken Fen make this a shooting space not to miss. From waterways reflecting the orange-toned hues to sunrises and sunsets that’ll leave you enthralled, there is everything and more at this location. It would help if you positioned yourself facing east against the vast fen to capture the sun as it peeks over the horizon; it’ll cast a golden hue that complements the earthy tones of the season.
Cardinham Woods, Cornwall – An Enchanted Forest Retreat
Secondly, we are venturing southwest to Cardinham Woods in Cornwall. As a hotspot for Autumn photography in the UK, this location offers a mystical forest getaway with winding trails and foliage that make for photography’s most stunning colour contrasts.
Wildlife Hotspots: Cardinham offers a spectacle of some of the UK’s most beautiful woodland creatures, including playful squirrels and running deer. When visiting here in Autumn, the crisp air could enhance the possibility of capturing the animals here, and against the backdrop of fallen leaves, you’ll be given a touch of vibrancy to your images. It may be worth taking a hut or den so you can sit back and relax while waiting for the animals to make their appearance.
Captivating Autumnal Sunsets and Sunrises: In terms of capturing the sun in all of its awe, the density of the trees in these woods creates a unique opportunity for light and shadow photography, especially at sunrise and sunset. Capture its beauty as the sun filters through the branches, allowing you to capture both the texture and intimacy of this wonderful season.
General Tips for Autumn Photography
Now you know what to expect from these hotspots, it’s time to give you our top Autumn photography tips for capturing the glorious scenes of this stunning season.
Golden Hour Brilliance: If you want to harness the power of the golden hour, that short time after sunrise and before sunset, control the flare, backlight your subjects when possible and always scout your location prior. The softness of the light will bathe the landscapes in a glow that enhances the reds, oranges, and yellows of Autumn.
Wildlife Patience: When it comes to wildlife, patience and readiness are key. Ensure your Nikon camera’s settings are adjusted for the potential to capture quick-moving subjects. Autumn brings a certain predictability in animal behaviour as preparations for Winter become a priority – and you should use this to your advantage.
Exploration and Safety: In the nature of photography, you should never be afraid to explore, but while doing so, always be mindful of your surroundings. As you know, the UK’s weather can be unpredictable, so wetness and wind could interfere with your plans. Stay vigilant of where you’re walking, take supplies with you, charge your phone, and let loved ones know where you are heading, and you’ll be just fine.
Equipment Care: Lastly, Autumn’s chill and morning dew may create moisture; ensure you protect your camera and lenses appropriately. A simple protective bag or weather-sealed casing can prevent the unpredictable British weather from harming your Nikon equipment. If you need to add to your equipment collection, we have everything you could possibly want on our website.
Our passions extend beyond providing exceptional Nikon photography equipment; we also aim to advise and inspire our audience to continue to push their skills. We hope that the above helps you to get the most out of your Autumn photography, especially when it comes down to capturing wildlife and the most captivating narratives that picturesque scenery can entail.
Learn More From Grays
Are you looking for the best places for Autumn photography near you? At Grays of Westminster, we understand that photography is not just about the equipment; it’s about the experience and the story each image tells. Our team is made up of avid photographers, and if you are ever looking for tips or guidance on places to visit, be sure to check out our YouTube channel or pop into the store for a chat. We believe that the unique and mesmerising gradient that Autumn offers should not be missed, especially when the UK has so many gorgeous locations to visit.
If you’d like any more tips and tricks from our experts, feel free to send us an email at info@graysofwestminster.co.uk or drop us a message on our socials!