Autumn Landscape Photography: Where to Go, What to Shoot & Gear You Need

Autumn is the golden hour of the year—rich colours, crisp air, and landscapes that look like they’ve been set on fire (in the best way). If you’re not out with your camera when the leaves start to turn, you’re missing some of the best landscape photography opportunities of the year. The light is softer, the air is clearer, and every scene looks like it belongs on a postcard. Whether you’re shooting in the Australian high country or planning an overseas adventure, autumn is the time to get out there and make the most of nature’s best show.

 

Best Places for Autumn Landscape Photography

Where you go depends on how dramatic you want your shots to be. Australia has its fair share of incredible autumn landscapes, but if you’re up for an international trip, there are a few iconic destinations worth considering too.

 

 

 

Top Australian Autumn Photography Locations

• Bright & the Alpine National Park, Victoria – Possibly the most famous autumn destination in Australia. The town of Bright turns into a riot of red, orange, and gold, with tree-lined avenues, rivers, and mountain backdrops making it a dream location for photographers. The nearby Alpine National Park adds rugged peaks and misty valleys to the mix.
• Cradle Mountain, Tasmania – The deciduous beech, or ‘Fagus,’ is Australia’s only cold-climate winter-deciduous tree, and it turns a spectacular golden hue in Tasmania’s highlands. Cradle Mountain is the best place to see this transformation, with rugged peaks, reflective lakes, and crisp mountain air adding to the atmosphere.
• Mount Wilson, New South Wales – A hidden gem in the Blue Mountains, this small village is famous for its lush gardens and tree-lined roads that explode into colour in autumn. Early mornings bring misty conditions that add a mystical quality to the landscape.
• Adelaide Hills, South Australia – Vineyards in full autumn glory, charming villages, and rolling hills make this a perfect destination for golden-hour photography.
• Lake Crackenback, New South Wales – Nestled in the Snowy Mountains, this area provides a stunning combination of autumn leaves and high-country scenery, with the added bonus of clear, starry night skies for astrophotographers.

 

Iconic International Autumn Photography Destinations

• Tuscany, Italy – Rolling hills, vineyards glowing orange, and medieval towns straight out of a storybook.
• Vermont, USA – The poster child of autumn photography, with endless forests of red, orange, and yellow.
• Japan’s Kyoto – Ancient temples framed by blazing red maple trees—perfection.
• New Zealand’s South Island – The trees around Arrowtown, Queenstown, and Lake Tekapo turn every shade of gold and red, with mountain backdrops creating jaw-dropping compositions.

 

 

 

 

Subjects That Pop in Autumn Photography

Autumn landscapes are more than just trees turning colour. Here’s what to focus on:

• Reflections – Lakes, rivers, and even puddles can double the intensity of autumn colours, creating beautifully symmetrical compositions.
• Fog & Mist – Autumn mornings often bring mist rolling through valleys and over water, adding drama and a soft, moody atmosphere to your images.
• Forests & Trails – Tree-lined roads and walking trails naturally create leading lines that draw the viewer’s eye into the frame.
• Rural Scenes – Farmhouses, old barns, and winding country roads become even more photogenic when surrounded by fiery autumn foliage.
• Wildlife – Animals are on the move in autumn, preparing for winter. Birds migrating, deer wandering through foggy fields, or even a lone kangaroo in an autumn-lit paddock can make for an incredible shot.

 

 

 

 

Essential Gear for Autumn Photography

Autumn conditions can be unpredictable—one minute it’s sunny, the next it’s drizzling and chilly. The right gear ensures you stay comfortable and get the best shots possible.

• Polarising Filter – Cuts glare, enhances colours, and makes the reds, oranges, and yellows really pop against blue skies or water surfaces.
• Tripod – Essential for long exposures, misty mornings, and low-light golden hours. It also helps when shooting reflections and waterfalls.
• Wide-Angle Lens – Perfect for capturing vast autumn landscapes and those sweeping valley views.
• Telephoto Lens – Great for isolating details like a single glowing tree in a dense forest or capturing distant wildlife.
• XT-801 Photography Gloves – Cold fingers? Not on our watch. These gloves keep your hands warm while still allowing you to adjust camera settings with precision, making them essential for crisp autumn mornings.
• HydroTred Waterproof Socks – Standing in wet grass or by a foggy lake shouldn’t mean soggy feet. These socks keep you dry and comfortable, no matter where your shots take you.
• Neo Lens Cloth – Autumn mist and lens smudges are real problems, especially in humid conditions. A high-quality lens cloth keeps your images crisp and free from unwanted streaks.
• Weather-Sealed Camera Bag – Protects your gear from unexpected rain showers and keeps your equipment organised while on the go.
• ND Filters – Essential for long exposure photography, helping you achieve silky smooth waterfalls and balanced exposures in bright conditions.

 

 

 

 

Bonus Tips for Killer Autumn Shots

• Golden Hour is Your Best Friend – The soft, warm light at sunrise and sunset enhances autumn colours beautifully.
• Use a Low ISO – To keep noise minimal and maintain rich, deep shadows.
• Shoot RAW – Gives you maximum control over colour adjustments in post-processing.
• Look for Contrast – A bright orange tree against a dark, stormy sky? That’s the money shot.
• Experiment with Composition – Leading lines, framing elements, and reflections can turn a simple shot into a masterpiece.
• Be Patient – Some of the best moments—like a sudden burst of morning light through misty trees—happen in a matter of seconds, so be ready!
• Scout Locations in Advance – Knowing where the best autumn foliage is at its peak will save you time and increase your chances of getting the perfect shot.
• Pack Spare Batteries & Memory Cards – Cold temperatures drain batteries faster, and you don’t want to run out of storage when the colours are at their best.

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

Autumn is fleeting, but the shots you capture will last a lifetime. With the right locations, subjects, and gear (don’t forget your XT-801 photography gloves and waterproof socks), you’ll be ready to make the most of this incredible season. Whether you’re exploring Australia’s alpine towns or heading overseas for that bucket-list autumn experience, there’s no better time to get out there and start shooting!

For more outdoor photography gear, tips, and guides, visit OTEX and make sure you’re equipped for your next adventure.

 

 

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