Video:How to Take an Autumn Photo That's Screensaver-Worthy

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Transcript:How to Take an Autumn Photo That's Screensaver-Worthy

Ever wonder how photographers get those gorgeous screen saver shots of brilliant autumn leaves and gold-washed landscapes? It's actually... fairly simple. Here are some tips to help you find the best way to tell your own story, frame by frame.

Lighting is Important for Autumn Photos

Great autumn photos convey a mood and, in photography, that mood is set with lighting. Autumn is a fantastic time to take advantage of a wide variety of lighting. There are misty mornings and overcast days, which also happen to be good for portrait shots. Then, there are early evenings with low-angle light, which are great for creating that golden autumnal glow. Consider the mood you are going for and choose your lighting accordingly.

Autumn Leaves are Standard Photo Subjects

When it comes to photo subjects, autumn is a season rife with photogenic possibilities--from fall foliage and richly colorful landscapes to harvest festivals and pumpkin patches. However, for that truly spectacular, screensaver-worthy shot, it's good to focus on the old autumn standbys, leaves and landscapes.

Apply Basic Photography Skills for the Best Shot

Speaking of focus, you do need to consider some technical stuff. When taking close-ups, be sure to juxtapose colors and frame the shot with the subject off-center. Play with your perspective by looking up at or down upon what your shooting. When photographing landscapes, take care that there aren't distracting elements, such as power lines or telephone poles. However, elements such as water, pathways, or wildlife, can add interest to a landscape photo.

These days, you don't necessarily have to use an expensive camera and a multitude of lenses to get a great shot. In fact, most cell phones are capable of taking fairly impressive pictures. However, sometimes even the best shots can use a little help through the magic of photo-editing software.Adjusting color saturation is a quick and simple way to bring out vibrant autumn colors. Even the simplest photo editing software usually includes a color saturation setting. But be careful to use this tool judiciously as it's easy to overdo it... unless, of course, that's the effect you're going for.

And, there you have it. If you keep a few basic things in mind, you might just become the Ansel Adams of screen saver snaps. I'm Jonathon Stewart with About.com.