Fall Photography
Follow the atmosphere and colors!
It is so special to be in the Chicago area during Fall. Practically makes Winter tolerable! It’s a good time to go for a walk, be outside, and take along your camera. Some years are “better” than others, photographically speaking, and sometimes the color show doesn’t last long. So, if you see something that looks appealing…don’t wait! Take the picture.
I’m gonna go out soon this year. The colors are getting ready to burst. And the air is crisp. I think that may give us a good opportunity for photos. Try it! And share ’em!
From the last year or two:
I really like this shot from the Ryerson Conservation Area…about 2 miles from our house. I was giving up on getting a shot I liked when I literally turned my head and saw this.
Ryerson Conservation Area
This photo was taken at the Chicago Botanic Garden during a pre-dawn shoot. I believe we got there about 5:50 and this shot was a bit before 6:30AM, that is! Can’t make it there when it’s offered this year…bummer. Here’s a secret—bring your tripod!! You’ll have to make looong exposures with such little light. But you’d be amazed at the nuances of color that appear.
Sunrise at the Garden
This shot was taken on the same day as the previous pre-dawn Garden photo. The other photographers (about 30) all started to leave. However, I saw this solitary woman sitting on the shore, musing. So I waited behind and got the shot.
More Sunrise at the Garden
A shot of the Japanese Garden also photographed at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Different time/day. Different feeling, too.
I love the story of this one: I was driving in my car with the sunroof open and these two leaves blew in and landed on the passenger seat. Out loud, I said to them, “You’re gonna be in a picture!” After dinner, I posed them in this still life in our dining room. Voilà!
Random Leaves
Here are some more…
Waterfall at the Garden
Grasses-Still Life
Daniel Wright Woods
At Gillson Park, Wilmette
-Stephen M. Levin
“My Mind’s Eye”
www.stephenmlevinphotos.com
Gorgeous reminder of what is coming. Autumn has long been my favorite season. The daily changes in the air and landscape are dramatic. So much to look at – watching the bird migrations and animal activity in our yard gives me the incentive to clean out closets, drawers and reorganize for our coming winter months. Fall clothes are also my favorites – light jackets and sweaters, draping scarves and beautiful boots (before the snow boots come out!).
Perfect description!
Couldn’t agree with Judy’s comment more! It’s a beautiful time of year! Love seeing those photos from last year’s sunrise shoot! Can that really have been a year ago?! I enjoy reading your blog and seeing what you are up to with your photography, Steve. You had some wonderful travels this summer. Hope to see you at the Garden soon!
Yes, that was a year ago. And this year’s it’s on this Saturday…!
Glad you like the blog. And I, yours! (Check Anne’s blog at: http://annebelmont.zenfolio.com/blog)
Anne–your flower and butterfly images are truly phenomenal!
Stephen,
You truly are a gifted photographer. Totally dedicated.
Thanks so much, Leonard. I appreciate your comments very much!
Ellen & I were at the Art Institute the other day and I found myself thinking of your work & commentaries – not so much in regard to the photography there but in regard to the oils & sculptures. Specifically, I thought about the role of light and of detailing. In these groups of photos, I see how important light & detailing is. I really have no idea how any of this works and can only appreciate.
Interesting observation, Dave.
I’ve read and heard may photographers (and other visual “artists”) say it’s all about the light. I’d say that “form” also fits into the equation.
Great example of someone who used light to perfection: The 17th Century Dutch painter, Johannes Vermeer.
Thx!
The botanic garden photos are truly other worldly Steve! Who would believe this is in Chicago? It’s all about the light and paying attention! Thanks so much for sharing these.Are they of the botanic gardens near you or in Lincoln Park?
Thanks, Marlan!
The images from the Garden are from the Chicago Botanic Garden…about 6 or 7 miles from our house. But you gave me an idea–I don’t think I’ve taken Fall shots at Lincoln Park recently! Maybe I’ll run down there…!!
As I was looking at how beautiful your pictures are I was thinking how come I never look at things like you do through your camera. Gorgeous!