It is that time of the year when the leaves are turning colour. Who does not revel in that beauty? Who does not pull out his camera or cell phone to record this wonder of nature? And what is the most popular subject to photograph? Trees! But is everyone happy with the results? Here are some suggestions on varying your approach to give you a greater variety of images this fall.

1-_I7A0534 So begin by photographing the forest. Forests are best photographed not on bright sunny days, but when the day is overcast (as in this image) or there is a fine rain. Look for a focal point, one aspect that will draw the viewer's eye - in this example the lone red tree in a wall of golden yellow.

2-X_09_0009 Then look for a lone tree. Though this maple is at the forefront of a forest, its colour makes it appear to stand alone.

3-_I7A0358Walnut tree

Then concentrate on the details of certain trees. The large trunks of this walnut tree become the graphic subject.

4-_I7A0579 Then look for interesting individual branches. This branch of red maple leaves draws the viewer's eye, not only because of its colour, but also because of the shallow depth of field employed. The eye always focuses on the sharpest part of an image. The out-of-focus birches set the context of the forest but do not distract from the main subject.

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Start thinking smaller. Look for shrubs and smaller trees under the larger ones in the forest .

They are as interesting as the huge colouful maples, poplars, and birches.

6-_02A5966 Look for reflections of the autumn colours, especially on calm mornings.

This photo is a reflection of birch trees which I then flipped upside down - artistic licence.

7-_02A6099 Don't overlook the fallen leaves. Go for the details, the closeups.

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Look closely at your feet. The forest floor provides a plethora of possibilities to the observant photographer.

Besides all these colourful subjects, look for patterns on tree trunks and the variety of mushrooms growing.

This season comes and goes quickly, so get out, enjoy the atmosphere, breathe the cool air, and carry your camera.