VIEWING TIPS
Before heading out to see the beautiful fall foliage Connecticut has to offer, there
are a few questions you should ask: Where should I go to see the best fall foliage?
What type of camera should I use? Is there anything else I should know? Following
are tips and guidelines that we have gathered to make your fall foliage excursion
the best possible experience:
- Before heading out, be sure to make your overnight reservations. During this time
of year, inns and bed & breakfast's book-up fast, so it's better to plan ahead.
Some lodging establishments may require a two night minimum stay.
- Going midweek has more lodging availability. Even more importantly, there will be
fewer people around so that you can take more time to enjoy the sights.
- Locals are the authorities on great off the beaten path spots to seek out. Find
someone walking down the street or who works in a general store. Ask them about
their favorite places to take a picture.
- Taking pictures of simple objects such as a single tree in front of a white picket
fence is more interesting to the eye than a panorama of color. The distant shots
are great but be sure to capture the more personal scenic study as well.
- Using a high quality digital camera or a newer smartphone with a camera will help you to capture the moments better.
If you have a polarizing filter for your camera, this will help bring the colors
to life. Morning and late afternoon light often produces excellent results. Overcast
days can cause colors to emerge more clearly through indirect light.
- Seeing the differences the span of a day makes in one particular spot can bring
new meaning to your day. If you've stopped somewhere to take shots in the morning
light, stop again in the afternoon to see how the play of light has changed.
- Recording video has become popular during this time of year. Be sure to share your video on YouTube or other social video sites. If you are really serious, bring your tripod and a spare battery so that you can get a good steady pan of the area. Remember that zooming can distort the picture and the adjusting the camera goes through can be distracting.
- If you have binoculars, bring them. Spotting wildlife in the distance is a pastime
of many of our visitors.
- Be aware of animals crossing the road by driving slowly and being alert. Don't forget
to respect the locals. Always let them pass you by pulling over if need be.
- Be respectful of the wildlife by refraining from feeding or provoking them. Use
the buddy system when hiking.
- Prepare for the weather. Bring a jacket and adaptable clothing.
- Consider packing a cooler. Picnics and snacks are that much more enjoyable in the
fresh air and sunshine, surrounded by the beautiful fall foliage.
- Don't worry about missing "peak" color. You will still be able to enjoy a full array
of colors that can be found before "peak".
- Check out Connecticut's Official Tourism website, CTvisit.com, for travel deals and events to help plan your fall getaway
- For additional Connecticut fall foliage information, visit Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection.
