Autumn Colors Spread, Layers of Forest in Frame
As temperatures drop in autumn, the forests across Fanjingshan shift from green to yellow, then from yellow to red, with the layers of trees gradually taking on color. Different altitudes and different tree species change color at different times, and the overall process lasts for a period, so there is no need to worry about missing a single day. The interwoven red, yellow and green of the mountain scenery is a common subject for autumn photography.
Viewing and shooting locations can be arranged in several categories: climbing high and gazing into the distance lets you best feel the layers and grandeur of the forest dyed in color; walking slowly along the trails lets you closely observe the changing colors of branches and leaves set against the rocks; if you encounter a clear morning with a sea of clouds, the colorful forest and the cloud sea framed together have a charm all their own. With crisp autumn air, it is a good time to enter the park early and stroll slowly; the soft light of the morning is best for sightseeing and photography.
Must-Shoot Spots and Choosing the Light
At Hongyun Golden Summit you can shoot upward at the steepness of the lone peak soaring into the sky, or photograph the twin peaks and the sky bridge from the viewing platform on the opposite side; at Mushroom Rock, shoot in side backlight to capture the layered rock slabs and highlight the peculiar shape that is large on top and small below; from Old Golden Summit, climb high to look down over the mountains and the sea of clouds, where the light at sunrise and sunset is best; the sea of clouds appears most easily after rain when the sky first clears, and in the early morning, and shooting through the ridges and peak forests gives clear layering.
- Light is soft in the early morning and at dusk, with fewer visitors, making it the best time for good shots.
- A sea of clouds is likely when the sky first clears after rain, a classic scene of Fanjingshan.
- At noon the light is harsh; you can shoot the texture of the rock formations or use tree shadows for composition.
- Check sunrise and sunset times in advance and arrive early to choose your spot; the sea of clouds is changeable, so wait patiently, take more shots, and watch your exposure.
Carrying Equipment and Shooting Preparation
Carry equipment as needed, favoring light and practical gear. A wide-angle lens captures the sea of clouds and the grand scenes of peak forests, while a medium-to-long telephoto compresses the layers; a tripod is essential for sunrise and slow-shutter shots and is also handy for group photos; bring extra batteries and memory cards, as cold temperatures drain power quickly and supplies on the mountain are inconvenient; filters such as a polarizer and graduated filter can improve the rendering of sky and water. Use soft methods for filling light on people, avoiding harsh light that ruins the image.
Mountain areas are rainy and foggy, so prepare rain covers and lens cloths and wipe away moisture promptly; in low temperatures keep batteries warm close to your body and store them properly after shooting to prevent condensation. It is windy and slippery, so guard against equipment slipping and falling. A good photo is seven parts preparation and three parts luck; do your homework well, and the sea of clouds and sunrise will find their way into your frame.
Staying Warm, Preventing Slips, and Avoiding Peak Times
In autumn the temperature difference on the mountain is large and it is cold morning and evening; the mountain is cold and windy, colder still at dawn and dusk, so please prepare warm clothing and bring a jacket. Viewing spots are crowded, so watch your footing and the railings when composing shots, and do not cross the edges of restricted areas; stand firm and hold on where it is slippery, with safety first. Travel outside peak times and go with companions, book in advance, as weekends in high season are busier. Autumn colors are affected by the climate of the year, and conditions on the ground prevail; care for the plants and do not pick branches or leaves, so that the beautiful scenery is left for more people to enjoy.