Capturing the Magic of New England’s Fall Foliage
There’s something truly magical about fall in New England. Every year, as the temperature drops and the leaves start to turn, the region transforms into a photographer’s dream. If you’ve ever been to Vermont, New Hampshire, or the Berkshires in Massachusetts during this time, you know what I’m talking about—those rolling hills covered in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, set against a backdrop of crisp blue skies. It’s no wonder so many people flock here in the fall.
For me, as a photographer, New England’s autumn isn’t just about the scenery; it’s about capturing a feeling. There’s something nostalgic and timeless about walking through a forest filled with fallen leaves, or standing by a quiet lake reflecting a canopy of blazing maples. Fall photography is about more than just getting the “perfect shot”—it’s about telling a story of change, beauty, and resilience.
Frankenstein Cliff - Hart's Location, New Hampshire
One of my absolute favorite places for fall foliage photography is Frankenstein Cliff in Hart’s Location, New Hampshire. The cliff itself offers sweeping views of the surrounding forests, but what really makes this location special is the Frankenstein Trestle. This railroad bridge spans a massive 500-foot crevasse at a height of 80 feet, and the contrast between the rusted trestle and the vibrant autumn leaves is something I come back for every year.
The area is accessible via a few hiking trails, so it’s perfect for those who want to combine a bit of adventure with their fall photography. Whether you’re into landscape shots or looking to capture the human-made elements against the backdrop of fall foliage, this spot offers plenty of variety.
Pro photography tip: Try shooting at different times of the day to catch the sunlight filtering through the leaves and casting shadows on the trestle.
Fourth Iron Trestle - Crawford Notch, NH
Another gem in Hart’s Location is the Fourth Iron Trestle. This railroad bridge, built in 1906, crosses the Sawyer River and is easily accessible from Crawford Notch Road. What I love about this spot is how the old bridge feels like it’s being swallowed by the surrounding autumn landscape, with leaves creeping around its edges and the river adding a reflective element to the scene.
Whether you’re photographing the bridge itself or capturing the broader landscape, the contrast between the engineered structure and the wildness of the fall foliage makes for captivating images. There’s a parking area and a campsite nearby, so it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon there, experimenting with different angles and light conditions.
Pro photography tip: Focus on leading lines—like the bridge or the river—to draw viewers into your photo and create a sense of depth.
Wayside Grist Mill - Sudbury, Massachusetts
The Wayside Grist Mill in Sudbury, Massachusetts, is another location that’s perfect for capturing foliage pictures, and it’s rich in history. Built in 1929 under the direction of Henry Ford, this water-powered mill is still operational today. The mill itself is surrounded by trees that burst into color every fall, making it a dream location for both landscape and architectural photographers.
What makes the Wayside Grist Mill particularly special for me is the way it blends history and nature. The weathered stones of the mill, the flowing water, and the vibrant trees all combine to create a picture-perfect autumn scene. Whether you’re shooting close-ups of the mill’s details or wide shots of the landscape, this location offers plenty of opportunities for creativity.
Pro photography tip: Experiment with long exposure shots to capture the motion of the water flowing through the mill, with the foliage serving as a bright backdrop.
Letchworth State Park - Castile, New York
Last but not least, Letchworth State Park in Castile, New York, offers a completely different kind of foliage experience. Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," this park features deep gorges, dramatic waterfalls, and, of course, stunning autumn colors. Letchworth’s sweeping views of the Genesee River cutting through the landscape provide endless options for those of us who love capturing the grandeur of nature.
For urbex and landscape photographers alike, this location is a gem. The combination of rugged natural beauty and the vibrant fall colors creates an otherworldly atmosphere, perfect for both wide-angle and detailed shots.
Pro photography tip: Sunrise or sunset are the best times to visit, as the soft light enhances the colors of the leaves and the mist rising from the waterfalls adds an ethereal quality to your photos.
Final Thoughts
New England in the fall is a photographer’s paradise. But more than that, it’s a reminder of the beauty that exists in change. The trees, in their final burst of color before winter, show us that there’s something powerful in letting go and embracing the new. For me, capturing these moments with my camera is a way to hold onto that beauty, to tell the story of a season that’s as brief as it is stunning.
So whether you’re visiting New England this fall or just admiring the photos from afar, I hope my work inspires you to look a little closer, to slow down, and to appreciate the magic of the season.