Last leaves of Autumn

Autumn is closing down: the last leaves are blowing off the best trees. There was time for one final shoot last weekend – partly in Stowe gardens and partly in my own garden where we are really lucky to have a Ginkgo tree.

But before the images a big ‘thank-you’ to all of you who have visited this blog through the Autumn and especially those who commented – your thoughts and comments are always appreciated. I’ve learnt, seen, and read a lot in recent weeks from so many of you so it was good to give something back last week by talking about Mirror lenses (if you missed that post, go back two posts to Mirroring Autumn).

Now for today’s images. First, the Ginkgo Biloba – a tall non-symmetrical tree that started life in the hands of my wife’s Uncle who brought the seed back from Japan about 35 years, and presented us with a tiny sapling that he had grown and nurtured.

Ginkgo Biloba leaves - click to enlarge

It has now grown as tall as the house! In Autumn it’s a blaze of yellow to rival anything else. Not easy to photograph up close due to the way the leaves are arranged. But at this time of year a little gardening of the fragile leaves can help the composition by creating a line of leaves occupying the same plane.

Ginkgo leaf - click to enlarge

Second, a trip back to Stowe with only my Mirror lens. I find taking just the one lens, especially that one with its idiosyncrasies, concentrates the mind (and stops one having to change all the settings repeatedly, or forgetting!). Metering can be tricky with the Mirror, so I always take a preliminary shot and check the histogram and adjust the speed and/or ISO until it’s right. Then assuming I’m seeking similar shots, and the sun stays out, I’m usually set for the next hour or so.

Here are two shots of Sweet Chestnut leaves: standing well back but aiming high into the canopy from a slope.

Sweet Chestnut leaves (1) - click to enlarge

Sweet Chestnut leaves (2) - click to enlarge

These are large leaves, usually in variegated bunches as Autumn progresses.  I can’t  which one I like best. Over to you…