Bring a tripod, and use either a cable release or the self-timer for sharp shots and longer exposures. A circular polarizer is especially useful in autumn because it can reduce glare on leaves and deepen colour. Wide-angle lenses are great for sweeping scenes, but a telephoto can isolate patches of colour, and a macro lens is excellent for close details like bark, wet leaves, or decay on the forest floor.

Golden hour at sunrise or sunset is often best for warm, directional light, but don’t ignore midday: a blue sky can contrast beautifully with bright reds and yellows.

Vantage point matters a lot. Try getting close, shooting from underneath trees, or finding foreground, midground, and background layers to add depth. Detail shots can also work very well: a single leaf, bark texture, or water droplets. Including a person can add scale and a clear point of interest.

Long exposures can be effective, especially with water, ice, or moving foliage. In Ontario, timing can vary, but one answer suggested many areas may peak early in September. Also watch for changing weather—fall colour with snow, streams, or ice can make especially striking images.