There’s something about the forest in the fall. The air feels a little crisper, the light hits differently, and every scene seems like it’s waiting to tell a story. Armed with my Canon R5 and the RF800mm f/11 lens, I recently set out on a forest walk, hoping to capture that unique autumnal charm. Spoiler alert: the forest didn’t disappoint.
Here’s a peek at some of the highlights from that day, along with a few thoughts on the experience of shooting with this setup.
The Magic of Tight Perspectives
The first image I captured shows a black bird nestled inside the hollow of an old tree. It’s a perfect example of why I adore the RF800mm lens. The reach of this lens allowed me to zoom in and frame the bird in a way that almost makes the tree seem alive, like it’s guarding its little feathered tenant. The compressed perspective isolates the subject beautifully, emphasizing the textures of the bark and the bird’s delicate form.
This lens, while being a fixed f/11, isn’t a dealbreaker if you work with good light (and thankfully, I had plenty that day). It felt like nature’s own spotlight was helping me out!
Songbirds and Simplicity
As I wandered further into the woods, a great tit perched perfectly on a budding branch. Its striking yellow and black feathers stood out against the soft blue background. At 800mm, the bird fills just enough of the frame to command attention while leaving space to appreciate the hints of spring yet to come in the buds.
This is where the Canon R5 shines. The autofocus locked onto the bird effortlessly, tracking its tiny movements with precision. It’s a moment that might have been fleeting without the R5’s animal-detection AF.
The Quiet Elegance of Sparrows
Not all wildlife shots have to be about bold colors or dramatic poses. Sometimes, it’s the muted tones of a simple sparrow that can convey so much about the forest’s mood. This little bird blended into its surroundings with a quiet grace, perched on a branch dotted with new buds.
While others might overlook this humble bird, the RF800mm’s reach allowed me to bring out the details of its feathers and the soft texture of the budding branches. It’s a reminder that beauty often lies in the details you don’t see unless you’re looking for them.
From Birds to Boats
The shift from woodland wildlife to a shot of a boat might seem abrupt, but that’s the joy of photography—it lets you find unexpected subjects. A boat’s bow, complete with symmetrical anchors and reflected water ripples, was a stark contrast to the organic beauty of the forest. The Canon R5 captured every texture in the metal and every subtle tone in the water. This wasn’t just a subject shift; it was a visual palette cleanser.
Pathways to Tranquility
Finally, my walk ended with a classic forest path, framed by trees reaching up to a clear sky. These shots capture the essence of what fall feels like: a mix of light and shadow, a reminder of endings and beginnings. The R5’s dynamic range pulled out every ounce of detail, from the deep shadows between the trees to the highlights in the sunlit foliage.
One of these shots had a slightly darker, moodier feel, while the other embraced the light. I found both equally compelling, like two different sides of the same story.
Why This Setup Works for Fall Walks
The Canon R5: Simply put, this camera delivers. The 45MP sensor picks up every detail, and the autofocus system is so good it feels like cheating. Even when shooting handheld with the RF800mm, the in-body stabilization paired with the lens made it easy to keep my shots sharp.
The RF800mm f/11: It’s not a lens for every occasion, but when it shines, it really shines. Lightweight for its focal length and surprisingly versatile, it’s a joy to carry on nature walks. Sure, you’re working with f/11, but if you plan your shots and embrace the light, it’s a creative powerhouse.
Final Thoughts
This walk reminded me why I love photography. It’s not just about capturing the big, bold moments but also about finding beauty in the everyday. Whether it’s a bird, a tree, or a quiet forest path, every frame has the potential to tell a story.
If you’re ever on the fence about taking your gear out for a fall walk, here’s your sign to go for it. Trust me, nature always has something worth capturing. And if you’ve got an RF800mm in your kit, don’t hesitate to bring it along—it might just surprise you.
What do you love photographing in the fall? Drop your thoughts (or your shots!) in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to keep exploring!
Captured with: Canon EOS R5 and RF800 F11 lens | Edited using: Lightroom & Skylum Luminar AI
All photos are my own work. For more details, visit my website or explore my links.
Curious about the gear I use? Check it all out here.
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