Autumn Photography in Wānaka 

As autumn gradually transforms the Wānaka landscape, photographers can be found wandering by the lake, rivers and through native bush. With carpets and canopies of vibrant, rustic hues of yellow, red, and gold in every direction, the season offers endless opportunities to capture interpretations of this unique natural environment.

Wānaka’s landscape shifts with each autumn day, creating endless new perspectives for photographers. The same spot by the lake can tell a dozen different stories as the light changes, which is why so many of us find ourselves returning again and again with camera in hand. Around every corner, you’ll find a view that makes you pause, breathe, and reach for your camera.

Photography naturally encourages a more mindful approach to travel—taking time to observe the changing light, explore different perspectives, and connect with the landscape on a deeper level. By staying longer in Wānaka, photographers can truly appreciate the region’s beauty and embrace a more engaging, immersive experience.

On a still day by Lake Wānaka, the autumnal colours dance on the water’s surface. It is always exciting to explore new ways to see and capture boldly mirrored interpretations of autumn landscapes and the surrounding mountains.

Autumn’s atmospheric conditions, with cold overnight temperatures, often create misty mornings. Early morning photography sessions capture ever-evolving light conditions that enveloping mist creates and capture the ethereal autumnal landscapes.

In autumn, local patches of deciduous native forests are incredible places to witness the colours. The chaos of the forests is a photographic challenge that rewards those seeking unique compositions that capture more intimate expressions of the forest.

Lone trees in stunning landscapes are in generous supply here in Wānaka. A well-composed photograph of a solitary tree standing separately from the surrounding fiery foliage can create an impact with its bold simplicity.

Autumn is not just about the colour; the change in weather brings mood and dramatic light to our mountain backdrop. Being out at both ends of the day makes the most of the low angle of the autumn sun as it chases across the landscape.

For capturing beautiful autumnal reflections, Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea provide excellent opportunities to showcase bold autumn colours mirrored in the water with mountain vistas. Glendhu Bay is a great area to explore on an autumn morning.

Riverside trails (such as the Clutha and Hāwea trails) among the trees and native bush offer wonderful opportunities for ethereal autumnal landscape shots.

A quick walk from Wānaka’s iconic tree, Station Park provides a beautiful collection of trees that transform with rich colour in autumn.

The potential to create exceptional autumn photographs in Wānaka is remarkable. Here are top tips for shooting autumn in Wānaka:

1. Use the warm light at sunrise and sunset to enhance autumn colours
2. Find subjects with vibrant foliage against contrasting backgrounds
3. Play around with reflections in the lake to add depth to autumn photographs
4. Look up – in forest or woodland areas try shooting under the canopy looking up at the foliage using branches and tree trunks as leading lines
5. Capture the details, textures and patterns that tell the story of autumn, not just the big grand landscapes

To help you get the most from your autumn photography, Richard has created “A Guide to Autumn Photography.” This guide offers tips, tricks, and inspiration to help develop landscape photography skills in our region this autumn.

Download your free guide here

Wānaka is a truly special place for Richard, which is why he’s made it the location for his 5-day Autumn Masterclass Workshop run with New Zealand Photography Workshops. Based at Edgewater Hotel for 4-nights, the workshop allows participants time to truly engage with the landscape when the autumn colours are at their best.

With over 10 years of experience leading workshops in the region, Richard has revisited familiar locations countless times, getting to know all the best spots in autumn. He also offers tailored one-to-one 1-day experiences for guests seeking personal and artistic growth and deeper connection with our local landscapes.

Written by Richard Young