Camera Settings: f/2.8, 1/100, ISO 1600, lens 50mm compact macro

Welcome to the first day of Picture Fall. There is a lot to look forward to and a lot to anticipate this time of year, that's for sure! But, more than anything, we are going to spend the next 30 days enjoying the here and now with our cameras to help us stay focused (so to speak).

As we begin our journey, let's start with the most obvious symbol of the season, the fallen leaf. Not unlike the blooms of spring, the leaves of fall are uniquely compelling, each different in their own way. Spend some time studying the leaves that have already begun to fall and capture one that stirs your sense of the season.

Note: Who says you can't celebrate the gifts of the season by bringing them indoors. I often treat leaves like I would flowers by displaying them in our home. In vases, on tables and shelves, as centerpieces…and shooting bits and baubles of nature indoors can add something compelling and curious to an image. The curls and ruffles of the leaf above are highlighted perfectly against the starkness of my entryway table.

Please visit the classroom for more information, and to share your photographs in the gallery.