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Early morning canal photography along the Kennet and Avon Canal, one of many canals of the south, reveals a Newbury in autumn. Along the towpath I go, to lose my mind and find my soul. The walk started early, before sunrise and a little cooler this morning. A reminder that everyone needs a retreat, and this is mine. Sometimes as little as an hour or two is all you need for some perfect autumn photography.

Taken before sunrise, the canal water a blur thanks to the slow shutter speed required.

The first photograph was taken before sunrise, the canal water blurred thanks to the slow shutter speed required. Shot on the Canon EOS 5DSR with the 24-70mm, the reflection of the lock, bridge and boat yard were almost lost in that time.

The Kennet and Avon Canal After Sunrise

After sunrise the clouds vanish, leaving a magnificent burst of colour. The autumn colours in the next photograph reflect this brilliance in an abstract way — greens, yellows and bronze rippling in the canal waterway. Taking this image reminded me of an old saying, something like: “Look deep into nature and then you’ll understand everything better.”

Autumn foliage reflected in the canal water — greens, yellows and bronze rippling across the surface.

Before my autumn walk came to a striking and colourful end, I felt I had to capture the three barges with the sun striking the trees behind them, creating a wealth of autumn colour.

Three barges moored along the towpath as the autumn colour peaked around them.

The golden autumnal colours are brought to life on the water, with the scenery becoming even more spectacular. Take a walk this autumn and wake up to beautiful misty mornings, wandering the towpaths of the Kennet and Avon Canal, down leaf-covered paths to feel the magic of this time of year.

Capturing the Autumn Photography Essence of Newbury

1. Scenic Walks Along the Canal

Experience the enchantment of Newbury in autumn through leisurely walks along the picturesque canal. The vibrant hues of autumn leaves are not only reflected on the water’s surface but also create mesmerising compositions. The tranquility of the canal, coupled with rich, warm colours, offers a serene backdrop for capturing the essence of fall in every step. This slower way of walking a familiar route is something I’ve written about more generally in revisiting photography locations.

2. Sunrise and Sunset Shots

Newbury unfolds its autumn beauty during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The soft, warm light bathes the landscapes, casting a magical glow that enhances the autumnal colours. These moments present exceptional opportunities to capture the unique atmosphere and mood of Newbury in fall.

3. Framing the Locks and Bridges

The Kennet and Avon Canal in Newbury boasts charming locks and bridges that add architectural interest to the autumn scenery. Framing these elements against the backdrop of vibrant foliage creates stunning visual contrasts between man-made structure and the natural beauty of autumn leaves.

4. Wildlife Photography

Explore the flourishing wildlife that graces Newbury during autumn. Ducks, swans, and various waterfowl become more active, offering captivating subjects for the lens. See more of this side of my work on the Wildlife Photography hub.

5. Macro Photography

Delve into the intricate details of autumn leaves through macro photography. Zoom in on the veins, textures, and subtle patterns that tell the story of the season’s transformation — the hidden, often overlooked beauty of Newbury’s autumn charm.

The Kit

This walk was shot on the Canon EOS 5DSR with a 24-70mm EF L series lens — the same combination I later took to Norway’s fjords and glaciers. A tripod was essential here for the slow shutter speeds used in the pre-sunrise shots, where the canal water needed to blur into stillness.