A Cluster of Autumn

Remember mushroom season? I loved those woodland walks back in the autumn where everywhere you’d look there would be fungi. There is a unique satisfaction in spotting a pristine cluster like this, pushing its way through the pine needles and grass.

For this shot, getting down to eye level was key. Shooting from above often flattens the subject, but getting low (yes, knees in the damp grass!) gives the mushrooms stature and presence.

Editing Tip: If you are editing fungi in Snapseed, go easy on the Saturation. Instead, play with the Ambiance tool. It helps to balance the light between the shadows under the caps and the highlights on top, bringing out that lovely organic glow without making the colours look artificial. Sometimes some Glamour Glow can be nice too, but use with caution.