Autumn Leaf Macro Photography – Stained Glass and Silence

The beauty of autumn leaf macro photography lies not in wide landscapes but in the quiet geometry of transition, where color, texture, and decay meet.
This gallery focuses entirely on the intimate moments of transition:
the fractal patterns of changing leaves, the delicate geometry of seed pods, and the quiet signs of life preparing for winter.
I invite you to slow down and experience the complexity of the season, moving from the boldest hues to deeper textural moments.
For a look back at a previous exploration of this subject, visit my 2013 Fall Foliage gallery.

I. The Color Overture – Early Autumn Leaf Macro Photography

The collection begins with the season’s brightest notes, showcasing the most vibrant reds and oranges that command attention.

autumn leaf macro photography of red maple leaf
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II. Anatomy of Autumn

A deep dive into the intricate patterns, textures, and geometry of plant life, focusing on unique forms and abstract details.

III. The Final Act & Reflection

The concluding chapter, capturing the cooling mood, the feeling of the wider scene, and a contemplative finish.

autumn leaf macro photography
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© 2025 Kevin Hartnell – All images photographed in Cincinnati, Ohio, capturing autumn’s final hues before winter’s inevitable arrival.
Learn more about how leaf color changes each year from the US Forest Service.