Another absolute gem nestled in the scenic Finger Lakes region of New York is Robert H. Treman State Park. After the unexpectedly early closing of The Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park, MrsFaceless and I needed something to fill the remainder of our pre-booked three days in the area. When we had set about planning a photograhy roadtrip, Robert H. Treman State Park had popped up as a possibility, being renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, cascading waterfalls and lush woodlands. With a variety of trails that meander through stunning gorges and vibrant ecosystems, the park offers endless opportunities for capturing the natural beauty that changes with the seasons. With this being the height of autumn, we were hoping for a tapestry of rich, fall colours.
Overview of Robert H. Treman State Park
History and Significance
Established in the 1920s, the park is named after Robert H. Treman, a local entrepreneur who was pivotal in its creation. The park has a rich history tied to both the natural beauty of the area and the legacy of the Treman family, who sought to preserve this stunning landscape for future generations. Today, visitors can relish not only in its beauty but also in the stories of its past, making it a perfect backdrop for both photography and exploration.
Geographical Features
The park spans over 1,100 acres, featuring rough-hewn gorges, lush forests and an impressive collection of cascading waterfalls. The dramatic cliffs, carved by glacial activity, create a stunning contrast against the vibrant greenery and colourful flora. The centerpiece is the 115-foot tall Lucifer Falls, which demands attention from every angle. With trails that meander alongside the water’s edge, photographers have ample opportunities to capture both sweeping landscapes and intimate close-ups of nature’s finest details.
Enfield Falls Mill
Robert H. Treman State Park also boasts an historic mill. The Enfield Falls Mill is an historic grist mill and former millowner’s residence that harks back to the industrial past. Built in 1839 by Jared Treman, this mill was a vital part of the local economy, grinding buckwheat, wheat and coarser grains with its three runs of stones. The mill remained in operation until 1917, a few years before the land was donated to the state and transformed into a public park. Sadly, no waterwheel, but the building remains and when open it is possible to view the wooden mechanical gearing that was driven by the flow of the nearby Enfield Creek.
Best Photography Locations Within The Park
Waterfalls
Waterfalls are the rock stars of Robert H. Treman State Park and it’s not hard to see why. With Lucifer Falls taking center stage, other charming cascades like Lower Falls and Founders Falls play supporting roles that are equally photogenic. Each fall offers unique perspectives as the water tumbles over rocks, ideal for long exposure shots that bring out that dreamy, silky effect every photographer craves.
Gorge Trail
The Gorge Trail here (yes, they all seems to be called Gorge Trails in this area!!) is like nature’s own catwalk, showcasing the park’s rugged beauty. As you hike along the paths, you’ll find countless opportunities for amazing shots. The meandering trails lead you past breathtaking views of the gorge, rock formations and various flora and fauna. Perfect for capturing both the grandeur and the details of this stunning landscape.
Overlook Points
Perched above the gorge are several overlook points that give you a bird’s-eye view of the park’s splendour. These vantage points are good for shots that capture the expansive beauty of the area. If you want more dramatic shots then expect to hike just a little further. The marginal effort is so worth it though! The views can be especially dramatic, showcasing the interplay of light and shadow as the sun dips below the horizon, so don’t forget to time your visit for sunset.
Fall: Autumn Colors
Autumn at Robert H. Treman State Park is like nature deciding to host a grand colour party. As the leaves turn fiery reds, oranges and yellows, photographers can capture the breathtaking fall foliage against the rugged landscapes. The reflections in the water add an extra layer of visual delight, making fall one of the most popular seasons for photography in the park. What really adds to this, in our opinion, are the stone stairs and walkways throughout the Gorge Trail.
Capturing Scenic Landscapes in Autumn
Understanding Composition in Autumn Scenes
To ensure your photos stand out, composition is key when it comes to landscape photography. Use the rule of thirds to guide your framing, placing points of interest off-center for a more dynamic look. Leading lines, such as winding roads or rivers, can draw the viewer’s eye into the frame. Know your camera. Understand metering modes, ISO, aperture and shutter speed to gives your image a good exposure. Know how to get sharp photos. If you’re on a tripod think about bracketing exposures for hdr to gather all of the dynamic range information on your sensor. If taking a photo handheld then read up on the reciprocal rule. For longer shutter speeds think about essential filters for landscape photography compositions.
Experiment
And don’t shy away from experimenting. Try shooting during different times of day to capture varied lighting. Changing orientation between portrait vs landscape allows for perfect framing of differing compositions. Remember, it’s not just about what you’re photographing, it’s how you photograph it to create dramatic landscape photographs!
Utilizing Natural Light
Natural lighting is like the magic wand of photography, so wave it at your subjects and make them transform! As already mentioned, early mornings and late afternoons, known as the golden hour, are ideal for capturing the enchanting glow on the landscape. Overcast days can be just as great, softening shadows and bringing out the colours. Just avoid harsh midday sun unless you enjoy blown out highlights and squinty faces. Keep an eye on the weather.
Textures and Details
Autumn brings new textures to the landscape as its surfaces start to dry and crinkle, highlighting details that might go unnoticed in other seasons. The contrast between the lush vegetation and that which is dying off for winter creates a stark contrast in texture as well as colour. Remember to get low and focus on those details. The small things often have the biggest impact!
Incorporating Surrounding Nature
The surrounding landscape is an essential part of the overall aesthetic with landscape photography. Robert H. Treman State Park has an abundance of stone walls, paths and jagged rocky features. Mix these with running water and fiery foliage to bring the scene to the next level. Frame your shots to include these elements
Popular Hiking Routes
The park is home to several stunning trails that offer fantastic photography opportunities. The Rim Trail delivers breathtaking views of the gorges and waterfalls, while the Gorge Trail takes you right alongside those picturesque cascades. Be sure to check out the beautiful Enfield Falls and the lesser-known Buttermilk Falls for some extra photo treasures!
Trail Difficulty and Safety Tips
Not all trails are created equal. Some can be a bit of a workout! The Gorge Trail is more accessible, while the Rim Trail has some steeper spots that may require a bit of perseverance (and maybe a protein bar for fuel). To stay safe, wear sturdy shoes, and always stay on marked paths. It’s a park, not an extreme sports course!
Tips for Taking Stunning Autumn Images
Autumn portraits can be magical. But capturing that magic requires some nifty tricks.
Selecting the Right Backgrounds
When choosing backgrounds for autumn portraits, look for contrasting elements. The ruggedness of the stone bridge paired with the glow of golden foliage makes for a striking combination. Look around you for additional components as these can help your subject stand out against the landscape. Don’t shy away from experimenting. Sometimes the quirkiest locations yield the most memorable shots!
Adjusting Settings for Low Light
Shooting in a gorge means severely limited light and a gloomier results, which means you’ll need to adjust your camera settings accordingly. Increase your ISO to capture more light, but keep an eye out for noise. A wider aperture (smaller f-stop number) can help as well, allowing more light in while creating a lovely background blur. If you’re battling low light, don’t forget to balance with a slower shutter speed; just make sure your subjects are still for a moment.
Post-Processing Fall Photographs
After capturing that fall magic, it’s time to bring your photos to life in the editing room.
Paid Or Free Software
By all means, pay for the photo editing software of your choice. MrsFaceless and I use a mix of paid and free software from an old version of Photoshop, Topaz DeNoise, Photomatix, Darktable and Gimp. The majority of our editing is now done in Darktable.
Basic Editing Techniques
Once you’ve snapped that perfect shot, it’s time to give it a little TLC in post-processing. Start with basic adjustments. Tweak the exposure, contrast and white balance to make your photos sparkle. Cropping can also help you refine your composition, so don’t hesitate to trim the edges if it means a more impactful image.
Enhancing Colours and Contrast
Autumn photographs should not have muted colours. To give your images a new lease on life, increase the contrast and saturation/vibrance (slightly) to accentuate the reds and golds. A little tweaking goes a long way. Just avoid the temptation to go overboard, or you might end up with a photo that looks like it belongs in a cartoon!
Creating a Fall Mood in Edits
To evoke that cozy, autumnal vibe, try adding a golden tone to your images. This will enhance the feeling that the natural fall colours brings. You may also want to play with a vignette effect to draw focus toward the center of your photograph.
Encouraging Conservation and Respect for Nature
Lastly, while you’re out there snapping away, remember that the beauty is best enjoyed responsibly. Stick to trails, respect wildlife and leave no trace behind. Your stunning photos not only capture the beauty of nature, but also serve as a reminder that we must protect these precious environments for future generations. So go ahead, unleash your inner photographer, but let’s keep those landscapes looking pristine!
Conclusion: The Beauty of Robert H. Treman State Park
Recap of Photographic Opportunities
With breathtaking landscapes, Robert H. Treman State Park is a photographer’s paradise. With its diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas, there’s no shortage of subjects that will make your camera sing. This State Park stands as a remarkable destination for photographers of all levels, offering an abundance of stunning vistas and diverse wildlife. By exploring the park’s trails, keeping an eye on seasonal changes, and utilizing the tips provided, you can capture the essence of this beautiful location. Whether you’re aiming to create lasting memories or stunning visuals, the park’s natural beauty is sure to inspire and delight. Plan your visit, bring your camera, and immerse yourself in the photographic wonders that await your visit. Whisper it quietly, but MrsFaceless and I thought that Robert H. Treman State Park was better than Watkins Glen State Park. Just don’t tell everyone!