Garfield Tot Lot in Prospect Park

This image was taken in the Garfield Tot Lot in Prospect Park, which is in Brooklyn. When you enter the park along the northwest side of Prospect Park West, you'll see a small children's playground at the intersection Garfield and Prospect Park West. Walk toward the lot and then while on the foot trail, face west and align your composition — taking into account the street lamp, path, and arching trees. By subway: - Closest station: Grand Army Plaza (2, 3, 4 Lines) - Head south on Prospect Park West

The Garfield Tot Lot in Prospect Park is beautiful in the autumn months when most of the leaves will have started to turn orange and red. Normally, the most ideal time for this is in mid to late November, but you can also photograph the leaves changing in October.

Visit this location during the late afternoon to capture the warm tones of the leaves. If you wait until twilight, the vibrancy of the trees will be dulled a bit by the blue tones of the sky.

This scene can be captured with many different lenses, but I used a 55mm to keep a balance between the lamppost, trees, and people walking through the frame.

Incorporating models in your shot will allow you to capture a more lifestyle-inspired photo. You can either bring along a few friends and have them walk along the path or wait until there are people passing by on a leisurely walk.

Align yourself so that you're at a slight angle. From a more angled perspective, you won't risk the trees blocking your models.

Prospect Park is one of Brooklyn's most popular attractions. Visit the Prospect Park Zoo, Prospect Park Lake, Brooklyn Botanic Gardens or the Brooklyn Museum.