M-109 view of D.H. Day Barn Farm (fall)

This image of D.H. Day Barn was taken along the M-109. Because the barn is within a private property, I stood on the grass inside Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park along the road. This spot is about 2.6 miles southwest of the town of Glen Arbor. I suggest starting there and then following the GPS coordinates through the park to get to this spot.

D.H. Day Barn is close to the water, so the leaves won't change until late October. To get the full effect of fall, I suggest visiting in the 3rd of 4th week of October.

Overcast conditions during the late-afternoon are best at this location if you want the colors of the trees to pop. Bright sun will drown out the colors and the light will be too harsh on the barn.

Make sure to capture enough images with different exposures. I used 3 images that were blended together in post-processing to get this final photo. To do this, I suggest using HDR EFEX Pro Nik Collection which will allow you to edit your images.

In order to get the compressed look, try using a telephoto lens between 200-300mm. This range of focal length will help to make it feel like you've brought the trees and the barn closer together.

Make sure to check the weather before going to this location. Calm conditions will work best here, as a lot of wind could change the composition of your shot.

Visit the famous Cherry Republic headquarters! Take home a slice of cherry pie or challenge a friend to the "spit pit" to see how far you can throw your cherry pits.

Within the park, you can drive along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. This route is open from April to November with views of the water and dunes.