All outdoor photographers are very aware of the fact that Mother Nature runs the show. No matter how carefully you've researched a location or how meticulously you've planned the shoot, anything can happen. Especially if you've traveled a great distance, you have no choice but to work with the hand you've been dealt.

What kind of photograph can you make given the particular conditions?

As we head into the autumn foliage season (which is, for many of us, is the Super Bowl of landscape photography), it's good to know how to call an audible that will still get you into the end zone.

I was fortunate to have called New Hampshire home for many years. New England is famous for its autumn foliage and the White Mountains are, in my opinion, one of the most magnificent places to view this annual spectacle. (I may not live there any longer but I would not miss it!) I've spent countless hours photographing the fiery landscape in all its glory - and through it all, I've had many a tussle with Mother Nature.

If you're preparing to photograph the colors of the season, here are three suggestions to help you level the playing field:

1) Plan, Plan, Plan

Know the area. Even if this will be your first time visiting, you can gather a wealth of information beforehand. Where specifically will the sun make its appearance and departure? How are the locations you want to shoot oriented to the light? Historically, what kind of temperatures and conditions can you expect? Give some thought to the kinds of images you might be able to make in a variety of weather events. And so on.

I always create a shot list based on what I know about the location, my objectives, and what I'm expecting from the forecast. It may end up tossed out the window, but the list will also keep you organized and help tremendously when it comes to the next point.

2) Be Prepared to Improvise

For example: you run into a persistently stubborn patch of cloudy skies. You may have to scrub your plans to capture colorful sunrises and/or sunsets. Now what? While it's disappointing to know you're not going to be able to create some of the images you had envisioned, this is where your advance planning - and prior experience - come in handy. How about swapping locations to take advantage of the diffused light? Maybe you were going to photograph a mountain panorama. Head to a waterfall instead! There's nothing better than cloudy skies when water is the subject. Or you could stick with the original location, but remove the flat sky from the equation. Switch to a telephoto lens and look for interesting macro compositions.

3) Precipitation is Not the Enemy

Autumn foliage is even more beautiful when it's wet. The colors are more saturated. When it begins to drizzle, don't head inside! Drizzly conditions often create low ceilings and - if you're near a lake or river - fog. Just remember to use a polarizer to remove glare from the leaves, and increase your exposure to ensure the fog is rendered properly. To keep errant droplets off the lens, use your hood. (I always have a collapsible umbrella on hand to further protect the front of the lens.) Check the lens often to make sure it's free of any water. If the skies really open up, you'll probably want to stop shooting - but unless it's a steady, hard rain, go for it. You'll be glad you did.

One more reason to embrace light precipitation: most of the "leaf peepers" will head inside. Tired of the crowds? You'll quickly enjoy much more solitude.

Be prepared so you can do your best improvisation regardless of what Mother Nature throws your way. The grand autumnal spectacle is only a few short weeks away!

 Will you be visiting New England to photograph the fall color? My guidebook, Autumn in New Hampshire's White Mountains, is a compilation of prime locations from which you can capture the stunning beauty for which the region is famous.

Find out how to get to each site (including both directions and coordinates), when you can expect the best light, nuances about the settings, and insider tips. Having this logistical information in hand will free you to focus on your creative vision and make successful images. It's available at Amazon.com. Follow the link to check it out.

Autumn in New Hampshire's White Mountains: The Photographer's Guide