Late autumn often brings the best kind of light for photography — low, soft, and full of warm color. During one of my short cycling trips, I noticed three roe deer standing in a freshly ploughed field. The sun was setting, and the orange tones of the soil and the trees in the background created a beautiful golden hour atmosphere. It was one of those moments when everything aligns into a simple but effective wildlife composition.

The deer didn’t seem too disturbed by my presence. One was resting while the other two watched cautiously, perfectly still in the fading light. I had just enough time to stop, grab my camera, and wait for the right moment — when the warm sunlight washed evenly over the scene. Encounters like this are often brief, but they reward patience, quiet observation, and a bit of luck.

From a photography standpoint, this shot was all about timing and direction of light. I took the photo about an hour before sunset, when the sun was still low but bright enough to bring out texture and color in the field. I exposed for the highlights to preserve detail in the bright areas of the fur and soil, allowing the shadows to fall naturally for depth and contrast.

In post-processing, I made only minor edits. I slightly reduced the color temperature to keep the tones believable — golden hour light can easily become too orange if left untouched. A small contrast boost and gentle sharpening helped the details stand out without losing the natural atmosphere.

For anyone who enjoys cycling and photography, moments like this are a great reminder to always keep a camera within reach. Wildlife can appear anywhere — even close to villages, roads, or open fields. Early morning and late afternoon rides are perfect for capturing this kind of light and mood. You don’t always need a long lens or complex gear; sometimes, it’s just about being in the right place at the right time.

If you enjoy combining photography with short trips or cycling routes, check out my other posts about golden hour and wildlife photography. Feel free to share your own experiences or questions in the comments below.