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Very often , when I post photos of working outdoors, I am asked what equipment I use for pastel painting.

After much trial and error, I am now using an All-in-One easel.

However, I will share what other set ups I have used over the years...which also worked for me.
I thought I would share these, as Plein air painting is not for everyone, and there is quite a bit of expense involved for the better choices. So, there are ways to try it, without a big commitment.
When I first started taking my pastels out doors,
I had a very simple lightweight aluminum easel.
I would use a camp stool, that folded up small, and easy to transport..
I had a couple of boxes of pastels at the time., which I would simply place on the ground.
Very rudimentary.

I then graduated to placing my pastels in Art Bins for pastel. I had a box for my cool colors, and one for warm. These, I also placed around me on the ground ...kind of like a color wheel!

IMost of the time I work standing...which I recommend, and prefer...so I Have taken a French easel out. The half box is not as heavy or unwieldy as the full size. I then used a Dakota bow, which opened out , and went on the drawer that I pulled out .I was still all rather heavy, and these days I want to go lighter.

The All-in -One is light...and I use a Sienna tripod with it.
Simply google the easel, and you will see the boxes.
It does NOT comfortable accommodate the larger pastels such as Unison, and Mt. Visions.
So, I usually clip an extra box of colors on the sides with clips from the hardware store.

Cost, weight, and whether one works seated or standing are all factors to consider.
So, make sure you do your research, and go for it!

For the past several days, I have been able to get out and enjoy the kaleidoscope of autumn color on the East coast. I grew up in theNortheast, and know that it is a special place, and glorious time of year.
Even better, I have been visiting loved ones, and enjoying the show with them.
On several occasions, I have been taking my pastels out right in the midst of the crackling , falling, and burnished leaves.
Am I producing masterworks?

No.
But it doesn't matter. A gem will come, and even more important, the observations will stay with me.
When I get back in the studio with my Plein air studies, the resulting work will be with a better understanding of color relationships, edges, value patterns, and the nuances that make up the autumn landscape.

Priceless!

Going to a different locale where there is a marked season change is a refreshing reminder about the little things.
Leaves and acorns underfoot, the crisp air, and the bite of an apple just off of the tree...so nice.

For me , that means a completely different palette .
When I remembered brilliant autumn leaves, I recall the full glory.
Actually gazing at a changing tree, I see the beautiful transitions from warm greens, to golds, to oranges, and the surrounding muted colors that make for the brilliance.
Even the dried brown leaves, due to some drought make the other colors sing.

All the more reason to get out there, and look!
Even when shivering in the cool temps, ( this Arizonan is thin blooded! ) it is a joy.