Okay. It’s below freezing out. Icicles are hanging off the houses, snow is swirling around the trees, and you know what? It’s the perfect time for a winter photoshoot!
Maybe you’ve had a winter wedding planned for years. Or maybe you just got engaged during the chilly season. Whatever your reason, I’m here to tell you that winter photoshoots are just as beautiful as any other season — maybe more!
Believe it or not, I got married when it was below freezing. Yep. And guess what? I LOVE my snowy, winter outdoor photographs! Snow is a lot of fun, and it can have such a visually stunning effect.
Remember being a kid and waking up to the first big snow of the season? Something about it just makes you want to run outside and play! So, I want you to channel that beautiful backdrop, and childlike fun, playful energy into your winter photo session. This is your day — enjoy it!
The few small challenges that do exist when taking chilly-day photos can be overcome with some tips and advance planning. Here are a few ways to do that:
1. Don’t Forget To Move
I love to encourage my clients to move when we have a photo session! Besides making us warm, moving helps make us feel comfortable. So don’t just stand there, get moving! So, play your favorite Taylor Swift song and get dancing. Or maybe you want to try to catch snowflakes with your tongue, or even just rock each other back and forth. It’s all about what feels comfortable to you. I always suggest that my clients move in a way that makes them comfortable AND warm!
If you really wanted to break out your inner kid, you could try bundling up to make snow angels! It’s such a fun idea, especially for an engagement photoshoot where the outfits can get a little more casual. Or what about cuddling up on a toboggan? Making snow angels? Or building a snow family after a snowball fight? Remember, don’t forget to stay hydrated if you’re moving around a lot.
There are many fun ways to get moving and get beautiful shots. So I encourage you to explore your creative side!
If you’re a little apprehensive about jumping right into the snow, you can try something more low-key, like testing out a pair of wooden snowshoes or going for a wintery walk through the woods. It’s your day, and that’s all about staying warm and cozy!
2. Toss On Those Layers And Winter Accessories
If every kid’s favorite way to stay warm is by moving, every parent’s favorite way to stay warm is with LAYERS. Your mom was right when she sent you out the door dressed like a marshmallow! Your particular location might not be freezing, but preparing is always the best call. One doctor recommends three loose layers: a dry layer, an insulator layer, and a wind- and waterproof layer. Having lots of warm hats, mittens, scarves, blankets, and coats available keeps you prepared for sudden wind and flurries. And knowing that you’re prepared can help ease the stress and anxiety.
You may not wear mittens in real life much, but when you look back on the photos, you’ll find they look cozy and sweet and serve as a fun reminder of your special, chilly day. Plus, they’ll keep you warm out there, and warm means happy! I totally rocked blue wool ski socks and boots on my wedding day!
For engagement sessions, I love beanies, and cute coats. They add personality and warmth. Plus, you can choose to get a variety of shots, by shedding the layers. For a wedding shoot, what about a dramatic long coat or even a cape? I think, “Yes!”
Another warm idea: keep hand and foot warmers with you! So, you can break them out and stick them in your boots and mittens to keep your extremities warm.
3. Plan For Plenty Of Breaks At A Winter Photo Shoot
There’s no rule that says you have to get it all done in one shot! Plan out your photo session so that you have time to take breaks to warm up and sit down. Breaks are essential to your health when the weather is cold. One doctor recommends taking a break every 20-30 minutes when the weather is between 13 degrees and 31 degrees Fahrenheit. Hop in a car to warm up or if you’re not too far away from town, you could even dart out to warm up at lunch. Stopping to warm up doesn’t kill the vibe. It helps you feel more comfortable which makes you look more comfortable in your photos.
You can always bring a thermos full of decaf tea or cocoa to warm your hands and provide a nice treat for your chilly day! (But be careful, believe it or not, caffeine actually speeds up heat loss!)
If you don’t have a site planned yet, keep an eye on your warm-up options. You’ll want to seek a spot with an indoor space nearby to huddle up, or a handy place to park the car for warmth breaks. Of course, you’ll want to make sure you find a spot with good views!
Bonus tip: The timing of the shoot should be kept in mind, too. A late night or early morning shoot could get quite a bit colder than a 1 p.m. session!
Plan Ahead
Again, having the right layers, movement, and warmth breaks will be key in making cold temperatures cozy. But as always, it’s important to know your own limits, including age and underlying conditions. Make sure you’re not falling for any cold-weather myths, and remember that if the windchill temperature is below 13 degrees F, you should stay indoors. That’s why it’s not a bad idea to create a raincheck — “snowcheck” — indoor photo location in case the temperature drops too low.
When it comes to photoshoots, embrace the season (safely!). You’re capturing a very special moment in time, and looking back on those pictures in sweaty August will be such a fun treat. The air may be chilly, but you’ll always remember the warmth of time spent with loved ones!