Why We're Falling in Love with Winter Engagement Photos

When we think of winter, the first thing that comes to mind is snow, especially here in the Midwest. The first snow fall is magical. We literally get to walk through a “winter wonderland,” and it’s not fake snow like it is in California! Since we live in the Midwest, we experience all four seasons and as a photographer, I love to take advantage of that! Think of all the possibilities that the winter scenery can add to just one photo, alone. Whether you are after a wooded area with snow on the branches, downtown light displays, or a holiday-themed background, the options are truly endless!

However, winter also equals cold weather—some are hesitant or find it worrisome that it may not be enjoyable to shoot photos in the winter. Fortunately, there are a few tricks to capturing winter engagement sessions that I have found worked in the past, which makes it bearable and enjoyable for couples. If your photographer is willing, set aside one or two potential dates for your session. This way, you can determine when that day comes (since winter is rather unpredictable) which date will work best to create your winter scene. The first date may be unbearably cold with extreme windchill which is never fun. Plus, you may resemble everyone's favorite red-nosed reindeer and your cheeks may show up in photos as dark red. With a potential backup date scheduled, you can decide to reschedule to a hopefully better date! That second date may be a day that’s not as cold with a gorgeous blanket of snow on the ground, and it’ll be much more enjoyable! That emotion makes for MUCH better photos!

Another tip is to bundle up with scarves, boots, sweaters, mittens and blankets! Pick up some personal hand warmers, which are easily hidden in your mittens. Scarves will keep your neck warm, as well as add a great pop of color. You can also hide leg warmers or thick wool socks under your pants. Flannels and cable knit blankets provide warmth and can double as a great photo prop. If you don’t want the blanket and these accessories in all the photos, at the very least, you can bundle up in them as you walk around to find different spots, and take them off right before the photo. Just make sure all of these props and accessories match! Also, do not wear white! White blends right in with snow, but the color would look great against a dark background. For example, an evergreen tree! Lastly, if your photographer is flexible, allow some extra time to go in a warm building or in a warm car and take tiny breaks to warm up again and chat about your wedding or what you’re doing for the holidays! It creates a fun atmosphere between the client and the photographer , and also makes this session enjoyable despite the cold weather!

Fun ideas? Wrap yourself up in a blanket! Grab a mistletoe and hang it above as you kiss! Snowball fight? Why not? (Seriously though, throwing snow in the air makes for a cool effect). If you’re coffee lovers, cozy up in a coffee shop. Discuss with your photographer and create a session that expresses who you are and incorporate holiday traditions/dates. If you always go ice skating every year, lace those skates up and find a rink! There is something very poetic about photos taken in the winter time, so tell your love story in the most magical time of the year.

Laura Duholm is a Minnesota-based photographer who launched Laura Ann Photography in 2010.