December 13, 2019

Snowy Portraits? Yes, Please | Tips for Winter Photos

Winter is a wonderful time of year to create some pretty magical portraits in Upstate NY.

And it is often an overlooked season for portrait photography sessions.

Tips for Winter Photos
Bundle Up! Dressing warmly is key for great Winter Photos.

While I love the quality of light in the winter, many clients either simply do not think they can create outdoor portraits in the winter, or they are daunted by the cold.  Never fear–we’ve got you covered!  Below are some of our favorite Tips for Winter Photos to make your session successful and fun!

Tips for Winter Photos
How fun is this spontaneous picture of this beautiful couple walking near the park at night? Fur coat and boots for her, wool coat for him = warm subjects.

Winter Photos Tip No. 1:

Dress appropriately!  Warm clothing makes it soooo much more pleasant.  You don’t need to look dowdy or lumpy–there are plenty of great options out there in terms of boots, scarves and mittens that will enhance your look.

Winter wedding accessories
Cute boots will keep your feet warm in the snow.
Winter Engagement Photos Saratoga NY
Absolutely loved the warm clothing choices that Samantha and Michael used for their E-Session in Downtown Saratoga Springs.
Winter Senior Portraits Upstate NY
Bundle up! This was a fun coat and really warm too!

Winter Photos Tip No. 2:

Have a warm pitstop.  You can create some awesome portraits in unique public spaces.  Restaurants, hotel lobbies, even the local library are all great options for a short stop to warm up during your photo session.

What to do with your engagement photos
Love this portrait we made at The Berlin in Troy after we played outdoors.
Tips for Winter Photos
Love this Maternity Portrait in the snow. The location and the light were fabulous.

Winter Photos Tip No. 3:

Time of day is important.  While the sun is generally not as high over head during winter, it is still optimal to use the two hours before the sun sets for a portrait session.  That isn’t to say we can’t do some fabulous night shots as well.

Winter Dance Portrait
I normally don’t photograph by train tracks, but this line is no longer in use.
Maternity Winter Snow Portraits
Just my backyard, but the light was perfect.
Congress Park Winter Wedding Photo
Snowy winter evening in Saratoga Springs NY. How romantic!

Winter Engagement Photos

Tip No. 4:

Having a warm beverage can make it a little easier for everyone–or an adult cocktail at the end.

Winter Family Portraits Saratoga NY
Hot cocoa is essential. This was one of the coldest sessions I ever photographed.
Jack's Oyster House Engagement Photo Albany
Possibly one of my most favorite engagement photos ever. I just love the bar at Jack’s.

There you have it–some tips to create magical Winter Snow portraits.  Be bold and just do it!

Are you interested in having us photograph you in the snow?  Give us a call at (518) 584-4237 or use our Contact Form.

Did you enjoy our Tips for Winter Photos?  You might enjoy this post on planning your Photo Session.

Susan Blackburn is a Portrait Photographer serving Saratoga, Lake George, the Adirondacks and beyond.

 

 

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