Unless you really like the wintertime, it probably isn’t the first season that comes to mind when you think of outdoor photos. The thing is, winter is a gorgeous time of year to do exactly that! The fresh air, crisp snow, and the bright atmosphere bring a refreshing vibe to photography. Don’t let the weather turn you away, here’s how you can beat the cold and enjoy the experience of winter photos.

Dress Warmly

This sounds like a given, but sometimes we forget how cold the winter can really be. The best thing you can do for yourself for winter photos is to make sure you have layers to your outfit. Start with a base layer, and then add to it. Things like jackets, coats, and extra socks can make a huge difference for how long you can stay outside.

This doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style for warmth, the extra layers that you bring along with you can always be taken off! Prepare to have them available for the moments in between when the photos are taken. Additionally, wearing clothing that contrasts with the environment will really help to make your photos pop! Staying away from lighter colors is the way to go in the winter.

Have Fun Accessories

To go along with the time of year, you can plan to wear fun accessories with your outfit. Items like beanies (without big logos), earmuffs, mittens/gloves, and umbrellas (if it’s raining or snowing) are great additions to any winter outfit you could think of, and they will definitely keep you warmer!

Have an Extra Change of Clothes for the Drive Home

I don’t know about you, but I love warming up in the car after being chilly outside. To make this experience even better after your winter photos, bring along an extra warm and comfy set of clothes for your drive home. My personal go-to is a pair of sweats, fuzzy socks, and a hoodie to make sure I’m super cozy for the drive.

Along with your drive, make sure you bring extra socks! If there’s snow outside, there’s always a risk that your socks will get wet if you’re wearing them, so be prepared and have another set ready if this does happen.

Bring Hand Warmers

Hand warmers: you know them, you love them, and you especially appreciate them when you’re outside in the winter. Hand warmers are an inexpensive way to make sure your digits stay nice and toasty, and limit the redness that can happen when your hands are cold. You can even purchase reusable hand warmers that can be charged! It’s a win/win! Click this link for rechargeable hand warmers.

Use Warm Props

You’ll be thanking yourself if you bring along warm props for your winter photos, but what does that mean exactly? Including props like blankets, and a warm beverage like hot chocolate, apple cider, or a hot toddy if you drink alcohol, can help you endure the chill in the air. These props can also photograph well! How cute would it be to photographed snuggled in a blanket or sharing a drink with your favorite person!

Embrace the Winter Weather

The best thing you can do for your winter photos is to embrace what the weather gives you! It could be raining, snowing, or cold, but your photos will still reflect the fun that you had with each other. Your session won’t last forever, and you won’t have to endure all day long, so enjoy it while it’s happening. “Bad” weather can create some of the most memorable photos you’ll ever have. Are you ready to take your winter photos? Inquire with me here and we’ll create a fun winter photo experience!