Walking in a Winter Photoshoot: 5 Tips to Create Wonderful Winter Photography

I’m rounding up some of my favorite winter photography shoots in hopes of bringing you a little seasonal cheer and winter photoshoot inspiration. Whether you’re newly engaged, planning your wedding,  growing your family, scouting an editorial photography location, or just looking to hit the slopes and snap some holiday photos, this is for you. I’m going to share some of my most memorable winter photography sessions from over the years, as well as some winter photoshoot tips and ideas.

While I may be writing this from my desk in sunny Miami, Florida, I’m a mountain girl at heart. I love winter. I spent the first decade of my life in the remote ski town of Mammoth Lakes, California. Needless to say, while I don’t spend as much time in the mountains now, the lure and charm of crisp winter air and beautiful snow has never really left me.

In the (hopefully near) future, I’d love to shoot Lake Louise (in Banff, Canada) and anything in the Swiss Alps. Maybe work will take me to these winter wonderlands someday soon. But for now, these snowy destination photoshoots will have to hold me (and you) over!

 Here are some of my all-time favorite winter photoshoots I’ve done so far — with their location included — so that you can take note if you get inspired. And don’t miss my winter photoshoot tips below the images!

Winter Photography: Engagement Shoots

Chicago, Illinois

One of my favorite winter photoshoots to date was that of Leigh Ann and Matt. We flew to Chicago in January, hoping the forecast would bend our way and we wouldn’t find ourselves in a blizzard. I remember refreshing the forecast over and over on my phone as we traveled there!

My vision was to shoot the couple in the beautiful winter wonderland of Chicago. But when we arrived, the roads were covered with brown slushy snow — dirty from all the car traffic. It was hardly appealing. Continuing to check the forecast, we made a plan and crossed our fingers. Luckily, the morning of our shoot the temperatures dropped and the snow came!

Leigh Ann and Matt were patient and brave, venturing out into the subzero weather, determined to help us make magic. The result? The snowglobe shot I had in mind all along—and lots of laughs as we all froze our buns off.

Winter Engagement Photoshoot Tip:

When it comes to planning a winter photoshoot for your engagement, be patient and plan around the forecast. It’s worth it to wait for the fresh snow and to face the stormy conditions to get the right shot! Let the weather be your ultimate guide.

Winter Photography: Engagement Shoots

Vail, Colorado

Becky + Jason were married in Napa at Meadowood, one of my favorite venues.  But they wanted to incorporate another favorite destination into their engagement session. Becky grew up coming to her family’s home in Vail, and she and Jason had many great memories of trips to Vail while they were dating. So Vail was the perfect, meaning destination for a winter engagement shoot.

Once there, I scouted and scouted until I  finally found the perfect place for their session. We started with more formal looks and then changed into more casual winter attire, complete with the family’s snow sled. These playful images are some of my favorites and really capture how Vail made them feel—at home and joyful. 

Winter Engagement Photoshoot Tip:

When it comes to planning a winter photoshoot for your engagement, location really is everything. Why not incorporate one of your favorite places? Or somewhere you’ve been dying to go? Turn your winter engagement shoot into a true getaway! Some of my favorite winter sessions are destination photoshoots — where we meet our couples somewhere they love or somewhere they want to explore. Make this an adventure!

Winter Photography: Editorial Shoots 

Aspen, Colorado

Another favorite of mine was the cover editorial for Geraldine Magazine. We ventured to Aspen, Colorado in January. Just like Leigh Ann and Matt’s session, we were greeted with a snowstorm and subzero temps. Luckily, our entire team was determined enough to persevere through the extreme weather. We trekked through the snowy trails and ended up having to put down planks of wood for the models to stand on when the snowfall became too deep. But the result? Gorgeous editorial winter photos. Ultimately, our scouting and dedicated conviction to head out into the wilderness paid off!

Winter Editorial Photoshoot Tip:

Don’t be afraid to work for your winter editorial photoshoot vision! Fashion looks incredible set against snowy landscapes. If you’re willing to be tough and put in a little extra preparation and effort — and put on some snow boots — almost anything is possible. Always dare to dream big. There’s a good chance you’ll be able to find a way to make your vision a reality.

Winter Photography: Family Portrait Shoots

Mammoth, California

While this wasn’t a client session, I couldn’t do a winter photography round-up without including my dearly departed Great Uncle Bob — who helped construct the original ski lift, Chair 1! He was also one of the first patrollers at Mammoth Mountain — where he skied every single year between 1948 and 2021.

Great Uncle Bob skied, drank Coors Light daily, and was full of more positivity than most. A couple ski seasons ago, we documented one of his legendary annual runs down Mammoth Mountain. Unsurprisingly, this winter portrait photoshoot is very near and dear to my heart.

Winter Family Portrait Photoshoot Tip:

When planning a winter family photoshoot, consider settings that have particular meaning to your family. How can your location choice help you tell your family’s unique stories?

Winter Photography: Family Portrait Shoots

Atlanta, Georgia

Lastly, while this might be the only winter photoshoot that doesn’t feature a lot of snow,  it still reflects all the festivity we’re looking for this time of year. 

The Cobas chose the classic and historic Swan House in Atlanta as their winter family photo backdrop. Jenni, who has always had a talent for fashion styling, chose the perfect bold red gown to contrast against the neutral tones of the old building and the greens of the flora. There’s something so special about this winter portrait shoot!

Winter Family Portrait Photoshoot Tip:

Be bold with your fashion! Embody the theme of winter with the texture, form, and colors of the holiday season. From snow boots to scarves to dramatic couture gowns — they all work wonderfully against wintery backdrops.

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There you have it — my winter photoshoot tips and ideas! I hope you feel inspired. Whether you’re planning your winter wedding, engagement, or family portrait session, these winter photography tips should definitely help you bring your winter visions to life.

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