Winter Family Session Tips for a Successful Outdoor Session // Seattle Family Photographer
You’re wondering “Photos in winter?" Huh?” I actually work quite a few clients during this “dead season.” Yes, there is usually rain and grey this time of year in Seattle but that usually doesn’t deter folks. I am hoping to provide you with a few tips to make your winter family session during colder temperatures and the PNW grey less stressful and more fun!
1. Dress for the weather.
Cold humans do not like being photographed. WarmI and cozy ones do! So dress warmly. For this time of year, I suggest really play up layers and textures. I can add a lot to your photos. Think cute hats, jackets, boots, sweaters, thicker fabric clothing,etc. Long underwear and/or base layers are fantastic for warmth and putting the cute stuff on top. As my client, I give you access to a fantastic styling site that can help to coordinate and choose your outfits for every family member. Plus, I am always here to help!
2. Location matters. As always.
During these grey winter months, location matters even more. Trust your photographer on this. For my winter sessions, I look for locations with great sunset light that I can hopefully filter a bit and has open skies. Since we’re dealing with mostly overcast skies, I appreciate having locations with big open skies that it easier to shoot in no matter the conditions. I also want locations with texture this time of year. This includes beach sessions (think driftwood), forests, or the complete opposite with urban shoots using colorful walls as backdrops. I have a few favorite locations that have all of these! Choosing the right locations can bring so much life into your winter family photos.
3. Allow some flexibility to your schedule for your session.
A wonderful thing about booking a winter family session is that many photographers are not as busy as the fall season. I highly recommend giving some flexibility with the start time and date of your session in the winter. Since many plants are in hibernation, scheduling around light adds a little something to your images. I suggest my clients plan to be able to move their weekend session to either day depending on the best weather day. Giving yourself some wiggle room on timing can help!
4. A good cuddle and run goes a long way
If we’ve worked together before, you like I like to move a lot and will ask you, too. This help with variety of shots AND TO KEEP US ALL WARM. I also recommend to all my clients to bring a nice neutral blanket they can use to sit on top of my Gathre mats or cuddle with for extra warmth and coziness. This helps with keeping everyone in good spirits.
Ready for the run and cuddle with your family at your winter family session? Would love to work with you.