A concern we’ve heard a few times about booking a location session in the colder months is the fear that photographs won’t look as good in winter wear. We have to disagree… Let us explain why - and what to wear for colder shoots - below.
(For our warm weather clothing tips, go here.)
First, it’s a well kept secret that winter sessions (or late autumn / early spring) might just be the best time to have family photographs taken. A cool, crisp winter’s day, with soft low light provides a backdrop that just can’t be done in summer, with its harsh direct light.
That being said, when it’s cold outside it can be a miserable experience if you are not properly dressed. (As the Scandinavian saying goes: there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.) So dressing for a winter shoot is simple: wrap up warm!
A warm coat, preferably with a hood, is not just a practical decision, it’s a creative one too. Instead of working around a jacket, we can shoot so that it’s part of the session - think 60s style fashion shoots (see Mick Jagger, shot by Terry O’Neill, here). The hood acts as a prop and frames the face so you can focus on expression.
Jumpers and chunky knitwear, underneath or instead of a coat, will give a different look - we promise not to have your jacket off for too long: just enough to get some stylish shots.
Scarves, gloves and hats add some variety. And in the cold we work in short bursts so you can unwrap, take some photos, and get back into your warm clothes quickly.
And once we’re done having amazing photographs taken and before your nose gets too red (there’s Photoshop for that), you can find the nearest cafe for a hot chocolate. A perfect winter morning (or afternoon) activity…