5 Tips For Beautiful Family Photos in the Snow
A white Christmas is always welcome after the hustle of getting ready to the holidays, its like we had to slow down for moment and take it all in. The brisk snow was a perfect opportunity for me to grab the Martin family who really wanted to update their family photos in the snow. I’ve learned a few things from photographing families in the snow, here are my 5 tips for family photos in the snow.
We had planned to drive to Mount Hood area but as nature would have it-she decided to gift us this stunning snow fall right in our own backyard. Yay!
#1 Tip For Family Photos in the Snow: Dress Warm
Wearing layers, sweaters, warm boots, socks, and taking warming breaks is a must for family photos in the snow. Younger kids will especially get cold fast, giving them breaks in a warm car or putting on a big winter jacket in between photos is a great option. Mom was wearing a green velvet dress from amazon that kept her pretty warm. She also had leggings under it that were comfortable, warm, yet you can’t seem them at all under her dress. All of the kids sweaters were from Target and in fact, kept them fairly warm though out the photo shoot.
Tip #2: Wear a Pop of Color
You’ll want to stand out against the white snow right? I always recommend a pop of color, textures, simple prints, and I love something that flows on mom-its flattering to every figure and gives a lot of movement in the photos. This family did great with that, I love moms green velvet dress with kids textured sweaters. The simple print on the youngest sibling is darling also. Click here for more on what to wear for family photos.
Tip #3: Snowy Location
Sounds silly but I have actually had this happen once. I was with a family that knew there was going to be snow at a particular location and when we got there, it was completely with out snow. Dagger to our hearts! We had to reschedule the photo shoot and I vouched I would always make sure there was going to actually be snow at the location for family photos in the snow. If there is no snow locally at the time, I recommend White River West Snow Park. It is a beautiful location and snow is promised in the winter months!
Tip #4: Time of Day Matters for Beautiful Family Photos in the Snow
Taking outdoor family photos later in the day, about 2-3 hours before sunset, gives flattering soft light. If they are taken too early, say mid-day, the light is much more harsh. Plan on taking the afternoon to have your families photo shoot. If you have younger kids, check out this blog on how to prepare your kids for family photos. You will be surprised at how well kids do for family photos, even if it’s interrupted a nap for a day.
Tip #5: Have Laid Back Expectations
Have fun and know that you’ll be cold, it’s ok it will only be about an hour. Give kids breaks and don’t worry about silly behavior that day. Kids need to run, play, and actually enjoy this experience to create the kind of photos you will cherish forever. So, if they wan to throw a snowball-let them! Heck, join in with them and just have fun!
Are you looking for snowy family photos? Let’s chat!
