Snow + Family//Winter Family Photos

Snowy backdrops are a dream. I know that sometimes weather and temperatures outside can sometimes deter family photos in the winter season. But there is something so dreamy about the soft white snowy canvas that winter brings. It gives me all the warm and fuzzy feels of family, love, and the holiday season. We can get so many photos take in 15 minuets so being outside during the cooler temperatures is totally do able.

I want to encourage families to seriously consider winter family sessions. Don’t be intimated by the snow or temperature outside. Here are five tips for taking photos in snowy or colder weather:

1. 1. 1. Hand Warmers: It can get nippy out there and little fingers get cold. Even my hands get cold and it’s hard for me to push buttons on my camera sometimes. Have cute mittens for your kiddos and bring along some warmers to save the day when their little fingers need some extra love. Or place them in a pocket to put your hands in-between takes.
      2.  Blankets: Bring along a warm blanket or  jacket that you can wrap up in if needed. If you bring a cute blanket that compliments your outfits we can even use it in the photos. Blankets are especially useful when I’m focusing on one kid – the other kids or mom and dad can use the blanket to keep warm while they are waiting.
      3. Hot Drinks: Love hot chocolate? How about Starbucks red cups? Nothing keeps your hands toasty warm like a yummy holiday beverage.  Just like blankets, warm drinks can double as cute props and functional hand warmers. I only caution drinks with littles since its a spilling hazard, but bring a thermos for after so everyone is happy.
      4. Layers: Layers.For.Days! Come with sweaters, coats, beanies, gloves, tights, socks, scarves, and more.  Come over dressed loaded in layers for warmth and then strip down a few layers for a few photos. Or incorporate your layers into your photos so that they are complimentary to your color schemes. I love a good  beanie and mittens with a fun and stylish sweater or jacket.
      5.  Scotchguard: Scotchguard is the bomb.com.  It basically waterproofs all the things. You can spray it on ALL your shoes so that the snow doesn’t soak through and make your feet wet or cold.