When considering an outdoor photo session in the winter months, you may come across a bit of a conundrum. Of course, you want to look cute for your session, but you do not want to be too cold while standing outside for an hour or two!
Enter the answer: this blog post! I’ve compiled a list of the most pertinent “do’s” and “don’ts” pertaining to outfit choice for photo sessions that take place in winter weather.
SAY YES TO…
Visible Layers - Visible layers - coats, sweaters, faux fur wraps, and the like - can not only keep you warm and toasty, but add lots of great visual interest to a photo! Consider finding an adorable coat that you could wear for your entire session, and plan any other outfits around that!
Hidden Layers - As great as visible layers are, you might want to consider some “hidden” layers for your winter session, too! Layering extra warmth under your “visible” layers (so long as they don’t get too bulky!) can be a game changer during a winter session. You’ll want to make sure you can last in the cooler temps so that you can get your money’s worth of photos during your session! My favorite example “hidden layers” came from one of my engagement session clients, who wore a beautiful maxi skirt to her winter session. She layered multiple pairs of pants and fluffy socks underneath her skirt, and you couldn’t even tell in her final images!
Super Cute Coats - Like I mentioned before, consider splurging in a cute coat, and make it the visual centerpiece of your images! A cute coat “goes” quite well with a winter backdrop, too.
Winter Accessories - Give me ALL of the adorable winter accessories! Hats, scarves, mittens, boots, boot socks, faux fur wraps - you name it, it can be incorporated into your images, AND add warm during your session!
Boots or Waterproof Shoes - This is a HUGE one that I try to remember to tell my clients beforehand… if your shoot will have snow in it, make sure you wear a pair of shoes that are either 1) water proof, 2) insulated, or 3) you don’t care about getting ruined! If you schedule a session with me and there’s snow, you better believe that we will be galavanting around in it!!
Bright Pops of Color - I LOVE bright colors for winter sessions! With backdrops being mostly more neutral (with snow) or barren (empty tree branches), pops of color (think a bright colored coat, or a bright set of mittens, scarf, and hat!) can add lots of visual interest and “pop” to your images!
Winter Themed Props - Fun winter themed props can be a great way to stay warm during your session! Have a cute and cozy blanket laying around the house? Bring it and we can have you sit on it, or wrap you and your family or partner up in it! You could even bring some cute mugs and hot chocolate for something a bit more styled.
CONSIDER PASSING ON…
Outfits That Show Skin (if you don’t want to muscle through the cold!) - This one might seem obvious, but I’ve had quite a few people over the years show up to their winter sessions in dresses and short sleeve shirts, and I’ve felt absolutely terrible keeping them out in the cold! Of course, this is a completely personal choice. Some people don’t mind the cold, and are willing to “muscle” through for an hour when they have a specific vision of what they want their photos to look like. I love those people!!! But if you are uncomfortable and cold and having a no good very bad time… that will most likely show through in your images! Consider choosing weather appropriate clothing, unless the cold never bothered you anyways ;) Remember that you will be out in the winter weather for an extended period of time, so you’ll most likely get cold fast!
TOO Many Heavy Layers - While layers are usually a good thing when planning for an outdoor session, you will want to make sure that you don’t have too many layers! Too many extra layers can add on extra “weight” that isn’t there.
A FEW MORE RESOURCES:
If you’re looking for some more help preparing for your winter photo session, check out the posts below!
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert in outdoor photo sessions, I can provide you with valuable information on outfit choices for winter photo sessions. I have extensive experience in this area and can offer practical tips to ensure that you look cute while staying warm during your session.
Visible Layers
Visible layers, such as coats, sweaters, and faux fur wraps, not only keep you warm but also add visual interest to your photos. Consider finding an adorable coat that you can wear for the entire session and plan your other outfits around it.
Hidden Layers
In addition to visible layers, you may also want to consider "hidden" layers for extra warmth. Layering extra clothing underneath your visible layers can be a game changer during a winter session. Just make sure that the layers don't become too bulky. For example, you can layer multiple pairs of pants and fluffy socks underneath a maxi skirt, and it won't be noticeable in the final images.
Super Cute Coats
Investing in a cute coat can make it the visual centerpiece of your images. A cute coat goes well with a winter backdrop and adds a stylish touch to your photos.
Winter Accessories
Embrace adorable winter accessories like hats, scarves, mittens, boots, boot socks, and faux fur wraps. These accessories not only add visual interest to your images but also provide warmth during your session.
Boots or Waterproof Shoes
If your photo session will involve snow, it's important to wear boots or waterproof shoes. This ensures that your feet stay dry and warm throughout the session. If there's snow, don't hesitate to have fun and explore the snowy surroundings.
Bright Pops of Color
Bright colors can make your winter photos pop, especially against neutral backdrops like snow or barren tree branches. Consider incorporating a bright colored coat or a set of mittens, scarf, and hat to add visual interest to your images.
Winter Themed Props
Using fun winter themed props can not only add a touch of coziness to your session but also help keep you warm. You can bring a cute and cozy blanket to sit on or wrap yourself and your family or partner in. You could even bring some cute mugs and hot chocolate for a more styled look.
When it comes to outfit choices for winter photo sessions, there are a few things you may want to consider passing on:
Outfits That Show Skin
If you're not comfortable muscling through the cold, it's best to choose weather-appropriate clothing. Avoid outfits that expose too much skin, as you'll be out in the winter weather for an extended period of time and may get cold quickly.
Too Many Heavy Layers
While layers are generally a good thing for outdoor sessions, it's important not to overdo it. Too many heavy layers can add unnecessary weight and make you feel uncomfortable during the session.
I hope these tips help you prepare for your winter photo session and ensure that you stay warm while looking cute!
