Simple Tips to Get Breathtaking Winter Wedding Shots

As effortless and beautiful as they seem, winter shots are actually quite difficult to pull off if you haven't got the right tricks up your sleeve. Read on to get your hands on some of the best and easiest tips that will get you the best winter wedding shots.

Can you handle the cold?

Before deciding to have a winter wedding shoot, ask yourself this question: can I handle the cold? Some people can bear cold better than others, and it's important to know how you'll cope with the weather. If you get all cranky and bothered in cold weather, it would be better to move your photo shoot indoors. Don't force yourself just because you like the idea of having a winter photo shoot. If you're okay with it or even love the chilly breeze, then by all means embrace it and rock that shoot.

Choose the right timing

Especially because it's winter, timing is crucial as it affects two important aspects of any photo shoot: light and weather. Always consult your photographer to get the best natural light for your pictures. Days are much shorter in winter and it gets darker much quicker, so it's best to schedule a daytime shoot. A good time would be an hour before sunset, which gives you soft gleaming rays that look great in pictures. Avoid midday shots as the light will be too bright and the snow will only help reflect it, resulting in too much light. You don't want to be seen squinting in your pictures, do you?

As for the weather, it's a known fact that winter weather can be unpredictable. Whenever possible, always find slots to do shoots in a fresh winter snow, which usually comes right after a storm. Don't forget to also schedule a back up day just in case a storm or blizzard suddenly comes on your scheduled shooting day.

Pick the right spot

Finding a place for a winter wedding shoot is actually not that hard. If you live in a woody area, try to get some glimpses of the wood in your frames as they can liven up a winter photo. Also, don't choose somewhere too far from your shelter so that if it gets too cold, both you and the photographer can quickly go to the shelter to rest. Don't forget to also consider the safety and length of your trip. Lengthy travels might wear you out before the photo shoot and you should never sacrifice your safety by going through an unsafe trail.

Bring in Layers and Colors

This goes without saying, but make sure to stack up on layers of clothing to avoid getting frostbite or other cold-related sickness. Bring in cold repellant accessories like scarves, ear muffs, hats, and mittens or gloves to keep yourself warm. If you're wearing a wedding dress, use a faux fur coat for a warm yet fashionable look, and have your groom wear a tweed suit. For engagement shoots, casual trousers, boots, and coats will also look great. Wear colors other than white as your setting has plenty of white already. Makeup-wise, put on warm and bright colors to add more life into the pictures unless you're aiming for the snow queen look on purpose.

Take breaks

Doing a photo shoot is tiring, let alone doing it in the middle of cold weather. If you ever feel fatigued, take a break from the shoot. If you're tired, it will easily show in the pictures and you won't look as fresh as you were when you first started the shoot. Head over to the shelter to unpack some goods that you've prepared before and drink hot cocoa along with some snacks. This is actually a great idea for a natural photo concept, and think of how lovely you'll look with rosy cheeks after some warm drinks!

Choose your photographer carefully

Last but most definitely not the least, carefully choose your photographer. Winter shoots require a lot of technique and hiring an amateur photographer will cost you more in the end when you see the pictures not turning out as lovely as you intended. Professional photographers will do their job well and would know what to do and how to direct you in the shoot. You wouldn't want someone who will be confused and overwhelmed when it's crucial to make use of every moment. That's why, choose your photographer carefully.

To get you more excited, here are some brides fearlessly ruling the winter with their stunning pictures. Keep scrolling to get inspired!