From snowflakes to string lights: capturing the magic of a winter wedding
Winter weddings come with their own set of challenges, but with the right approach, you can create beautiful, timeless images that capture the magic of the season. From embracing the cold and using natural light to your advantage, to getting creative with your location and incorporating seasonal elements, there are plenty of ways to make your winter wedding photos stand out.
With the right wedding attire, you can stay warm and comfortable while still looking your best. In this blog post, we’ll provide tips and tricks for capturing the best wintertime wedding images, so you can create a stunning visual record of your special day that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Dress for the weather and embrace the cold
It may be tempting to stay inside where it’s warm and cozy, but don’t be afraid to venture outside for some stunning winter wedding photos. The cold weather can create a unique and romantic atmosphere for your images, and bundling up in warm coats and blankets can add to the cozy vibe. Just be sure to keep your fingers and toes warm to avoid any uncomfortable shots!
If you’re worried about your hair and makeup getting ruined by the cold, consider taking a few indoor photos first to get those out of the way. Then, bundle up and head outside for some more creative, winter-themed shots. A blanket wrapped around your shoulders or a warm scarf can add a pop of colour and texture to your images, while a pair of cozy gloves can add a touch of whimsy. With a little preparation, you can capture beautiful, memorable winter wedding photos that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Creating a warm, romantic atmosphere with natural light
Winter days are shorter, which means you’ll have less time for taking wedding photos. Make the most of the available natural light by scheduling your photo sessions for the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and more diffuse.
This will help to eliminate harsh shadows and create a more natural, flattering look in your images. If you’re planning on taking outdoor photos, pay attention to the direction of the light and try to position yourself so that the sun is in front of you or at least to the side. This will help to illuminate your faces and avoid harsh shadows. If you do need to use artificial light, choose soft, diffused sources like string lights or candles to create a warm, romantic atmosphere. With a little planning and the right lighting techniques, you can capture beautiful winter wedding photos that showcase the magic of the season.
Thinking outside the box: creative ideas for winter wedding locations
While a traditional church or banquet hall can make for a beautiful winter wedding setting, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and get creative with your location. Consider taking photos at a nearby park or botanical garden, where you can take advantage of the natural beauty of the winter landscape. A blanket of snow can create a picturesque backdrop for your wedding photos, and the crisp, cold air can add a touch of romance.
If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, consider taking photos in a cozy indoor location like a library or coffee shop. These types of settings can provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere and add a unique touch to your wedding photos. Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box when it comes to your wedding location. With a little imagination and some careful planning, you can create beautiful, memorable winter wedding images that truly capture the magic of the season.
From fireplaces to string lights add cozy details for winter wedding photos
Winter is a time for cozy fireplaces, twinkling lights, and festive decorations, so consider incorporating these elements into your wedding photos. A holiday-themed backdrop or a shot of the happy couple in front of a fireplace can make your photos feel cosy and also add personality to your images. String lights or candles can create a warm, romantic atmosphere, while holiday decorations like wreaths or pinecones can add a festive touch.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box when it comes to incorporating seasonal elements into your wedding photos. With careful planning, you can create beautiful, memorable winter wedding images that truly capture the magic of the season.
Side-note: The photo below is an example of a documentary/candid style of wedding photography. Choosing a style that suits you is super important to the decision making process, check out our blog post “Wedding Photography Styles: Which One is Best Suited to Your Big Day?” for my examples.
Dress for the weather, layers layers layers!
It’s important to keep warm and comfortable during your winter wedding, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Choose wedding attire that is appropriate for the weather, such as a thick, warm coat for outdoor shots or a plush velvet dress for indoor photos.
Layering can also be a great way to stay warm while still looking chic – try pairing a thin, long-sleeved dress with a thick cardigan or a cozy fur wrap for a stylish and practical look. Don’t forget about your accessories, either – a pair of warm gloves or a thick scarf can add a pop of colour and keep you warm in the chilly weather. Much like the previous points, with a little prep you can dress for the weather while still looking and feeling your best on your big day.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to capturing beautiful, timeless winter wedding images that truly capture the magic of the season. Remember to embrace the cold, use natural light to your advantage, get creative with your location, incorporate seasonal elements, and dress for the weather. With a little planning and the right approach, you can create a stunning visual record of your special day that you’ll treasure for years to come regardless to what mother nature throws as you.
If you’re thinking about getting married and are struggling to figure out how to narrow down your search for a photographer check out our blog post “Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wedding Photographer”.
