Why You Shouldn't Let Winter Discourage You from a Photoshoot

​Photographers all know that winter is considered our "slow season." Clients love to their outdoor photoshoots, and once the temperature drops many are deterred from getting their pictures taken.  I'm here to tell you why I think winter is actually the perfect time for photos!

First, while winter obviously means colder weather, it does not me less beautiful landscape. Outside photos can still be beautiful in cold weather! Sunrise and sunset are the best times to have your photos taken, and these hours are usually referred to as the "magic" or "golden" hours for pictures. Did you know it is scientifically proven that sunsets and sunrises are more amazing in the winter season? (Something to do with pollution and air quality that is difficult for me to explain but you can read about by clicking HERE. ) Also guys, snow is BEAUTIFUL and makes for gorgeous photos like this maternity one I captured!


​If you hire a good photographer, (i.e., ME lol), they will be prepared to keep your comfortable in the cooler temperatures as well. I always bring hand warmers and blankets for my clients. Also, I try to shoot photos as quickly as possible to try and get you out of the cold while also capturing beautiful shots. 

Second, everyone and their mom takes outdoor photos, especially for engagement, or senior photos. While I love this style of a shoot, I also enjoy the opportunity to be more creative. Winter gives me as the photographer and you as the client the opportunity to take some more unique photos indoors. I'm a lifestyle photographer which means I want to photograph you living your life! I love capturing clients in their "natural habitats" or being their authentic selves. Let me come to you and photograph you just being yourself and having fun indoors! Below I have listed some alternative  and creative places to take photos in the winter months. 

1. YOUR HOME : I think that at your house is one of the best places to take photos! Newborn photos are always great for this because you usually have a nursery set up and everything you need for your child there. Home is not just a great location for baby photos though, and it can be used for engagement photos and family photos! Seriously, just search Pinterest for either of these, and you will see a ton of examples. You and your loved ones are the most relaxed at your own home too so it takes a lot of of the pressure off of posing or feeling unnatural in photos. 

2. A COFFEESHOP OR PUB: I think a coffeeshop is such a cute location for engagement photos! If you're a coffee lover like me what could be better than cozying up with your love over a warm latte? Or perhaps you could go to your favorite bar or pub and while you two sip on your favorite beer and cocktails we snap some adorable photos! Just you guys hanging out in your natural element!

3. ICESKATING: Winter is the only time you have the opportunity to ice skate outside. Knoxville has such a cute ice skating rink set up in Market Square during the winter months. This is a great location not only for engagement photos, but also family photos. It's a great way to showcase your family having fun!

4. BOWLING: On the note of your family having fun, Knoxville has a great, more modern bowling alley downtown.  Why not capture your family doing something all together or your friends all having drinks and goofing off? This or a pizza place would be especially great for a group of friends who are seniors in high school. 

Another great photoshoot location is an art museum, which usually has excellent lighting. Also, I think just wandering around through an antique shop would make for some unique and cute photos. It is all about what you like to do and what feels natural to you!

​Do you like to hike? Do you enjoy playing arcades? Perhaps you just have fun cozying up on the couch watching old movies! Let me capture you and your loved ones where you feel happiest! Just because it is cold outside does not mean you have to give up on having family, engagement, senior or any type of photos made! With the right photographer, (again ME, LOL!), you can capture just as gorgeous photos in the winter months as you would in any other season!