I will be honest here, it takes a lot for me to want to leave my house on a snow day.  However, snow photos are among my favorite type of outdoor photos. It is SO cold out there, but the results are so pretty that it’s worth the temporary freeze. In addition to just plain being worth it, I have a few tips and tricks to share that may help keep you warmer than just tossing on a dress and running to play in the snow.

The winter weather in Northern, VA, to include Loudoun County where my studio is can be pretty feast or famine.  We can go years without any snow at all, and suddenly get enough snow to last us an entire week. I am here to suggest that you seize the day and hop outside for some photos if you can! Snow sessions are held AFTER the snow has finished falling, and crews have had ample time to clear the roads in consideration for your safety, and the safety of everyone on the road.

Planning your session:

Snow photos can be hard to plan if you live in an area like Northern Virginia. We get snow, but when or how much is unpredictable. If you want snow photos, for your family or maternity photos, email me. I will put you on a list and contact you when snow is in the forecast. Unlike most maternity sessions, snow sessions are taken when mother nature allows. Luckily work from home days, or days off usually go hand in hand with snow days.  Maternity photos are suggested between 32-36 weeks, but there is wiggle room to that based on your own personal preference.

Session timing:

Excitement and fear of melting snow might make you think to run out at sight of first flakes, but good snow cover is suggested.  It is best to wait until the snow stops falling, mostly for your own safety.  If heavy weather is predicted, sit back and wait for the roads to clear. With good snow fall, photos can be taken the day, or even 2 days after it snows.  This is typically how you get slightly warmer weather and also get snow.  There is still sometimes wind the day after, which can be just as cold.

Aim for the warmer times of day.  Solar noon is typically the warmest weather you can find in the winter.  Typically snow comes with large clouds and very overcast days so it is safe to shoot at peek sun and get nice results.  The snow will reflect nice diffuse light on your face, in addition to heavy cloud cover doing the same from above. You can absolutely take photos during golden hour, just before sunset but it will be colder.

Dress the part:

Snow maternity photos are best paired with a pretty gown and that can be done without freezing off a toe.  Family photos are a bit easier to bundle for but most of these rules apply or can be adapted.  Just like you would when going sledding, layer up. Dresses are long for a reason.  I suggest wearing leggings, good socks and snow boots under your dress.  I personally have a pair of Under Armor active cold gear leggings that I managed to shimmy into when I was pregnant.  If you have something similar, dig them out of the closet for photos.  If not, any leggings will do.

It is important to make sure any under layers are not showing through your dress. This includes the waist band of leggings, or even your bra.  If you have pretty fur or faux fur, bring it with you for an extra layer and extra fancy look. Nothing to wear? Let me know and I will help with that if I can! Bring your warmest coat and plan to put it on and take it off between photos and walking from location to location.  You can also wear ear muffs and gloves in between as well.  Just be mindful of hair and makeup when choosing something to cover your ears.

Logistics:

You will want to stay near a heated home, or at minimum a car with the heat on and plan to take breaks. I have access to a wooded lot and scenic walking trail.  I will be in layers and likely won’t get cold as fast as you do.  If you are too cold and putting your coat on for a few isn’t cutting it, tell me so that you can stop and warm up.  Your comfort is worth 5 minutes if you need it!

Embrace the cold:

Aside from dressing the part and planning your best, there isn’t much you can do about the fact that snow is just cold.  Sometimes it is fun to simply snuggle up too.  Plan to cuddle in jackets, or a blanket with your significant other.  It provides a different look and feel on top of an elegantly styled session.

Are snow family or maternity photos on your pregnancy bucket list?