It is getting to be that time of year where it is getting chilly and it makes it more difficult to get outdoor photos where you aren’t all bundled up or have teeth chattering due to the cold. I have planned my Christmas mini sessions outdoors this year. So, how do you stay warm at an outdoor winter family photography session? Here are my suggestions!!
Cute hats and gloves!!
Head on out to the store and find some color coordinating hats and gloves for the whole family. If the rest of your attire is neutral in color, this can be a fun place to add a pop of color. With this in mind, just make sure they all work well together. Stay away from hats that have logos on them.
Consider a scarf!!
Along with the hats and gloves, consider wrapping a scarf around your neck or collar for some added warmth! Again, ensure they coordinate with the hat and mittens you have previously chosen!
Avoid January!
Here in Edmonton, January seems to be the coldest month of the year. Try to plan any outdoor winter family photography sessions for either November (before it gets too cold) or late February / early March (before it gets too melty and messy out there). This way, it won’t be a deep freeze for your session.
Wear thick socks!
If you are from the Edmonton region, you know there is always snow on the ground in the winter and not everyone wants to be photographed in big winter boots! So pull out those wooly socks if they fit inside the shoes of your choice to help keep your toes toasty!!
Bring a jacket to warm up in between poses!
Unless everyone has complimenting dress coats, you probably don’t want the kids in their big bulky winter jackets. But don’t leave them at home. Bring them for a quick warm up between poses.
Dress in layers and wear a sweater!
Dress for the weather – make use of long johns under your pants, and wear a shirt, followed by a sweater or thick long sleeved shirt. Even better – wear complimenting dress coats!
Get “Hot Hands”!
You’ve likely seen these at the local Canadian Tire come winter time. They are heated pads that you can slip in your socks, gloves, or coat pockets that will help keep you warm. (My husband uses them when he’s out in the field with the military in the winter to help keep warm.) In any case, you can pick these up almost anywhere locally.
Bring a blanket to cuddle in!
A blanket can be super adorable in a couples portrait, or while cuddling up next to your kiddos! Bring one that compliments your attire, and that you are not afraid if it gets some snow on it or gets stepped on (as this will happen!)
Cuddle with your loved ones!
My last tip – get close and cuddle with those you love! We all know body heat helps keep us warm, so try and steal some from your significant other, or donate some to your kids! Whatever it takes to stay nice and warm!
I hope these tips help you to stay warm at your outdoor winter family photography session! If you’d like to talk about a session, feel free to reach out here! Enjoy a selection of some various outdoor winter photos I’ve taken in past years! For more of my family work, check out my family gallery!
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