Winter sessions in Utah create some of the PRETTIEST settings for photos!! I mean, c'mon! There is such a peaceful beauty about the clean, crisp snow...and can we talk about when it's actually snowing during a shoot!? *fainting over here* Snow shoots also are so fun because the snow gives you an easy way to be natural and play during your session rather than just posing....snowball fight, throwing snow into the air, wrestling, building a snowman, and on, and on, and on!
One thing I always tell my couples though is to layer up! With the beautiful snow usually comes weather that ranges from spine tingling chilly to deathly frigid, and even though the pictures will 100% be worth it, I want you to enjoy your session and have fun! So here are some tips on how to keep warm during your session even when it is COLD!
Layer Up
This is so important! Especially if you are doing your bridals in the snow and are in a dress. The chances of your legs getting touched by snow is very likely, especially if your session is in the mountains, so throw on some fleece lined leggings! No one will even be able to tell! If your snowy session is more casual dress, then layer up under the clothes you want in your photos, and embrace winter accessories. Throw on that cute puffer jacket and carhartt beanie, and maybe add in some cute mittens and a scarf! Don't be afraid to let your winter session look like a winter session!
Long Socks + Boots
No matter your session, wear warm, long socks and boots! Usually during your photoshoot we will walk to a few different locations so you get a variety of backgrounds in your gallery! If you don't have boots you want in your photos, bring some to wear in between as we tromp through some snow to get to those beautiful untouched spots!
Hot Cocoa is a Must!
Okay, maybe not a "must", but it's always so nice to have! You can bring it and leave it in your car to drink when the session is over, OR bring it out during your shoot and I'll get some cute candid shots of you guys as you warm up! Either way it's a win-win and you get some cocoa.
It's Okay to Take Breaks
Remember that your session is about you! Think of it as a fun date night, and it's supposed to be just that...fun! If you need to stop and take a break, throw on a coat, or even go warm up in your car for 10 minutes THAT IS OKAY! As a girl who doesn't love being cold, and literally will wear 5 layers deep to your session, I am 100% on board if you need to warm up. Plus, if you are comfortable and having fun with your session it will show in your photos, and I guarantee you will love your photos even more so because of it!
Crampons
If you have these they can be SO nice to have! Sometimes the ground can be icy, so it can be nice (if you have them) to bring some easy slip on crampons to hook onto your boots as we walk from one spot to another. Not a necessity, but they can make things easier, so if you have them you might as well bring them just in case!
Blanket
If we're far enough away from the car that you don't want to go all the way back for a break, a blanket is a fantastic option to wrap around yourself and keep warm between pictures! Plus, did you know if you lay a blanket on top of deep snow and cover it with the powder it will help keep you from sinking in!? I know...we learn something new everyday!
Hot Hands
Need I say more?
Have Fun With It
Remember to have fun with it! Play with it! The more you move around, laugh, and enjoy yourself, you won't be thinking about the cold and that in and of itself will help keep you warm!
