Autumn and winter mark a special time for me as a creative – the light is just stunning. The lower angle gives the sunlight a beautiful glowing quality, combined with misty, hazy mornings, making my outdoor sessions feel magical. The quality of light on bright blue sky days makes the colours pop, and even on gloomy days, the autumn colours stand out beautifully. It’s one of my favourite times to be outside because of this exact magic.
Practical Benefits of Autumn and Winter Photoshoots
Due to the shorter days, and the lower angle of the light, we can plan a session at almost any time of the day. And that coveted golden hour is sooo much more convenient during autumn and winter because it falls at a reasonable time (around 3-5:30 PM, depending on the month). This is so much more manageable for families with young kids than the late summer hours (no more cranky kids staying up past bedtime!).
Plus, the slightly cooler weather makes photoshoots more comfortable for everyone involved. You can take advantage of layering to ensure everyone is comfy and warm enough, and there’s less chance of dealing with accidental not-quite-where-you-want-them-to-be tan lines (well unless you’ve been skiing). And farmers – those ever-present gumboot tans? Easily covered up by your winter wardrobe!
Here are a few more practical reasons to consider autumn and winter photoshoots:
Take advantage of richer colours and textures: The autumn leaves and winter landscapes provide stunning, natural props. Imagine rich reds, oranges, and golds, or the crisp whites and cool blues of winter. Nature does half the decorating for us! AND we can bring in a totally different vibe than your summer photos by choosing deeper and richer colours and textures
Change up the look: Cooler weather means you can get creative with layers and colours – think cozy scarves, stylish coats, and cute boots. It’s the perfect excuse to buy those fuzzy trimmed (and super cute) things your kids are always asking for, and an opportunity to buy or crochet or make that gorgeous knit you’ve had your eye on.
Softer light: The softer light during these seasons reduces harsh shadows and squinting, making everyone look their best without the need for sunglasses, or a hat. And the way the light hits the landscape means that the colours are rich, saturated and gorgeous.
And possibly my favourite:
Easy Natural Posing: The need to stay warm encourages natural, cozy poses. Hugging, cuddling, and wrapping up in blankets look and feel more genuine (and less posed) when it’s chilly. Sometimes when your kids have grown past that stage when it’s easy to pick them up for a cuddle, recording the moments when they do still want a snuggle with you is a little more awkward – but not in the winter!
Personal Family Traditions
Ironically, when conditions are perfect for a photo shoot, things tend to slow down with family portrait bookings. But that’s handy because it’s actually when I plan for my own family portraits. Looking back, we’ve had our family portraits taken every year between May and July. This year was the exception, as I managed to arrange family photographs with my extended family in January. But I’ll definitely do a session for the four of us this year because traditions are important (and my kids are growing at an astonishing rate – seriously, how do they outgrow clothes overnight?). S
Ready for your own photoshoot?
If the season feels right for your family and you’re in between the “woah” and the “go”, consider that this might be the perfect time for some beautiful, artful photographs – a refreshing change from the usual summer snaps. Get in touch via my contact form and lets start planning your beautiful family portrait session
With joy,
Kate
