Winter Wedding Tips
What to expect and how to make the most of your photos
A professional, experienced wedding photographer can create magic at any time of year, in any lighting situation. However, each season comes with its own challenges and advantages that affect the final photos you'll receive. Winter weddings, while cozy and festive, bring unique considerations, especially when it comes to lighting and timing. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your winter wedding photos.
Indoor weddings
With colder temperatures and unpredictable weather, most winter weddings naturally take place indoors. While this creates a warm and intimate atmosphere, it also means that your photographer will need to rely more on artificial light.
Many indoor venues have soft, ambient lighting that can create a cozy feel but may not be ideal for photography. Your photographer will likely use a flash for certain parts of the day to ensure every moment is captured clearly.
Talk to your photographer about your venue in advance, and you’ll be able to put a plan together for indoor portraits.
Challenges of low light
One of the biggest challenges of winter weddings is the lack of natural light. It gets dark by 3pm or 4pm in the UK, which means daylight is a limited resource. The earlier your ceremony, the more natural light you'll have for your photos. For winter weddings, it's a good idea to plan a ceremony for 1-2pm to make the most of the daylight hours.
If you're hoping for outdoor group shots and portraits, be sure to prioritise this in your timeline. Alternatively, we often recommend having a first-look portrait session, before the ceremony, to make the most of the winter rays.
Low light also means that your photographer may need to use flash more frequently. While many photographers work to be as inconspicuous as possible, flash can occasionally be distracting or take away from the atmosphere. This isn’t a problem is any way, just something to be aware of when planning a winter wedding.
Embrace the outdoors
While it's true that winter weddings are typically indoors, don’t be afraid to step outside for a few photos, even if it's cold! Some of the most magical wedding photos happen in winter landscapes. If you're willing to brave the cold for just 10 or 15 minutes, you can capture stunning portraits that will stand out from any other season.
Snow, frost, or even just the starkness of bare trees can create a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos. The key is to dress for the weather—this is where a stylish shawl, fur bolero, or elegant winter coat comes in handy. Not only will you stay warm, but these accessories add a romantic, timeless touch to your photos.
Sparklers: A winter wedding must-have
One of the standout benefits of having a winter wedding is the opportunity to incorporate sparklers into your celebration. Sparklers are not only a fun and interactive way for your guests to participate in your big day, but they also create stunning, unforgettable photos that add a magical touch to your wedding album.
As winter weddings often take place after dark, sparklers become an ideal addition to the evening. Imagine you and your new husband/wife making your grand exit through a tunnel of glowing sparklers, your guests surrounding you with shimmering lights, laughter, and warmth.
Whether you use them during your exit, for a nighttime portrait, or as a grand finale to the reception, sparklers create an enchanting atmosphere that perfectly complements the coziness and intimacy of a winter wedding. Plus, they’re always a crowd favourite—guests love playing with sparklers and we love to see the unique designs they come up with.
Tips for planning the perfect winter wedding photos
If you're planning a winter wedding, here are a few tips to ensure your photos turn out beautifully:
Prioritise natural light: Try to schedule your ceremony earlier in the day, around 1pm, to take advantage of any available daylight. This gives you the best opportunity for outdoor portraits and group shots.
Be mindful of the cold: Plan ahead for your outdoor photos. Have warm accessories like shawls, scarves, or even matching blankets for you and your bridal party. These not only keep everyone comfortable but can also be a cute, seasonal addition to your photos.
Trust your photographer: While you may have a shot list or certain ideas in mind, remember that winter weddings come with unique challenges. Trust your photographer to capture the moments that matter most in a way that complements the season and your wedding style.
Don’t forget the details: Winter weddings are a wonderful opportunity to incorporate seasonal elements like twinkling fairy lights or festive greenery. These details will make your photos feel cozy and special, and they help tell the full story of your wedding day.
Written by Eleth Mageehan, (c) 2024, all rights reserved.
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