It looks like we’re in for a big one.
Kids are hoping for school closures, parents are preparing for a work-from-home day, and social media is overflowing with snowstorm advice, some helpful, some… not so much.
When a true New England snowstorm hits, most people default to the classic plan: stay inside, stay warm, put on a movie, and keep the hot chocolate (or warm wine) coming, rewind and repeat!
But since this is a photography blog, written by someone who grew up in a country where there are no “snow days,” because every winter days is by definition a snow day, I’m going to argue for something different: bundle up, go outside, and make snow day photos to remember this day!
Because a snow day creates something rear and beautiful, a fresh, clean version of everyday life. And if you can brave the cold for just 20 minutes, you can come back inside with winter photos that are real, timeless; images you’ll want to look at again and again.
Photography in the Snow: What to Shoot (and What to Watch For)
Snow, by definition, makes everything look cinematic. The streets get quieter, the light softens, and familiar places, your neighborhood, a nearby park and even your own backyard, suddenly transform and feel brand new.
Whether you’re photographing your kids playing outside, capturing a super fun family moment, or creating your own, romantic couples session, winter photography in the snow has a look that no other season can replicate.
That said, snow photography can be tricky if you’re not prepared. Bright highlights, cold fingers, squinting faces, and reluctant “models” can quickly turn a fun shoot into a frustrating one.
Here’s some tips on how to make your winter photos shine!
Why Snow Makes Photos Look So Good
Snow is like nature’s reflector. It bounces light back into faces, softens shadows, and creates a clean, bright background that makes your subject stand out. It’s also wonderfully simple: no clutter, no distracting colors, no messy backgrounds.
A snowy setting helps you by creating a soft, flattering light (especially on cloudy days), a built, clutter-less minimalist backdrop, a story, a mood and a clear sense of season.
The #1 Snow Photography Mistake: Gray Snow and Dark Faces
Have you ever taken pictures in the snow and wondered why everything looked dull, dark, or gray, the exact opposite of what you are trying to achieve.
That’s your camera trying to “average” the scene.
Snow is extremely bright, but your camera meter doesn’t know it’s supposed to be white, so it darkens the image to reach a medium tone. The result is gray snow that looks dirty and flat.
Quick Fix: Brighten Your Exposure
If you’re using a phone:
Tap on the face and raise the exposure slider slightly.
If you’re using a camera:
Use +0.5 to +1.5 exposure compensation, depending on how bright the snow is.Your goal is simple: snow should look white, not gray.
What to Photograph in the Snow (Easy Winter Photo Ideas That Always Work)
If you’re not sure what to photograph, here are some suggestions:
1) Kids Being Kids
Snow is by definition a fun activity for young and old. Let them run, throw snowballs, build forts, make snow angels, or chase each other down a hill. The best photos come from motion and laughter. Do not make your snow playing kids pose, of course unless they want to!
2) Family Moments
Creating family moments in a snow shoot is as easy as stepping outside. Don’t line everyone up as if it is a portrait for a formal holiday card. Walk, even better, run in the snow. Pull a sled. Ride a sled. Throw snowballs. Throw some snow up in the air and capture that moment! Photograph a hot cup of hot chocolate outside and watch the steam rise. In a word, just have as much fun as you can and capture it on camera. No worreis, your phone camera is just fine!
Don’t forget to include your dog in the picture. Dogs love a good snow day as much as people.
3) Couples In Snow Are The Definition of Romance
Snow is naturally romantic. It encourages closeness, movement. Just as in the case of family photos the advice is the same, move, and have fun!
I am going to date myself but some of the most amazing couples in the snow scenes come from two movies: The Love Story and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, among many others.My son and his girlfriend had fun recreating the snow scene from The Love Story and if you happen to be on The Cape, go to the beach and combine the ocean with snow! If you’re wondering what to shoot during a snowstorm, these ideas work every time.
A Couple More Things To Remember
Cloudy Days Are Your Friend
A bright overcast day is one of the best times for snow photography. The light is soft, even, and flattering—no harsh shadows or squinting.
Golden Hour Is Pure Magic
If the sun is out, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The snow glows, the tones warm up, and everything looks dreamy.
Avoid Midday Sun (If You Can)
Midday winter sun can create harsh light and deep shadows in eye sockets, especially if the snow is reflecting light upward. It also makes people squint and feel uncomfortable.
What To Wear to Make Snow Photos Pop
Wear clothes that have rich, solid colors. Textures clothes like knit hats, bright scarves and coats. Try to avoid neon (they distract ) and white colors (they will make you disappear in the snow).
Lastly, I know that the main message of this website is that photography is art. It is. A snow day can make you the artist!
Final Thoughts
If you are like me and believe that photography is art ), a snow day can make you the artist!