Capturing Warm Memories in Cool Weather: A Photographer’s Guide to Family Photoshoots

As the leaves begin to change and a crisp chill fills the air, it’s the perfect time to capture timeless family memories through a photoshoot. The cool weather may pose a challenge, but with a bit of preparation, you can enjoy a memorable experience. In this blog, we’ll explore the art of preparing for family photos in cooler weather, from dressing in layers to enjoying hot beverages and cozying up in blankets. As a photographer, I understand the importance of creating a comfortable environment for my clients, ensuring that the focus remains on capturing the love and family bonds.

How to prepare for a fall Southern Wisconsin session:

One consideration for a fall or winter family photoshoot is ensuring that everyone stays warm while looking good. Dressing in layers is the perfect solution to strike a balance between fashion and functionality. I recommend wearing base layers such as thermal shirts and leggings, topped with stylish sweaters or a dress, scarves, and jackets. This adds depth and texture while also allowing individuals to adjust their clothing according to the fluctuating temperatures. These photos were taken in Evansville, Wisconsin on a chilly October morning and the group came prepared.

Additionally, consider choosing warm, earthy tones for their outfits, as these colors complement the autumn landscape beautifully. Rich browns, deep reds, and warm oranges create a nice contrast against the backdrop of falling leaves and cooler skies.

Bringing the Warmth: Hot Chocolate, Coffee, and Blankets

To make the photoshoot experience even more enjoyable, I encourage people to bring along some warm beverages. Hot chocolate and coffee not only provide a comforting treat but also add a cozy and seasonal touch to the photographs.

Blankets are another essential item to consider. Not only do they offer physical warmth, but they can also serve as versatile props. Cozy blankets can be draped over shoulders, spread on the ground for seated poses, or wrapped around littles for intimate group shots. The texture and color of the blankets can add depth and interest to the overall composition of the photos. I always bring some neutral blankets to cozy up on to my sessions.

While the goal is to capture beautiful moments, it’s essential to prioritize the comfort and well-being of my clients during cooler weather photoshoots. I’m always more than willing to include warmth breaks in the session. This allows families to take a few minutes to warm up indoors or in their cars, ensuring that everyone remains comfortable throughout the shoot.

I’m always happy to discuss the weather, however, like most photographers my schedule is very booked each fall. With that said, rescheduling can be incredibly challenging so sometimes working through the weather is the best option.

For families who are particularly concerned about the unpredictability of cooler fall weather, I recommend scheduling your session in the spring or summer. This not only guarantees a more temperate climate but also opens up a broader range of outdoor locations.

In spring and summer there are vibrant colors, blossoming flowers, and longer daylight hours. These seasons provide a different yet equally beautiful backdrop for capturing family moments. Whatever time you choose, we will make sure to make the experience fun and capture some amazing photos for your family!

Preparing for family photoshoots in cooler weather requires a thoughtful approach to ensure that we are creating lasting memories. Dressing in layers, bringing hot chocolate or coffee, and incorporating blankets into the session are practical ways to add warmth to the experience. Additionally, being open to warmth breaks and suggesting alternative seasons for photoshoots can help alleviate concerns about the cooler and unpredictable fall weather.

As a photographer, my goal is to not only capture beautiful images but also to create an enjoyable and comfortable atmosphere for my clients. By embracing the seasonal charm and preparing for the cooler weather, we can work together to produce photographs that reflect the genuine warmth and connection within each family. So, let’s bundle up, sip on some hot beverages, and capture the magic of family moments in the cool embrace of fall or winter.