Winter Photography
Undisturbed, quiet and beautifully white, winter is a season like no other. From the smallest ice crystal to the great expanse of a snow-covered field, the cold of winter is the visual architect for an endlessly evolving storyline. For photographers it is a pure white canvas for contemplation and creativity.
The winter months provide us with a unique perspective of the outside world. One in which most color is unseen. Leafless tree branches crack the sky from autumn’s ritual and nearly all other color hidden by a blanket of white snow. This might keep a lot of photographers inside with the camera bag snuggled away until the color of spring and warmth returns. With the right gear, however and a keen eye, winter is a blessing and an opportunity to explore the visual wonders it provides.
One of the greatest architects of winter’s opportunities is the wind, eroding and redepositing snow crystals creating visual movement to any winter scene.
Even though color’s impact is subtle and quiet during the snowy months or winter, color can be dynamic and add a splash of excitement to any monochromatic scene.
Trees make great subjects in any season, but in winter they can be incredible. Their branches provide the compositional framework and in winter that’s amplified in the absence of leaves. I love trees!
Pure white snow is a powerful reflector and with the warm light of alpenglow and the golden hours at sunrise and sunset this color is becomes even more powerful.
There are many variables that contribute to a successful winter photo adventure, but being prepared for the cold might be the most significant. Here’s a few things to keep in mind;
Stay warm, dry and happy by layering your clothing. One of the best little clothing options for keeping your hands warm and toasty are gloves made by companies like, AquaTech. These handy winter gloves were designed for photographers, allowing your thumb and index finger access to adjust dials, press buttons, etc.
Another handy little accessory for cold weather photography is the disposable hand and foot warming packets. You’ll get hours of warmth from these safe little products. Beyond your boots and gloves, they fit just about anywhere, like under your hat or in a pocket. Eating well and staying hydrated helps too!
Optimize your camera battery power by storing the spares in a pocket close to your body (warm and dry). If your camera shows low battery power, install one of the warm ones and put the drained one back in your pocket. It will acquire a little more power after it warms up.
If you use a tripod, treat yourself to some leg covers. They not only protect the legs, but handling the tripod will be warmer for you!
One of my all-time favorite places to photograph in snowy white of winter is Yellowstone National Park and I’m excited to announce that DJP Workshops will be returning to Yellowstone in February of 2021!
Spots will fill quickly so, pre-register here.
~Doug