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Capturing Magic: Winter Wedding Photographer

With the nights drawing in and the temperature dropping, there's definitely something magical about cosy winter weddings. Winter weddings are popular, and Christmas weddings are increasingly popular, so we find ourselves the busiest during this period. We love photographing winter weddings, and as we have extensive experience, we thought we would share our expertise and offer couples some advice that might be helpful. So, if you're planning a winter wedding, we've got some useful advice below.

Winter Wedding Photographer

Why It’s Important To Choose A Winter Wedding Photographer.

Winter weddings and summer weddings are very different, particularly for photographers. After all, we’re capturing light, so when there’s not as much around, or the indoor lighting is poor quality, it presents specific challenges that, unless experienced with them, can be difficult to overcome. It is not the case of adjusting your camera settings, and c’est la vie. Modern cameras are good, but ramping up the camera settings still deteriorates the quality of the images. Winter weddings can be stressful and complex, requiring expertise, particularly with lighting. I’m not talking big light dishes or killing the room’s ambience with big floodlights. Simple, strategically placed flashes on tripods bouncing light to give a very natural look.

So, in planning your winter wedding. Make sure your photographer has winter experience. Like in all professions, having experience is essential!

1. Lighting Conditions - All About Light! Or lack of it!:

Winter days are shorter, a lot shorter once the clocks go back, which means that natural light can be limited. On the 21st of December (the darkest day!), the sun sets at 15:53! This means photographers often need to work with low light conditions, making it essential to master artificial lighting techniques and I don’t mean sticking a flash on your camera. It’s especially important when creating beautiful and unique portrait photos. These can add a real wow factor when done correctly.

Winter Sunsets

The golden hour occurs much earlier in the day, too, and, in our experience, is often more beautiful than summer sunsets due to the dry, crisp air, but it does require careful planning to time this perfectly. Golden ‘hours’ are a lot shorter in winter, with the sun going down a lot further south on the horizon. On any wedding day, we use a variety of weather reporting and sun tracking apps to keep up-to-date with cloud cover and sun tracking. Some of our favourite sunset photographs have come from a calculated 3-minute window, where everything aligns.

2. Indoor photography - Bad tans and rosy cheeks!

With many winter weddings held indoors, photographers often face the challenge of capturing the energy and atmosphere of the event in confined spaces and with poor lighting. Venue lights are always set up for a warm ambience, not for photos. In many of the venues where we shoot, we find we have to improve the lighting quality, either by balancing the light or reducing the yellow/orange colour casts. All very dull (no pun intended!), but ultimately, we create much better-looking photographs of you and your loved ones. It’s particularly important during the family group shots.

Examples Of Well-Lit Indoor Group Photos

Three women in formal dresses pose with bouquets in front of a rustic stone wall with a heart decoration.
A bride in a white gown stands with a group of people amid the cozy ambiance of a warmly lit venue, adorned with string lights. This perfect scene captures the charm of winter wedding photography as they pose for a group photo.
A bride and groom stand with four people against a stone wall. The bride holds a bouquet and wears a lace gown, while the groom and three men wear suits. Two women wear long dresses and hold flowers.

3. UK Winters, Weather Extremes

Winter weather can be more unpredictable. Harsh conditions, such as strong winds, rain, or extreme cold, are more likely to affect the wedding party’s comfort and the equipment’s functionality. Photographers must be prepared for any scenario and have plans A, B and C! We subscribe to many live weather maps services that give us warnings about approaching rain,
Getting married between November and February, you can almost guarantee it will be cold, even if it’s a glorious sunny day! Therefore, family group photos may need to be taken inside the venue, which puts us back in the scenario above with poor lighting and bad skin tones (think bad tans and rosy red cheeks!!). We set up lighting to negate this matching daylight to give vibrant, beautiful family photos. All our equipment (and us) has weather protection (little jackets!!) to shoot outside in any weather! Memories of shooting in hurricanes and horizontal rain come flashing back! We would never force you into the bad weather, but we’re always ready to go, if you want that beautiful rain shot!

4. Time efficiency!

The shorter daylight hours mean that photographers must be efficient with their time. They need to schedule photos to ensure they get the necessary shots before the light fades, which can add pressure to the day’s timeline. To be honest, this is something we are always very mindful of, as we don’t want to get in the way of your big celebrations. But In winter, we are even more mindful of timings and fading light.

Winter Wedding Portfolio
Winter Golden Hour

Often more beautiful than the golden hours of summer, but your photographer needs to be quick because they pass by very quickly.

Bride in a white dress and groom in a suit walk hand in hand across a snowy field at sunset, capturing the magic of winter wedding photography.
Venue Ambient Lighting

Venue lighting creates a warm ambiance, but it’s not as flattering as natural light. Your photographer should be aware of this and know how to correct it to give you stunning wedding photos.

Subtle corrective lighting

No Flash/Flash

A bride and groom hold hands during a wedding ceremony in a rustic venue. Guests are seated, and an officiant stands nearby with a document. Flowers are arranged on a table in the foreground.

After the sun goes down...

Let’s get CREATIVE!

How do I choose a winter wedding photographer?

9 things to check before booking your winter wedding photographer.

Choosing a winter wedding photographer involves several key considerations to capture your special day beautifully. Here are some steps and tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Research, Research and Recommendations

2. Review Portfolios

3. Creative Wedding Photography

Using artificial lighting creatively is a challenge and takes a lot of practice, especially to achieve this time-efficiently. However, hiring someone who creates beautiful portraits with lighting can elevate your wedding photographs and give your pictures a real wow factor.

4. Style Alignment

5. Timeless Edits

6. Experience with Winter Conditions

7. Meet your photographer

When looking for a wedding photographer, schedule a meeting or video consultation with potential photographers. Speak to your photographer about your wedding plans, get a feel for their personality, and see if you can connect. Couples don’t want to feel awkward around their photographer. A good rapport will help you feel more comfortable on your big day.

8. Ask about equipment

9. Trust your instincts!

Ultimately, trust your instincts when choosing a photographer. You want someone who not only has the technical skills but also shares your vision and makes you feel at ease.
By taking these steps, you can find a winter wedding photographer who will beautifully capture the magic of your special day, even in the chill of winter or the dead of night!

All WEATHERs,

All SEASONS,

– We Got You!

A couple stands under a large tree illuminated with warm lights at night, creating a magical scene perfect for a winter wedding photographer to capture.

Winter Wedding Photography Portfolio

Enough Talk, Are You Available On Our Wedding Date?

8 Do’s and Don’ts for Getting Married In The Winter

1. DO Communicate

Imagine driving around looking for somewhere you were supposed to be 15 minutes ago, and to make things worse, it’s pouring it down! It’s pretty stressful and somewhat dangerous. Guests arrive late to weddings all the time, and it’s all the worse if the weather is terrible.  Trust me, soggy and frazzled guests are not the life of the party!  So, if parking, ceremony, or reception locations are not extremely obvious or a little confusing, communicate with your guests before your big day. That way help them attend your big celebration on time. Also, if cars carrying older guests can get closer to the wedding venue for a drop-off, communicate this to whoever is driving.

2. DON'T Forget Blankets

A stash of cosy blankets for your older guests is a game changer. From what we’ve seen, even the so-called ‘toasty’ churches can feel like the Arctic in winter. Flicking on the heat that morning won’t do much to warm up all that chilly stone. Wedding venues tend to be toasty enough, but I’ve spotted Grandma snuggling up to a blanket after a trip to the loo or later in the evening while the rest of the guests are on the dance floor.

3. DO get yourself some wedding insurance

If you haven’t done so already! Sure, it’s a long shot, but just picture it: a surprise snowstorm decides to crash your big day in the UK. Talk about a frosty reception!

4. DON'T forget your 'second shoes'

You definitely wouldn’t want to let a pair of shoes stand between you and that breathtaking sunset photo! Sure, you can hoist up your dress like a pro, but those fabulous wedding kicks will take the hit from whatever’s lurking beneath your feet! Heel protectors are a good compromise too.

A couple walks arm in arm down a sunlit, tree-lined path, captured beautifully by an expert in wedding photography. The woman holds a bouquet and wears a white dress, while the man is in a suit. The sun casts a warm glow over the scene, perfect for celebrating their love on this special day of reduced hours.
Bride and groom stand holding hands under trees, surrounded by pink fog, at night.

5. DO Embrace the weather

It’s going to be cold outside, and it might be windy, rainy or snowing or all of those on your day. But if you get the chance to go out for some photos, it’ll be worth it. Natural light is so much more flattering than indoor lighting. So if there’s a break in the weather for family group photos, go for it! If it’s raining, then indoors it is, and we’ll set up some lighting to emulate the natural light. Have an umbrella and some boots ready if you want an epic rain shot!

6. DON'T hold your breath for a spotless dress!

Spoiler alert: it’s bound to get a little grungy, especially on the bottom. But hey, for those picture-perfect moments, a little dirt can be magically erased with some editing wizardry! Many brides shrug it off with a “Hey, it’s just for today—I won’t be wearing this again.” And if it really bothers you, there’s always dry cleaning.

7. DO Check that your venue has somewhere to stash coats

Your guests will bring big coats and umbrellas, and they will quickly stash them somewhere so they can look their best. You’d think it’s a given, but we’ve seen damp coats piled on chairs before.

8. DON'T get hung about the weather!

Seriously, this applies any time of the year. Focus on having a great time, be in the moment; nothing can be done about it, and it’s not going to stop a fantastic day.

Planning A Winter Wedding?

Things to consider when planning a winter wedding. Check out: Rock My Wedding: winter weddings – 15 reasons we love them

Champagne Splash

OK, so this is a lot of fun! Substitute Champagne with some cheap prosecco, shake it up and pop the cork! You don’t need to get wet either if you point it at the camera person!

Sparklers on your wedding day

What’s a winter wedding without sparklers? Ok, so they’re not for everyone, but they do make wonderful photographs. It makes for a lot of fun for your guests, too.

Here are a couple of tips;

Go big, go fat! Little tiny sparklers will fizzle out way too quickly. The larger ones last much longer and are perfect for sparkler tunnels and sparkler writing.

Lighters: Normal lighters and matches don’t work very well (at all if there’s wind!) We always carry a pocket blow torch as these work in all weather and can light your sparklers quickly.

Timing – If you plan to get everyone outside for a sparkler exit, it’s better to do this right before the first dance. Why? Because you won’t want the DJ to announce sparklers when everyone is having a great time knee-sliding on the dance floor. Your DJ will thank you for this!

Fireworks

Some venues will allow wedding fireworks. These make a great way of creating a magical atmosphere for your special day.
When planning for wedding fireworks, it’s essential to coordinate with both your venue and the fireworks provider. Your wedding venue co-ordinator should know the local regulations and help obtain any necessary permits, as some areas have strict guidelines regarding the use of fireworks. They can probably recommend a company to that has experience at the venue.
Additionally, consider the timing of the display; many couples opt for fireworks to lead into their first dance.

A couple watches a vibrant red fireworks display at night, embraced by two people. The setting appears to be an outdoor event near a building.

Christmas Trees

If you’re planning a December wedding, your venue may have erected beautiful Christmas trees. These make a fantastic photo opportunity, whether it’s festive family photographs or creative portraits of just the two of you. The twinkling lights and shimmering ornaments provide a magical backdrop that enhances the romance of your special day.
Ultimately, a December wedding offers a unique charm that can make your celebration unforgettable.

Fire Eaters

YES! Why not? And yes, it’s a thing at weddings. This makes for spectacular night photographs, but better still, brilliant night entertainment for your wedding guests.

Winter Wedding Photographer

Embrace The Weather

No matter if the wind’s howling like a banshee, the skies are throwing icy daggers, or it’s just plain frosty, gear up like a pro, and your photography could turn out to be spectacular!
So, don those boots, zip up that jacket, grab an umbrella, and bring along your most adventurous spirit!

Hot Drinks

Think steaming hot mulled wine or delicious hot chocolate. Maybe not one after the other, but you get my meaning! It is an excellent treat for your wedding guests, adds to the ambience and helps keep them warm.

Winter Wedding Photographer

Roaring Fire & Roast Marshmallows

Who doesn’t love a fire to huddle around? OK, so this might not be allowed at most venues. However, Gas tube fires are child and drunk people safe.

Indoor Entertainment

Much of your wedding will take place inside as it’s the year’s colder months. Booking crazy golf or garden games will probably go to waste. It’s best to spend your budget on indoor entertainment. Think Singing waiters, Acoustic Duos, Magicians, Strings playing Christmas songs, or even an ice Queen!

Smoke Grenades Day and Night!

Smoke Grenades work great in the daytime but also at night, too, if your photographer knows how to illuminate and make the most out of them.

Smoke flares or smoke grenades can be purchased online. We have seen many couples use Enola Gaye smoke grenades.

Winter Lights - add some sparkle

Big or small, these can really add to the ambience. We’ve seen everything from big installations to little cute reindeer, extra festoon lights, and beautiful fairy lights throughout. Our advice is, when possible, to keep the colours warm rather than cool white.

Dress Code - What to wear at a Winter Wedding?

Keeping warm on your big day can be stylish, too and not only that add to your wedding photos.

For the couple:

Faux fur bridal shawls make an excellent choice for you and your bridesmaids.

Boots or trainers. You can have these on standby for when we take a walk

A decorated Jacket or a tailored overcoat can elevate your winter wedding look while keeping you cosy. Consider pieces with intricate embroidery or embellishments that complement your wedding theme. A chic blazer can also add a touch of sophistication to your outfit, especially if you’re wearing a simpler dress.

For the groomsmen, opt for a stylish wool or tweed suit that provides warmth and elegance. Layering with a vest adds depth to the outfit and helps retain heat. Consider incorporating a matching scarf or a pocket square in a seasonal colour to tie the look together.

For guests:
Aim for outfits that balance style with warmth when attending a winter wedding. Long-sleeve dresses in rich fabrics like velvet or heavy silk are perfect for the occasion. Pair them with tights and ankle boots to keep your legs warm.
For men, a classic suit in darker shades works well, but don’t shy away from incorporating a wool overcoat or a stylish scarf. Accessories like gloves and hats can add a fashionable touch while keeping you warm during outdoor portions of the wedding.

Colours and Fabrics:
Winter weddings often lend themselves to a rich colour palette. Deep jewel tones, metallics, and classic winter whites can enhance the festive atmosphere. Fabrics like velvet, brocade, and heavy silks provide warmth and look luxurious in photos.

Accessories:
Don’t forget about accessories! A statement necklace or earrings can draw attention to your face and add sparkle to your outfit. Consider chic gloves, a warm hat, or even a stylish umbrella for the winter months if there’s a chance of rain or snow.
Layering is key: add a stylish scarf or a pair of leg warmers to your ensemble.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, a winter wedding is an excellent opportunity to showcase your style while staying comfortable and cosy. With the right fabrics, colours, and accessory choices, you can enjoy the beauty of the season and create memorable moments that will shine through in your wedding photos.

Read more about what to wear at a winter wedding on the English Wedding Blog

FAQs

Q: What makes winter weddings so magical?

A: Winter weddings are always a treat! With a beautiful winter wonderland as your backdrop, it’s a lot of fun to capture the intimate moments of your dream day. Think snowy landscapes, twinkling lights, and plenty of opportunities for stunning wedding photographs!

Q: Can you take photographs in any weather?

A: Yes! All our equipment has protective ‘jackets’, including us! So if you are willing to step out into the weather, we’ll be ready too.

Q: What lighting equipment do you use?

We don’t use a lot of equipment, and we definitely avoid anything that is obtrusive or distracting. Instead, we choose safe locations to set up a couple of tripods with battery-operated flashes mounted on them. We use various modifiers to create natural-looking photos by bouncing light off ceilings or walls. When we’re lighting creatively for portraits, we set up the lighting, test it, and then ask you to step out for 30 seconds so we can capture a photo that is both beautiful and unique.

Q: How does the cold affect wedding photographs?

A: The light outside during winter can actually be quite flattering! While we may need to bundle up between shots, the crisp air can add a lovely glow to your winter wedding photos. Plus, who doesn’t love the chance to cuddle up for some cosy feel portraits outside?

Q: What if it rains on my winter wedding day?

A: Not to worry! Rainy weddings can still result in great photographs of the newlyweds as well. A talented photographer is able to work their magic even in less-than-ideal weather, creating stunning shots that capture the romance of your day.

Q: Can you photograph an intimate elopement in winter?

A: Absolutely! Intimate elopements in winter have a unique charm, and it’s a lot of fun to capture those special moments. Just imagine exchanging vows with snowflakes gently falling around you!

Q: What should we wear for winter wedding photos?

A: Layering is your best friend! Cozy wraps, stylish coats, or even a sassy wedding car with some fun props can elevate your winter wedding photos. Just remember, the more comfortable you are, the more fun you’ll have!

Q: How do you handle group shots in the cold?

A: Quick and efficient is the name of the game! We always get some great photographs of the newlyweds and their loved ones by keeping group shots fun and moving. Organised guest calling and working smart. You’ll be back with your guests in no time.

Q: What’s your favorite part of photographing winter weddings?

A: Honestly, it’s hard to choose just one! We love the beautiful winter landscapes, the emotional build-up, the joy of the wedding ceremony, Creating special and unique portraits and the laughter shared among family and friends. Every winter wedding is unique, and meeting your guests and capturing their moments is what makes our job so rewarding!

Q: How can I book you for my winter wedding?

A: Please get in touch! I would love to discuss your vision for your winter wedding and how we can create some magical memories together. Let’s make your dream day unforgettable!