Winter is a magical time of the year that presents photographers and creatives with so many opportunities to capture stunning images.
From the intricate details of frost to the vibrant colors of the winter sun, there are endless possibilities for creative winter photography.
So whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice photographer, grab your camera and get outside to explore the wonders of winter photography.
Who knows what amazing images you might create?
1. Frosty close-ups
When you get up close to frost or ice in the winter season, you’ll see that it is made up of countless tiny crystals, each with its own unique pattern and shape.
Close-up photography of small subjects, also known as macro photography, allows you to capture these stunning details to reveal the intricate beauty of winter that we often overlook.
To capture frosty macro shots, you’ll need macro lens and a steady hand to avoid blurry shots. Look for interesting patterns and shapes in the frost or ice, and experiment with different depths of field to isolate a specific part of the subject to create a nice, crispy image.
2. Winter wildlife
Japanese red-crowned cranes in winter by iamdoctoregg, 123RF
Winter is a time where it seems like everything has become slow and quiet, but many animals in the great outdoors thrive during the cold season.
With the beautiful backdrop of snow, winter is a great time to photograph wildlife – the foraging of food, their interaction with other animals, or just them exhibiting their unique behaviors.
When it comes to photographing the animals themselves, it's important to be patient and observe the animals from a safe distance to avoid danger to you and the animal. Instead, look for natural hiding spots or blinds where you can observe the animals without disturbing them.
3. Frozen lakes and rivers
If you have access to safe rivers or lakes during winter, and it’s frozen all over – you’re in for a visual treat. Frozen bodies of water can be fascinating subjects for winter-themed photography.
Experiment with different angles and compositions to create dynamic images, highlighting the unique formations, patterns, and textures of frozen water.
4. Winter sun
Photography is all about light – and the soft, golden hues of the magic hour (the hour before sunrise and sunset) is already breathtaking as it is.
Pair that with the stunning beauty of winter, and you’d get yourself a unique and dynamic light that is perfect for giving the winter sky and landscape a different dimension.
Pick out a location that offers a clear and unobstructed view of the horizon, or look for interesting foregrounds, silhouettes, or shadows in your surroundings.
5. Sports in action
Photographing action-packed winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding can be exciting, but it might be a challenge for those who do not have a telephoto lens.
To capture the action, you’ll need a lens that will get you up close to the athlete even if you’re at a distance. You’ll also need a fast shutter speed of at least 1/500 second.
Not forgetting to capture the details to make it a more interesting story – think images of the snowboard, skis, boots, gloves, goggles and more.
6. The bleakness of winter
Snow-covered forest in winter with road cutting through by faust84, 123RF
Winter scenery can look intimidating and gloomy with white trees and colorless landscapes. Though this bleakness can be depressing in real life, it looks striking in a photo.
The bleakness and barren landscape offers fewer distractions and directs the viewer to look at the subject.
7. Portraits
The key to successful winter portraits is to incorporate the snow and the cold, and use them to your advantage. For example, taking portraits of people who have seasonal jobs like snow removal experts or reindeer herders.
If that’s not really your vibe, winter portraits are also a wonderful way to capture beautiful family portraits when they’re out playing in the snow.
With a bit of creativity, you can capture stunning winter portraits that will be cherished for years to come.
8. Make it fun with furry friends
In case you didn’t know already, winter photography doesn’t always have to be so dry and bleak. Adding in a pinch of fun in the sea of bleak winter landscapes can really brighten up the mood.
Take your cold-loving furry friends out there and snap some pictures of them enjoying the weather. Keep your furry friends warm, get them playing with their toys, and there you have it – a moment immortalized into a photo.
9. A pop of color
Winter landscapes can often feel stark and colorless with a limited palette of grays, whites, and muted tones. Consider adding a pop of color to your winter photos to create a more vibrant and engaging image, adding interest to the scene.
Look for colorful foliage, bright berries, or other elements like these rows of red wooden houses or red roses.
Go on, get out there, and explore the world!
Like these winter-inspired photographs you see on this blog? Check out 123RF where you can find plenty more like these that you can even download for free! Just search for keywords such as “winter, snow" and select the ones most suitable for you.