Seasons provide endless subject matters for photography and not just nature-related ones. We may appreciate the autumn colors, the spring blossoms, and the summer’s brightness, but that doesn’t mean that all we can do are landscape photographs. Each season has a specific energy that translates into our habits and feelings and interferes with our daily lives. And if you know how to capture that energy in your photography, you are on your way to success. So here are a few tips and ideas for Winter Photography Inspiration.
Architecture Photography
Architecture photography focuses on lines and geometry. Textures and patterns are also important. And winter makes all these elements look better. It may be the lack of color, the reduced light intensity, or the cold grey sky, but winter has a way of making buildings look more beautiful than ever. It simplifies things and makes architectural details pop up.
In winter, life is silent and calm. It seems that everything moves slower. At the same time, buildings become more impressive. Maybe it’s because we need them to keep us warm. Or maybe it’s because they stand out due to lack of vegetation. Whatever the reason, include some winter vibes in your architecture photography. You may want to try a minimalist color palette, dramatic contrast, and unusual angles.
Photo by Mike Kotsch on Unsplash
Street Photography
In winter, life on the streets changes visibly. As the weather gets colder, feelings get more extreme. A hot cup of coffee brings more joy. Being homeless is more traumatic. Snow can be both a blessing and a curse. All these details create outstanding stories that make your street photographs memorable and authentic. So prepare to take photos in bad weather conditions and walk the streets in winter.
Remember to take both environmental shots and close-ups and diversify your compositions. Street lights are perfect for creating the bokeh effect, so don’t limit yourself to a wide-angle lens. Bring a telephoto lens, too.
Photo by Chanan Greenblatt on Unsplash
Portraiture
Winter conveys solitude and nostalgia and invites us to a meditative state. When nature slows down, so are we. In addition, winter makes a good background for portraits due to its reduced color palette and soft lines. I won’t distract the viewer from the main subject. But it will add some flavor to your composition.
You can also use the low, soft sunlight as a lateral light or even backlight and make the model’s hair glow. Try portraiture with environmental backgrounds in winter, and you won’t regret it.
Photo by Rodolfo Sanches Carvalho on Unsplash
Editorials
Adding a few distinctive elements is necessary if you are working on a winter campaign. Your viewer only needs a hint to take on the season you are referring to. For winter editorials, you may want to focus on natural elements (e.g., snow), holidays (e.g., Christmas items or colors), items that convey cold (e.g., steamy drinks), winter clothing, or winter colors (e.g., white, grey soft browns). Give your viewers food for thought and convince them to spend more time with your photographs.
Photo by freestocks on Unsplash
Conclusion
Winter photography is inspiring because the season offers so many symbols and references. You get to work with all senses and incorporate memories and emotions. So, don’t let your preferred photographic genre be the reason for not using winter elements in your compositions. On the contrary, experiment as much as possible.
Cover photo by Myriam Zilles on Unsplash