These days weddings are not just spring and summer affairs and there’s no doubt that with some careful planning, there’s certainly a lot to love about a winter wedding. So if you have gone for a date in the winter months, you know you’ve got to embrace the season, right? After all that’s why you have chosen to marry at this fabulous time of year! Yes, it might be windy, it might rain and if you are lucky there might be snow (mmm, snowy-landscapes!) but it’s your special day whatever happens so make it awesome.
AMAZING WINTER WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
Of course plan to your hearts content it’s an exciting time, do what makes you happy, but there is massive value in taking on board advice from your photographers, remember we’ve been there before. From a photographers perspective, winter is totally different, for some it’s panic stations for others it’s a welcome change from long summer nights that can offer new exciting photo opportunities.
We love all seasons and are lucky to have couples who do too…So with that in mind, here’s our top ten tips to consider in terms of your winter wedding photography:
1. It gets dark, quick
The light disappears much earlier than we always think it will. That may sound obvious but it is important to make sure that you consider this when planning the timings of your day. A late-afternoon ceremony will probably mean that the natural daylight is no longer available. Ideally, grab an early ceremony to catch those last couple of glorious daylight hours in the afternoon.
2. Don’t be afraid of the dark
Just because it gets dark that doesn’t mean you have to fear it. Inside, consider cosy log fires, warm ambient light or scatter around romantic candles. Outside, we have the tricks and the tools, we’ve got you covered. Think about sparklers or if you feel like going all out (and why not) fireworks! Don’t worry, our lenses can handle low light conditions, so go for it!
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3. Choose your venue wisely
It may look very different in the winter months. The leaves have fallen, the sun is lower and that rooftop bar might not seem so appealing. But most venues now cater fantastically well for weddings all year round, so don’t be shy to ask them about creating that warm welcoming feeling. Also look out for some interesting backdrops, unusual decor and windows that let in dramatic shafts of light.
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4. You can’t control the weather
But you can prepare for it! We would all love a crisp, sunny morning – but let’s keep it real here. Have some brollies and wellies on standby, just in case. You never know, they might not leave the boot of your car. If it’s windy, dramatic veil and hair shots will always make your winter wedding photography great, so let’s do it!!
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5. Let’s go outside
There’s some awesome shots to be had out there and it can get chilly. Remember to keep warm, accessorising now comes into its own. We don’t want shoulders shivering, so consider faux fur or rock a leather jacket…and don’t forget your bridesmaids may be cold too!
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6. Be flexible
Weddings rarely run on time. As long as everyone is having fun, that’s what’s really important. The best laid plans in terms of your photography schedule can be flexible depending on the weather – so as opportunities arise, be prepared to come back for the mince pie later, seize the moment and nail those ‘must have’ shots.
7. Do your feet a favour!
Have another shoe option. Heels of course, are going to make you feel and look great but when it comes to going outside, perhaps on grass, flats may be a better choice to rid you of that sinking feeling! Doc Martins and Converse are now really popular and can be personalised, yes…click here to get some in your life!
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8. Roadtrips
Stuck behind the snow plough? Bad weather can sometimes mean chaotic traffic. Consider the distance between your ceremony and venue and allow extra time for this. A short trip can take longer in wintery conditions.
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9. Keep your photographers happy
For epic coverage of your wedding day, shooting can be over 10-12 hours long (and we love it) however, photographers are not robots. Perhaps check with your venue that your suppliers will be looked after. A hot brew can go a long way to stop fingers going blue, it’s not a good look!
10. Trust us
Your wedding day will fly by and the most important thing is for you guys to enjoy it. Your photographers will anticipate what’s to come in terms of light and weather so you don’t have to – it’s a ninja skill.
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EXTRA EXTRA!
For the guys
Stuck on what to wear? You can’t get more wintery than velvet, it’s lush and comes in rich colours than will compliment your wedding perfectly. It’s warm fabric too so no shivering for you! Tweeds are also a great look as you can layer up with a matching waistcoat to add that extra bit of warmth for venturing outside. Take a look here for some inspiration!
For the girls
Bridesmaids that sparkle. Click here for inspirational glitter girls!
Colours scheming
Soooo many options, the world is your palette! You may want to go seasonal with gold, reds and blacks…or think autumnal with chocolate browns, deep burgundys and lush greens. Check this out for great ideas!
Christmas decorations
Venues tend to put up their decorations from as early as October! The chances are they are lush, yes! décor sorted…or…they are not to your taste or don’t fit in with your style? Gaah! Check with your venue beforehand to see what they are doing.
Cold guests
Look after them, we all know someone who’s always cold! Warm them up with hot toddies or mulled wine and they’re more likely to relax those shoulders and enjoy your day.
Matching in the morning
Consider matching attire for the bridal party during early preparations. For example, reindeer pj’s are easy to find at this time of year and look great on your photos!
Entertainment in the winter
Be realistic. Auntie May is not going to get on that carousel if it’s sat outside in the rain, so for 100% smiles all round make sure your entertainment is under cover.
We hope it helps you with your wedding planning!
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Check out more of our photography adventures at top UK and North West wedding venues. For more winter wedding photography advice and inspiration see our other Never Mind The Bunting features!
Related posts you’ll love:
Awesome Singleton Lodge Winter Wedding with The Parker’s >>
Magical Winter Wedding at The Great Hall at Mains with The Walsh’s >>
