"Walking in a Winter Wonderland" can be a truly enjoyable experience, especially if warmly dressed and in good company.
There are many moments during the winter months that are ideal times for taking photographs, and these are not limited simply to the dramatic shadows and landscapes that seem to define the season. Winter snow scenes can be close up images of frozen shrubs and leaves, rivers of sculpted ice, families building legions of snowmen and women, dogs romping across deep fields of snow, or the cool lights that fill the sky at dusk and dawn.
There are some basic tips to use when planning snow scene photography however and these will generally address equipment, composition and lighting.
During the winter months the air is remarkably cold, and while this may turn noses red and make teeth chatter, it can also drain the function from the batteries on most digital cameras. Most professional photographers use insulated bags when possible, and it is suggested that most consumers keep their digital cameras in the shelter of an interior pocket if possible. Additionally, they should carry a spare set of batteries if photography is an important part of their day outdoors.
In addition to batteries, many winter time photographic efforts will demand the use of a tripod, and this is due to two factors – the low-light meaning longer exposures, and the shivering hands that can cause blur to the image. It is also a good idea to disable any LCD viewing screens until they are required – first because they rapidly drain the batteries and secondly because the winter time glare frequently makes them impossible to see.
For more tips about camera protection and the use of batteries click here
The next concern in snow scene photography is the composition of the shot. The primary issue for a winter image is the location of the sun. Because any midday activities are all ready at the risk of over lighting due to the reflection of the sun off the brilliant white snow, a photographer should be sure that the sun is either overhead or behind them when trying to take a picture. Later in the day the photographer will still want the sun to be at a right angle to them because its brilliance may still force the camera to underexpose areas of the scene. Additionally, the winter landscape presents a rare opportunity for introducing contrast and color into the image and such options should be explored as well.
Finally, lighting in a winter scene is similar to lighting a beach scene, and many photographers are surprised to learn that the use of the flash may be necessary in order to balance the image. Additionally, many photographers must address the white balance in their photos, and this can be easily done by using the beach or snow “modes” available in most modern cameras.
