Written by Emma Deeley.
Tips for Capturing Romance
Dreaming of capturing your love story against the backdrop of winter’s quiet beauty? The winter months are often the most romantic time for an engagement shoot. The crisp air, soft winter light, and serene landscapes create a romantic setting that feels magical and intimate.
But let’s be honest – planning a photoshoot in winter takes a little extra thought. The shorter days and unpredictable weather can feel challenging but with careful consideration and preparation, they frequently become part of the charm.
At Tythe, we’ve seen how couples transform winter’s natural beauty into a breathtaking canvas for their engagement photos. Whether it’s frost-dusted trees or a cosy fireside moment, this is your chance to capture a season full of warmth and romance. So, let’s dive into how you can plan the perfect winter engagement shoot and create memories you’ll treasure forever.
Embracing Winter’s Unique Backdrops
The colder, winter months might not boast summer’s pretty blooms or autumn’s fiery colours, but it offers something just as magical. Winter landscapes have a unique beauty, with frost-dusted fields, bare branches creating striking silhouettes, and a soft light that helps to make every moment feel more intimate.
The Beauty of Winter Settings
Picture yourself and your partner cuddled up against the backdrop of a countryside dusted in frost. Tythe’s picturesque grounds are ideal – whether it’s a morning stroll along the tree-lined paths, a late-afternoon cosying up on sheepskin-clad pews or a ‘kiss’ delicately bathed by festoon lighting – winter’s charm is all around.
Rustic and Cosy Details
Winter settings are perfect for creating cosy, storybook-like photos. Think of sitting beside an outdoor fire pit, toasting marshmallows, or standing under a canopy of twinkling fairy lights. These details not only elevate the aesthetic but also make the shoot feel warm and inviting.
Finding Hidden Gems
Don’t forget to explore lesser-known corners of your shoot location. Often it is the raw, textured backdrops that add that interesting element to a photo and winter’s natural beauty provides endless opportunities for creativity. A secluded woodland, rustic fence, age-old stone walls or frost-covered grass can provide that extra touch of magic, making your photos look like something out of a classic winter romance film.
Styling Your Engagement Shoot for Winter
Winter engagement shoots are as much about what you wear as where you go. Your outfits set the tone, whether you’re going for timeless elegance, cosy charm, or a playful, romantic vibe. And with the winter chill in the air, you’ll want to strike a balance between style and practicality.
Dressing for the Season Without Losing Style
Layering is your best friend for a winter shoot, and it can be incredibly chic. Imagine a tailored wool coat draped over a soft cashmere jumper or a luxurious scarf adding a pop of colour to your outfit. Opt for textured fabrics like velvet, tweed, or chunky knits – they add depth and photograph beautifully in a soft winter light.
When it comes to colour, winter offers endless inspiration. Think emerald, deep red, or sapphire – all of which stand out brilliantly against a muted winter backdrop. For a more subtle look, consider soft neutrals like cream, camel, or grey, which create an understated yet elegant effect.
Accessories and Props for Cosy Charm
Don’t under-estimate the power of a well-chosen prop or accessory to bring your shoot to life. A shared blanket in a rich tartan print or a pair of steaming hot cocoa mugs. If you have already chosen a particular colour theme for your wedding, why not consider injecting a hint of it within the shoot. Summer colours can still work in winter – imagine a backdrop of lush sheepskin throws and candlelight, winter-white outfits from head to toe with pops of colour provided by carefully curated accessories – a woolly hat, matching gloves or a small posy of flowers. References to your wedding day help to add a personal, romantic touch.
Looking to inject a bit of playfulness? Think mittens, earmuffs, or matching beanies for some light-hearted, candid shots. These accessories not only keep you warm but also add a layer of charm to your photos.
Footwear for Function and Style
Let’s not forget your feet! Sturdy, stylish boots are perfect for navigating frost-tipped grass or cobbled paths. They can add a rustic touch to your outfit while keeping you comfortable – because nothing kills the vibe of a romantic photoshoot quite like cold toes!
Styling your engagement shoot is about reflecting who you are as a couple. Whether you’re classic, bold, or laid-back, your outfits and accessories should complement the season while letting your personalities shine through.
Posing and Planning for Winter Light
Winter light has a way of making everything feel softer and more romantic. But with shorter days and the unique challenges of winter’s weather, it’s worth planning carefully to make the most of your photoshoot.
Making the Most of Natural Light
Timing is everything when it comes to winter photography. Golden hour – the time just after sunrise or before sunset – is your best friend, casting a warm glow over your photos. In winter, this magical window comes earlier in the morning and late in the afternoon, so planning your shoot around these times is key.
Locations also play a big role. Open spaces with plenty of natural light, like Tythe’s orchard and mature grounds, are perfect for capturing those luminous, dreamy moments. Reflective surfaces, such as frosted fields, a pond, or one of Tythe’s water troughs can amplify the light and create breath-taking effects.
Poses for Natural, Romantic Photos
Winter is all about warmth and connection, so embrace poses that feel close and intimate. Wrapping up together in a huge, woollen blanket, holding hands as you walk through frost-capped fields, or leaning in for a soft forehead kiss are perfect for capturing the tenderness of your relationship.
Movement-based poses can bring a sense of playfulness and energy to your shoot. Think spinning your partner around, throwing a snowball (if you’re lucky enough to have snow), or strolling hand-in-hand through a woodland path. These natural moments often make for the most memorable shots.
Don’t Be Afraid to Pause
Sometimes, the best photos happen when you’re not posing at all. Take a moment to laugh together, steal a quick hug, or enjoy the stillness of the winter landscape. A good photographer will capture these candid moments, which often tell your love story better than any posed shot ever could.
With the right poses and a little planning around light, winter’s shorter days and unique beauty become assets, not obstacles. It’s all about embracing the season and letting your connection shine through.
Weather-Proofing Your Shoot
Winter’s charm comes with its quirks – crisp mornings, unexpected showers, or even a gentle snowfall. The secret to a successful engagement shoot between the months of November to February lies in being prepared for anything Mother Nature might throw your way.
Planning for the Unexpected
Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to winter shoots. If your photographer allows it, consider having a backup date in case the weather isn’t on your side. Overcast skies can add a moody, romantic vibe, but heavy rain might mean rescheduling is the better option.
Practicality is key, so pack a kit of winter essentials: hand warmers to keep fingers toasty between shots, a thermos of tea or coffee for quick warm-ups, and waterproof footwear to navigate damp terrain. Neutral-toned umbrellas are also a great idea – they’ll keep you dry and won’t detract from your photos. At Tythe, we love the clear, domed umbrellas that offer a bit of charm on those wet-weather days!
Turning Challenges into Charm
What if it does rain or snow? Embrace it! Light snowfall can create a whimsical backdrop, while raindrops glistening on paths can add a touch of drama to your shots. Your photographer can use the weather to enhance your photos, capturing reflections in puddles or the soft glow of diffused light through mist.
A wet ground might seem like a nuisance, but it can create stunning reflections that add depth and character to your images. A shared umbrella or a cosy embrace in the rain can result in some of the most memorable, romantic shots from your day.
Keep Warm and Comfortable
Cold couples don’t look their best in photos, so prioritise staying warm. Layer your outfits, but don’t be afraid to sneak in extra warmth underneath – a thermal vest or tights can make a world of difference. And if your photographer suggests a quick break to warm up, take it. A happy, comfortable couple will always shine on camera.
Winter’s unpredictability is part of its magic, and by weather-proofing your shoot, you’ll be ready to capture the beauty of the season no matter what.
Adding Personal Touches to Your Shoot
Your engagement shoot isn’t just about beautiful photos – it’s about capturing your story. Winter’s backdrop offers the perfect canvas to weave in personal details that make your session truly unique.
Choosing Meaningful Locations
Where did your love story begin? Choosing a location that holds personal significance can add layers of meaning to your photos. At Tythe, couples often find the rustic charm of our grounds, the warm glow of the barn, or the quiet romance of the surrounding fields a perfect fit for their story.
Incorporating Shared Passions
Your hobbies, interests, or shared traditions can add a playful or heartfelt element to your shoot. Are you both avid readers? Bring along a couple of books to incorporate into your session. Do you have a beloved pet? Let them join in! A furry friend adds warmth and spontaneity to your photos.
Even seasonal traditions, like a favourite winter drink or an annual Valentine’s Day tradition, can make for special moments. Imagine toasting with your favourite coffee cups or recreating your first Valentine’s date – it’s these little things that make your photos unmistakably yours.
Subtle Romantic Touches
If you’re a big romantic there are many ways you can add a nod to this within the shoot. A handwritten note, a red rose bouquet or even heart-shaped props can all bring a sense of authenticity and celebration without feeling overdone. Let your photographer capture those meaningful details – your partner holding the bouquet or the two of you reading the note together.
Adding personal touches to your engagement shoot not only reflects who you are as a couple but also makes the day itself even more enjoyable. It’s your love story – don’t be afraid to let it shine.
The Magic of Winter
A winter engagement shoot offers a rare kind of romance. With thoughtful planning, personal touches, and a little flexibility, you can turn a chilly winter day into a warm and cherished memory. The secret is to embrace the season and let it’s beauty work as your perfect backdrop.
At Tythe, we’ve seen how winter’s magic creates timeless moments for couples. If you’re dreaming of an engagement shoot, our stunning countryside setting offers the ideal stage for your story. During our quieter months and only by prior agreement, couples can book a session with their photographer on the *Tythe estate.
*PLEASE NOTE – Engagement Shoots are strictly by appointment only, subject to approval and there are limited opportunities throughout Tythe’s off-peak season.
