At the time of writing, it is 6:01 PM CST on Sunday, November 7, 2021.
Might as well be 10 pm for how dark it is.
This morning marked the end of Daylight Saving Time, which means sunset is getting earlier and earlier, and it gets darker sooner. This is a hot-button, controversial topic, I know; I also know it probably isn’t going away anytime soon (unless current legislation makes major moves). This means that anyone planning a wedding between November and March will happen under the cover of night.
This is NOT bad–not at all. IN fact, there are some really, REALLY cool things that can be done during this time of year to make for a unique wedding experience. There are so many amazing winter wedding photo ideas we can use, but here are my favorite three:
- SPARKLER ENTRANCE
We’ve all heard of the sparkler exit, but have you thought about using it as your entrance? During a winter wedding, that is a fun idea! Rather than having the sparklers lead you out of your reception, your guests can line us and use them to welcome you to your party!
- MOONLIGHT* PORTRAITS
Sunset portraits are all the rage, but moonlight portraits can be excellent, too. This does require a little extra equipment (particularly off-camera flash from your photographer), but it can be as gorgeous as those illuminated by sunset. This is by far one of my favorite winter wedding photo ideas, especially if there is a light snowfall to reflect like glitter. So pretty.
*”Moonlight” can also mean streetlamp light or bright falling snow light…both of which are beautiful.
- WORK THAT VENUE DECOR
If it is just too dark or too cold, you can always bank on that gorgeous venue you chose. Again, your photographer should be able to provide appropriate off-camera lighting to make these just as bright and bold as they would be in natural light, so don’t be afraid to ask for portraits in front of that fireplace or the lit tree or candles. Winter wedding photos can include other seasonal elements besides the outdoors.
Just because it’s dark doesn’t mean you can’t have gorgeous photos. Photographing in winter is actually one of my favorite times because it is so unique and provides one-of-a-kind portrait opportunities that only come in this season. Live it up, and enjoy the amazing perks of being a winter wedding!
Kayla Lee is a Minnesota-based wedding and elopement photographer. She provides services to elegant, authentic, sentimental couples who not only choose their own adventures, but also live them to the fullest! See more about the KLP Wedding Experience!
