Tips for Photographing Boudoir in the Snow

We got about eight inches of snow in Asheville last week, and I was so excited to be able to do some snow boudoir photography! I originally planned on being out in the woods somewhere, but then I visited the parking garage near my studio. The top level was pristine snow, and I wanted to be a little out of the box with my location. I was worried I wouldn’t find anyone who was down to be on a parking garage downtown in the snow in their underwear, but I had TWO wonderful women volunteer. They were such troopers, and I am in love with their images!

Muse in above photo: Ana-Alicia

Muse in below photo: Katie of Embrace Yourself Whole

ONE

Check in with your model a lot! Let them know it’s ok to stop the session at any time. Their safety is the priority. You are probably wearing more clothes than them, so they are not necessarily warm even if you are. They’re probably a badass for even agreeing to this in the first place, so they might not complain. Keep an eye out for them getting very quiet, turning purple, etc…

TWO

Bring hand warmers for the model’s pockets. This goes along with point number one, but it’s something I didn’t do this time, and I wish I had! The model’s hands were the first things to get cold (and turn red), and this would have gone a long way in helping.

THREE

Prioritize your shots! You may have less time with the model than you planned, so go ahead and get the shots you most want first.

FOUR

Bring something for the model to lay or sit on. I used a faux fur and highly recommend it. My models said they felt very warm on it, and it did not let snow soak through easily. I have a ton of faux furs, and I can always find them for cheap at TJ Maxx and Ross.

FIVE

Incorporate warm clothes. Letting the model wear boots and socks and a thick jacket will add to the winter vibes and help your model stay warm longer.

SIX

Don’t run from the sun! Normally I like to do outdoor shoots at golden hour, but I don’t mind sunny snow shoots. Why? Because the snow acts as a giant reflector all around you filling in the would-be harsh shadows. Plus, it’s nice to be in the sun for warmth.

SEVEN

Be prepared to use manual or add more exposure if using any auto camera settings. Your camera’s meter will be tricked by all the bright white snow and want to underexpose, making the snow look too dark.