Winter sessions are always a gamble in Wisconsin.
You might get dead grass and gray skies… or you might get fresh snowfall and a sunset that makes you forget you can’t feel your fingers. Collin and Amanda’s session almost didn’t happen at all — and honestly, that’s exactly why it turned out so good.
We had a date picked and plans ready to go. Then my GPS confidently took me to… not their location. In fact, I ended up in a location that was 45 minutes away from where I was supposed to be, with a barely there cellphone signal.
Instead of forcing it or rushing the session, we rescheduled. Which ended up being the best possible thing we could’ve done. Plus it was Freezing ass cold out, so I don’t think anyone was that upset. Our new date gave us fresh snow, glowing light, and actual winter magic instead of dull and dead brown. Wisconsin weather finally cooperated for once.
The coolest part of this session? Their location wasn’t a park or public trail. It was their family land right outside their home. (And yes… we absolutely used the side-by-side to explore.) We rode around the property stopping whenever good light or a new backdrop popped up. Woods, open areas, snow-covered paths. Every few minutes felt like a brand new location without ever leaving the property.
Amanda and Collin also brought their dog along and within about five minutes any “What do we do with our hands?” energy disappeared. Dogs fix everything. People stop overthinking, start laughing, and suddenly the photos feel like real life instead of a photoshoot.
Are Winter Engagement Photos Worth It?
Short answer: yes… if you lean into winter instead of fighting it.
Winter sessions work best when you:
- Dress casual and comfortable
- Don’t try to pretend it’s summer
- Expect a little movement (walking over standing still)
- Embrace the season instead of worrying about the cold
The snow softens everything, the light reflects beautifully, and sunsets hit different this time of year. You just have to trust the process a bit. (And maybe warm up in the truck between spots.)
We wrapped up with a soft glow across the snow, quiet woods, and that calm winter evening feel you only get out in the country. Collin and Amanda, thanks for rolling with the chaos, trusting me after my navigation skills failed us, and letting me wander your property with a camera. Winter sessions like this are exactly why I never rule out cold weather engagement photos.
