When we think of “Holiday Photos,” we often picture the same thing: stiff poses, matching red pajamas, and artificial studio lights. While those serve a purpose, I believe your family deserves something more.
As a Rochester NY holiday photographer with a fine art background, I approach the winter season differently. I don’t see the cold as a barrier; I see it as a texture.
The low winter sun in the Finger Lakes creates a crisp, clean light that you just can’t get in July. The contrast of wool coats against the white snow or the deep greens of a pine forest creates a natural, sculptural quality that turns a holiday card into a piece of art.
Why Choose “Lifestyle” Over “Posed” for the Holidays?
The holiday season is already stressful enough. Dragging your children to a crowded studio often leads to meltdowns and forced smiles.
A winter lifestyle session is different. We meet outdoors—perhaps at a tree farm in Penfield or a quiet trail in Mendon Ponds. We let the kids run in their boots. We capture the steam of their breath as they laugh, and the genuine warmth of a family huddling together against the chill.
These aren’t just photos for a card that gets thrown away in January. These are memories of a specific season in your life.
Local Inspiration: Where to Shoot in Rochester?
Upstate New York offers stunning backdrops if you know where to look. Here are a few of my favorite aesthetics for winter sessions:
- The Minimalist Snowscape: Using the open fields of Pittsford, Mendon, Webster or Victor to create clean, high-key images where your family is the focus.
- The Tree Farm Texture: We can head to a local Christmas tree farm, not for “props,” but for the beautiful lines and deep green textures that frame your family perfectly.
- The Urban Winter: The historic brick and architecture of downtown Rochester looks incredible dusted in snow, offering a modern twist on the holiday portrait.
Styling Your Winter Session
As a ceramicist, I love texture. Winter is the best season for this. Instead of matching “Christmas” outfits, I recommend:
- Layers: Chunky knit sweaters, wool scarves, and velvet.
- Earthy Tones: Deep burgundies, forest greens, creams, and charcoals stand out beautifully against the snow.
- Movement: Wear clothes you can move in. We will be walking, playing, and embracing the cold!
Capture the Season Before It Melts
There are limited dates remaining for the 2025 holiday season. Whether you need a last-minute image for your New Year’s card or simply want to document your family in this beautiful winter light, I would love to tell your story.