The magic of falling snow is worth stepping outside for winter family photos in Lake Placid. Mary Dougherty is based in the Adirondacks, where winter is a season you learn to love. In this post not only will you find beautiful images, but advice on when to shoot in Lake Placid / Saranac Lake and what to wear. Reach out to start planning your shoot.
For the Leonard family, little Charlie was several months old and just learning how to walk. We shot both inside and out so that we could handle the temperatures. It was so good to see this family again after shooting their wedding a few years prior. Many people find that establishing a relationship with a photographer makes the experience easier for everyone. In fact, Rachael shared these words after our shoot :
Now Steve and I have worked with Mary in the past with engagement and wedding photos and had such an unbelievable experience with her. We were amazed by the pictures she took of us that day. So it was an absolute no brainer for me to work with her again.
– Rachael
Best time to capture winter family photos
While the weather can be unpredictable, in the Northeast it is consistently snowy in January and February. Planning to photograph your family while visiting over the end of December / early January is best for those coming for a holiday. If you want to come up for a ski weekend at Whiteface or just enjoy the snow come in January. To enjoy the events of Saranac Lake’s Winter Carnival and famed Ice Palace, visit in the first two weekends of February.
What to wear for winter photos
The best advice I have for those planning winter family photos in Lake Placid or another snowy place… is to layer. Make sure that there are jackets you want to be photographed in, and choose something for the kids that will fit your colors. I recommend choosing 3-5 colors to structure your outfits around. In this case camel, navy and grey were the main players. The outdoor setting was simple and textured with snowy green trees white snow so that variety keeps the images interesting. Bring hand warmers, toe warmers (if necessary) and try to be close to an indoor location if you need to warm up.
See these past winter sessions for more inspiration : ONE / TWO / THREE
