Hi there! Winter photography in Ireland can be… unpredictable, to say the least. One minute it’s sunny, the next we’re running for shelter with a hot chocolate in hand. But that’s part of the charm, isn’t it?!
I remember an extended family session I did one January at Kilkenny Castle. Some of the family had flown in from another country, so there was no wiggle room to move the date. It was bitterly cold and rain felt imminent, but we powered through. They came prepared with layers and thermals, and Mum even brought hot drinks for everyone to keep spirits high. We got beautiful shots outdoors before heading inside for more and honestly, that unexpected mix gave them such great variety in their final gallery.
That’s what I love about this time of year. Even when the weather throws us a curveball, we can still create something meaningful together.
Making Winter Sessions Work for You
Here are some helpful things to consider when you’re deciding what kind of Winter session is right for your family…
1. Consider Your Location Options
Some places just hold their colour and texture beautifully all year round. Lough Boora in Co. Offaly is a favourite of mine, even in winter, the heathers, tall grasses and evergreen trees keep the background feeling alive.
If outdoors is your pick, we can also choose locations with shelter options to duck into if the skies open up. Or, consider your own home! We could get some cosy photos at home first and then pop into your garden or the local park afterwards. It works perfectly.
Flexible timing helps too. If there’s a dry spot in the afternoon, we can shift things around on the day to catch the best light.
2. Embrace the Layers and Textures
Winter wardrobes are full of photography gold. Chunky knits, colourful scarves, cosy coats, woolly hats, thermals under dresses… all of this adds interest and helps everyone feel warm and comfortable.
Kids especially love the chance to throw on their wellies and jump in puddles and I promise, those are usually the shots you’ll treasure most.
If you’re planning an indoor session, softer textures like blankets and natural tones work well in a home setting.
3. Variety for the Win!
One thing I loved about that Kilkenny session was how it gave the family a combination of indoor and outdoor photos. That variety gave them a well-rounded gallery with different moods and moments.
If weather allows, we can plan a mixed session; spend some time inside with gentle, relaxed portraits, then head out for some genuine outdoor connection. Even in twenty minutes, we can capture plenty.
4. Light Matters, But So Does Connection
Natural daylight in winter tends to sit lower in the sky and can be especially soft and flattering. Indoors or out, I’ll always seek out the best light to keep things natural and beautiful. And don’t worry if your house can feel like a cave sometimes, I have a light that I always bring to indoor sessions that makes it look like your house is flooded with natural light (even when its not!).
But light isn’t everything. Connection between you and your family is what really makes a photo sing. That’s what I focus on most – real emotion, real warmth, regardless of what the clouds are doing above us.
It’s Not About Weather – It’s About What Feels Right
Ultimately, winter photoshoots are all about embracing what’s real. Whether you’re gathered around your kitchen table or snuggled into coats on a woodland path, these quiet off-season moments can become your most meaningful memories.
So don’t worry too much about the forecast. We’ll plan together, stay flexible, and you’ll walk away with beautiful images no matter where we shoot.
Ready to Plan Your Own Winter Session?
If you’re thinking about booking a session during the colder months, I’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re drawn to relaxed family photography in Offaly or want a natural at-home session, we’ll make it work…coats, cuddles, and all.
You can learn more about sessions and get in touch directly HERE
And remember, sometimes, the best photos come from those unexpectedly cold days, a cup of hot chocolate in hand and a family willing to make memories either way.
