The Ultimate Guide to Winter Family Photos in Minnesota

Winter in Minnesota is more than just cold weather—it’s a season filled with cozy moments, stunning snowy landscapes, and endless opportunities to create cherished family memories. Whether you’re embracing the frost or staying snug indoors, winter offers unique settings for family photography that you’ll treasure for years to come. Here’s everything you need to know about planning and enjoying your winter family photo session.

Why Winter Family Photos Are Magical

Minnesota winters provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable family photos. The snow creates a soft, dreamy aesthetic, and the natural light has a crisp, clean quality that’s hard to replicate. Plus, winter’s cozy vibes make every session feel special—whether you’re bundled up outside or relaxing indoors.

Winter sessions are also perfect for capturing candid, playful moments. Snowball fights, sledding adventures, and snuggles with hot cocoa all make for authentic, joy-filled images. These are the moments that tell your family’s story, and winter gives you the perfect excuse to embrace them.

Top Locations for Winter Family Photos in Minnesota

If you’re ready to embrace the cold, Minnesota’s outdoor spaces offer endless possibilities:

1. Snowy Parks and Trails
   Think scenic backdrops with evergreen trees, sparkling snow, and open spaces perfect for playful shots. Parks like Minnehaha Falls or Lyndale Peace Garden provide stunning natural settings.
2. Tree Farms
   Nothing says winter like rows of frosted evergreen trees. These locations are ideal for festive, holiday-themed photos. *There is usually a permit fee involved, so make sure to double check*

3. Frozen Lakes and Backyard Ice Rinks
   The wide, icy expanse of a frozen lake creates a unique and striking backdrop for family portraits. If you have a backyard ice rink, it’s a fantastic spot for personal, playful photos that showcase your family’s love for winter fun.

Prefer to stay warm? Indoor options can be just as magical:

• Cozy At-Home Sessions
  Capture your family’s day-to-day life with relaxed, intimate moments at home. Think matching pajamas, baking cookies, or reading by the fire.
• Urban Indoor Locations
  Some families love using spaces like libraries, greenhouses (Tonkadale Greenhouse is my favorite!!), or studios to add a modern feel to their photos with added personality.

5 Fun Ideas for Winter Family Photos

1. Snowball Fights and Sledding – Get the whole family moving with a playful snowball fight or sledding session. These activities create dynamic, fun images filled with laughter.
2. Building a Snowman – Relive your childhood and get everyone involved in building a snowman. It’s a classic activity that looks great on camera.
3. Backyard or Neighborhood Ice Rink – Lace up your skates and capture playful, energetic family photos on your backyard or local ice rink, showcasing your family’s love for winter activities.
4. Matching Pajamas – At-home sessions in coordinating PJs are perfect for capturing cozy, relaxed moments with your family.
5. Hot Cocoa and Blankets – Whether outdoors or indoors, snuggling up with hot cocoa under warm blankets creates a sweet, intimate vibe.

Tips for a Successful Winter Session

1. Dress for the Weather
   Layer up! Neutral tones with pops of color photograph beautifully against snowy backdrops. Hats, scarves, and gloves are practical and can add charm to your photos.
2. Keep Kids Comfortable
   Bring hand warmers, snacks, and extra layers to keep little ones happy and warm. Playful breaks, like sledding or snow angels, help them stay engaged.
3. Be Flexible
   Winter weather can be unpredictable, so plan for potential reschedules and embrace the elements—a little snow or overcast skies can make photos even more magical.
4. Make It Fun
   Focus on enjoying the experience with your family. The best photos come from genuine moments of connection and joy.

Why Book a Winter Session?

Winter family photos are a chance to capture your family’s unique personality against a backdrop of seasonal beauty. Whether you’re having a snowball fight, snuggling indoors, or exploring a tree farm, these sessions celebrate what makes this time of year so special. Don’t let the cold hold you back—the memories you create will warm your heart for years to come.

Ready to book your winter family session? Let’s make some magic in the snow!