Winter family photos in Utah are magical. The crisp air, soft lighting, and cozy vibes make for beautiful, timeless images. But one of the trickiest parts of winter sessions is finding that perfect balance between staying warm and looking polished. Whether you’re scheduling an outdoor session in a snowy park or a cozy spot by a fireplace, dressing in layers and textures will help keep everyone comfortable and looking their best. Here’s a guide to staying comfortable, classic, and stylish in your Utah winter photography session.

Here are some of my favorite pieces for your upcoming winter session.

Layers are Your Best Friend

Layers aren’t just for staying warm—they add visual interest to your photos! Layering with coats, cardigans, scarves, and vests allows you to easily adjust to the temperature while giving your outfit dimension. Think about mixing different types of layers:

• Base Layers: Start with fitted, lightweight pieces that keep warmth close to your body. Thermal tops, soft turtlenecks, or cozy long-sleeves in neutral tones are great options.
• Mid Layers: Add a sweater, cardigan, or vest in a complementary color. This not only keeps you warmer but brings depth to your outfit.
• Outer Layers: A wool coat or pea coat can look incredibly classic and photograph beautifully. Choose timeless colors like camel, navy, or gray, which won’t overpower the photo or clash with others in the family.

Play with Textures

Mixing textures creates rich, interesting visuals, making your photos feel warm and inviting. Here are some ideas:

• Knits and Wools: Chunky knits and cozy wool are perfect for winter. Sweaters with cable knit patterns, woolen coats, or knitted scarves bring warmth and texture.
• Faux Fur and Sherpa: Adding a touch of faux fur or sherpa—whether on the collar of a jacket, in a hat, or as a vest—creates a beautiful contrast and adds an element of coziness.
• Denim and Corduroy: These classic fabrics photograph beautifully, adding texture without overwhelming. Think dark-wash jeans, corduroy pants, or jackets.
• Layered Accessories: Scarves, hats, and gloves in different textures add visual interest while keeping everyone cozy. Try wrapping a scarf loosely or choosing a knitted beanie in a rich tone to complete your look.

Stick to a Classic Color Palette

A classic, coordinated color palette helps tie everyone together and keeps your photos looking timeless. Winter colors that work well include:

• Earth Tones: Warm neutrals, like caramel, olive, and cream, blend seamlessly with natural winter backdrops.
• Cool Neutrals: Grays, whites, and soft blues bring a serene, wintery feel without clashing.
• Deep Accents: A pop of burgundy, forest green, or navy can add richness without overwhelming the photo.

When coordinating as a family, start with a few neutral base colors and then add accents in accessories or outer layers. This helps each person stand out while keeping a cohesive look.

Focus on Functional Footwear

Nothing ruins a session like cold toes! Choose footwear that’s both warm and complements your outfits:

• For the adults, boots are a stylish, practical option. Try to match boot colors with your outfit (e.g., leather in brown or black) to keep things coordinated.
• For kids, waterproof boots with cozy socks keep little feet warm and ready to explore.
• Avoid anything too trendy; instead, go for classic styles that don’t take the focus away from your family’s faces and expressions.

Plan for Comfort and Movement

Family photos mean spending a lot of time together, moving around, and sharing genuine moments. The most beautiful images come from families who feel relaxed and at ease. When choosing layers, make sure everyone can still move freely and comfortably. You want kids to be able to run, jump, and play without feeling restricted.

Winter family photos have a special kind of charm, and dressing well for the cold weather helps you enjoy every moment. Layers and textures bring warmth and visual interest, while timeless colors and classic accessories keep your look sophisticated and enduring. Remember to relax, laugh, and let the love between you shine through—no outfit can outshine genuine joy! Happy layering, and I can’t wait to capture your cozy, classic winter memories at your upcoming Utah winter photography session.

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Best Utah Family Photographer

@lexiraephotography

Park City, Utah County, Salt Lake City