There's a lot to keep in mind when you're scheduling your engagement photos, from what you should (and shouldn't!) wear to how to make your pictures feel more natural and authentic. But if you're heading out for an engagement session with your photographer during the winter, there are a few more things to think about. Here are six easy tips for staying warm and making the most of your winter session.

Wintertime engagement photography portrait at Yates Mill Park in Raleigh NCThe bride to be receives a kiss on her cheek in front of the waterfall at Yates Mill Park in Raleigh NC during her engagement photography session.

1. Think About How You Feel When You're out in the Cold  If you get grouchy when you're cold, your discomfort will show in the photographs. But if you don't mind (or even love) the cold? Wait until there's a considerable amount of snow on the ground, and be sure to schedule a few back-up dates with me in case of a blizzard or sudden melt.

2. Don't Be Afraid to Bundle Up  My favorite tip is to wear fleece-lined tights under my jeans or pants. I also suggest that my clients layer cozy knits, like a sweater or a cowl scarf, grab a bright winter coat, and put on a pair of finger-less gloves. Winter accessories can be really cute, plus, it makes more sense visually to be dressed for winter if you're being photographed in the snow!

3. Time It Right In general, I prefer to schedule my shoots for the last hour before sunset, no matter the season. In winter, this means we typically start around 4 p.m. to take advantage of the snow and capture its sparkle.  I avoid scheduling a session in the middle of the day, because the midday light is extremely bright, which reflects too much light off of the snow and which might make you squint.

4. Pick an Extra-Wintery Location  If you live somewhere wooded, you're in luck! Pine trees really add to an image because they contrast so much with the white snow. The  needles and bark have great texture, which pulls the viewer into the image. I love capturing engagement portraits in all of our nearby park locations here in the Raleigh area where the slightly cooler temperatures mean that the snow's more fresh and fluffy. Not into the natural vibe? Winter sessions downtown can be just as stunning. City and holiday lights will add some beautiful bokeh (out-of-focus, colorful blurry light spots) in the background. Paired with a chic winter outfit, an urban setting can really highlight the season.

5. Take Breaks  Even if you've layered up with sweaters and scarves, you might want a few minutes to pop inside to warm up. There are quite a few places where we can go to take outside pictures but still find an indoor location to warm up in between photos. It also might be a great idea to pack a thermos with hot chocolate or coffee to bring with you during your session. Having a little hot cocoa is a great way to re-energize. It can make for great photos too!

6. Hope for Snow  Falling snow creates a lovely, romantic feel, as well as a really beautiful light. Since you can't necessarily time your engagement session to coincide with a snowstorm, if you bring a friend with you during your shoot, we create the same effect by having your bestie throw fresh snow up in the air over you. It would also be great for us to hold your engagement session as soon after a storm as possible. That way, the snow will be at its prettiest, before it's been plowed or walked on too much.

Meredith College engagement photography portrait