A Month of Season & Tradition
No matter how big or small the tradition or how observant you are of the season, there are undoubtedly things in your life that you don’t notice. There are also things that are fully unique to you and can make for an interesting storytelling opportunity. One thing holds true, people love to catch those personal glimpses into others lives, and there’s no better time to lean into your space and creativity all at once. If you think about it, it’s the opportunity to connect on a personal level that draws you toward others on social media. Think what you like about your favorites versus someone you follow that who have completely forgotten about (look back at this post on staying relevant, Don’t Be Forgotten). What’s the primary difference?
Unless you’re strictly shooting outdoors, taking photos inside can be incredibly challenging. I strongly recommend a blend of both indoors and out, if you have the opportunity. The best time to reflect and connect with others is in the winter months when others are online more doing the same thing. As we make the shift into the darker, rainy, shorter days, we find ourselves under blankets and wondering when we’ll see the sun again. There’s a lot of opportunity to get your camera out still, but it takes a little more effort than any other time of year. If you’re all all wondering, what do I shoot and how do I shoot? You’re not alone.
Take advantage of winter light
Seek a light source and get near to use that to light up your subject. Even a little light can be all you need for a good moody winter photo.
Cozy always wins
Few things are better received than a warm, cozy image. Add blankets, pillows, candles, and anything that feels inviting, adds texture, or character.
Get outside
It’s not easy leaving the warm indoors, but there are opportunities you wouldn’t get otherwise to capture the season.
Don’t work against winter
Lean into the mood of the season, embrace the lower light, add ambience with candles, lamps, and twinkle lights. Know that there’s tradition, whimsy, character, and a storytelling element of living through winter to tell.
Look for change
Whether inside or out, what changes? Whether changing decor, adding things for the holidays, notice a nearby field has turned brown, the sun sets earlier, the frost of the morning, or any other opportunity for how the season and holidays bring new and different to your everyday scenes. Even the last breath of life in a bouquet, your garden, or the landscape can be beautiful.
Look closely, look widely
Get close to see small details. Stand back for the wide view. Getting that variety of near and far in your photos is how you tell a story through visual documentation. Then add in new angles and change your perspective for added variety.