Wintertime is always a struggle as a blogger trying to produce lifestyle content. This is my second winter of trying to secure the right pictures for the gram and I’ve put together a list of tips and tricks that have helped me make it through!
Choose Indoor Locations
This may seem like a no brainer but it is actually easier said than done, especially when you consider that indoor lighting may be harder to deal with. As I make my way through the city for various events or errands, I try my best to make a mental note of any cool indoor spaces that catch my eye for a photoshoot. By keeping a running list, you are always prepared in the event that you planned an outdoor shoot but the weather doesn’t cooperate. Here are some of my favorites:
- Train stations: Your options are limited if you live in New York because the subways are incredibly dirty. However, despite the small number of metro train stations we have, some of them are incredibly beautiful. If you’re bent on using a subway station, I’d recommend heading to a newer station. In New York, the Second Avenue line is still new and fairly clean as a result. The Oculus at World Trade Center came in super clutch for a cold day photoshoot. The train station is actually a shopping mall so there are plenty of stories if you feel like fitting in some shopping after your shoot. Its warm and has incredibly cool architecture. Because of the windows and all white interior, lighting shouldn’t be too much of an issue since it allows natural light to enter and has a bright, white interior. Keep in mind that since it is a train station (and sort of a tourist destination now too), it is almost always going to have people so you may have to be flexible when it comes to the “perfect shot”. Grand Central Station is another popular destination for photoshoots however the lighting there is harder to work with and you also may need a permit to set up a photoshoot so it may not be worth it!
- Hotels & Restaurants: People sleep on hotels and their beautiful lobbies that can be perfect for some unique lifestyle photography. This can definitely be a hit or miss because you probably have to ask hotel lobby staff for permission. I recently snapped some pictures at The Nolitan Hotel in Soho and I was obsessed with their hotel lobby decor. NoMo Soho is a another favorite among bloggers because of their beautiful entryway. The hotel also has a beautiful restaurant where you can grab brunch (and a couple of pictures) afterward!
- Your Home: Sometimes taking pictures within the comfort of your own home is the way to go. However I know firsthand that this only works if you have an aesthetically pleasing living situation that you’re comfortable posting or if you’ve invested in at home studio equipment. If you fall into either category it’s worth it every now and then to post a picture you’ve snapped at home. My at home studio pics are always self-portraits so I don’t need to depend on anyone else and I can work based on my schedule.
- Libraries, Museums, and Work Spaces: The New York Public Library is another beautiful indoor photo spot! That goes to show how sometimes you may have to think outside of the box but there are a decent amount of locations where you can get the perfect shot and stay warm too! Museums are a great option too but the only drawback is the price of entry and rules around photography. That doesn’t mean it’s not worth considering! Other ideas are common workspaces like WeWork and The Wing in Brooklyn. Not sure what their picture policies are but I figure they are pretty open.
Choose Spots Near Cafes
If you can’t manage to find an indoor location, or you’ve exhausted all of those options already, the next best option is to plan on using a location close to a cafe. Why? When you start to get too cold, you can quickly run inside for a break. If you’ve got multiple looks, you won’t have to spend time searching for a place to change. Simply use the restroom at the cafe. This is exactly what I did when I had a photoshoot near Cha Cha Matcha, a super pretty pink and green cafe, and it worked out perfectly.
Plan Ahead
When you’ve really got no other option but to brave the cold, planning ahead is crucial. That means have pictures in mind for yourself so that you know what poses to do. Show them to your photographer so that they know exactly what you want. This goes without saying for every photoshoot you have but it’s especially important when you’re pressed for time because you’re running the risk of getting sick!
Final Thoughts
Of course the last point on my list would be to dress warm. Yes, we want the perfect picture for the gram or blog, but nothing should come before your health. Besides, you should stunting and styling in winter pieces too because that’s going to give people realistic style inspiration. How do you cope with photoshoots in the winter? Let me know in the comments!
“While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, And cold and heat, And summer and winter, And day and night Shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22
