Let It Snow

Many animals are fairly hardy and active during winter’s harshest conditions. These animals thrive as long as they can find enough food and adequate shelter. This adult male Northern Cardinal is a common year-round species that can be found from desert regions of Mexico to suburban yards of Eastern Canada. 

That’s right – Winter’s coming. But, don’t let that discourage you. Blistering Canadian winters produce unlimited photo opportunities. Besides harsh weather and precarious road conditions, a typical Canadian winter has potential to be vibrant and colourful – full of joyous seasonal spirit. No matter how you approach it, Canadians know how to experience winter, and all its seasonal extremes. 

Although you should always consider “Safety First”, don’t let bad weather slow you down. Visits to local parks, or drives along backroads, can produce some fabulous winter scenes, sometimes with wildlife included. This White-tailed Deer was very accommodating while I walked along a local woodland trail here in Ottawa.

Gone are Autumn’s reds, yellows and browns. The remaining dull tones eventually transition into immaculate snow-covered surfaces, often forming intricate shapes dappled with inviting textures. 

From rustic winter scenery to majestic animals thriving in the snow, Canadian winters portray our unique northern character. If you look carefully, you’ll find much beauty. Even slippery icy conditions can hide attractive objects frozen in the hoar frost. At night, especially in urban areas flooded with festive lights and elaborate decorations, the colours dazzle in the reflective snow. 

Festivities during winter months often include light shows like this one on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. Take advantage of the long winter nights with bright lights and long exposures. 

Many hardy Canadian animals have adapted well to winter’s harshness. They manage extremely well through our most wicked winters as long as they have food and shelter. Sometimes, you can find them meandering through perfect winter scenes.  

Use some creative tricks to enhance your winter night photography. Long exposures with a zoom lens can create interesting effects. 

However, if winter makes you uncomfortable or unproductive, then enjoy the comforts of home while creating next year’s Christmas Card. It’s fairly easy to setup any room into a temporary studio where you can create scenes that portray the joys of the season.  

This winter, unleash your creative energies and just “let it snow”. 

After severe winter weather, you’ll likely be surrounded by its adverse effects. Although winter storms can cause a lot of damage, they can also produce interesting compositions. After a severe bout of freezing rain, this Crab Apple looked like it was covered in holiday frosting. 

Not all winter photography has to be taken while outdoors. Indoor settings and studios help you enjoy the season while in the comfort of your own home. Here, Brooke poses with a hot cup of hot chocolate. – Photo courtesy of Nina Stavlund

Simple and quick studio-like conditions are easy to setup with a minimal amount of props. It doesn’t take much to create next year’s Christmas Card. – Photo courtesy of Nina Stavlund

Amherst Island, Ontario – Dawn and dusk have appealing qualities, especially during our coldest months. This image of dawn on Amherst Island was enhanced by the colour in the vegetation against a pink sunrise. – Photo courtesy of Nina Stavlund

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