Winter Family Photography in Sunriver, Oregon: Capturing Generations in the Snow
There is something so special about winter family photography sessions, especially when you add grandparents into the mix. This past December, I had the pleasure of photographing a wonderful family in Sunriver, Oregon, capturing three generations together amidst the beauty of a snow-draped landscape. Sunriver’s serene winter setting provided the perfect backdrop for heartfelt moments and timeless memories.
The Setting Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, Sunriver is a winter haven with its snow-covered pine trees, open meadows, and crisp mountain air. The day of the session was picture-perfect, with soft snowfall creating a magical atmosphere. We chose a location near the Deschutes River, where the surrounding scenery offered a mix of snowy woods and frozen water features that added depth and variety to the photos.
The Family The family included two parents, their two energetic children, and the grandparents, whose warmth and love radiated throughout the session. It was clear how much this family cherished their time together, and incorporating the grandparents added a meaningful layer to the shoot. Seeing the kids interact with their grandparents—sharing laughs, hugs, and snowball fights—was truly heartwarming.
Capturing the Moments We started with some group shots to highlight the whole family together. The snow created a natural reflector, providing even and flattering light for everyone. The grandparents held hands while the little ones huddled close, creating images filled with connection and joy.
Next, we moved on to smaller groupings. I captured tender moments between the grandparents and each grandchild, as well as candid shots of the kids playing in the snow. One of my favorite images was of the whole family walking together through the snow, leaving footprints that told a story of togetherness.
Winter Photography Tips Photographing in the winter can present unique challenges, but the results are always worth it. Here are some tips I used during this session:
Plan for Warmth: Everyone wore layers under their outfits to stay warm without sacrificing style. I encouraged the family to bring coats, gloves, and scarves that could be easily removed for certain shots.
Incorporate Movement: The kids loved running and playing, which added a natural, energetic feel to the photos. Movement also helped keep everyone warm and comfortable.
Embrace the Environment: The snow and trees provided plenty of texture and visual interest. We used the natural surroundings to frame shots and add variety to the composition.
Timing is Key: We planned the session for late afternoon to take advantage of the soft, diffused light, but we also stayed flexible to work around the family’s needs and the winter weather.
Final Thoughts This family’s Sunriver winter session was a beautiful reminder of the importance of preserving memories with loved ones, especially across generations. The laughter, love, and connection captured in these photos are moments they can treasure forever.
If you’re considering a winter family session, Sunriver is a stunning location that offers endless possibilities for creating magical images. Let’s make your family’s winter story one to remember!