Winter brings out the toughest elements in our climate with many people putting away their cameras until early spring. If you’re in that group, you could be missing out on the beauty this season brings. Instead of staying inside and enjoying the warmth, why not take your camera for a walk and photograph the uniqueness of winter.

Below are a few tips to make the trip more enjoyable.

1. Wear the right clothes. It’s important to dress warmly when outside shooting winter images. I don’t go anywhere without my Under Armour, it keeps me warm and I can stay outside for longer periods of time. Don’t forget your waterproof boots and a pair of socks to keep your feet warm and dry.

2. Watch the weather. It’s important to know what the weather is going to be like beforehand. During the winter months, the weather can dramatically change in a matter of hours so be sure to check the weather report before leaving home. Also, if you like to photograph alone always let someone know where you are going and which route you’re planning to take. If you do get injured or ever caught in a storm someone may be able to help. Plan ahead.

3. Carry only what you need. You don’t need to bring every piece of equipment you own.  A wide-angle and a telephoto lens should be more than enough. If you’re going to be out taking pictures all day you’re much better off going as light as possible. Carrying a light load will also help preserve energy. You could be climbing icy rocks or crossing snow filled hills. A thermos of hot tea would serve you better than four lenses and an extra camera body.

4. Look for detail.  The early frosty morning is an ideal time for close-up photography because it brings out patterns in landscapes whereas snow, ice, and frost bring out texture and atmosphere. Don’t forget to look for icicles that may be hanging from gutters or tree branches.

Be careful where you position your camera. If you’re taking pictures early in the morning try positioning your camera at oblique angles to the sun, this will give your images strong shadows and add mood to your landscape images. Once you’ve found the perfect spot pay extra attention to foreground interest as this will add depth to your image.

5. Expose carefully. Snow and ice are difficult to expose properly because snow confuses your camera’s metering system or your handheld light meter. When you take a light reading from snow you will automatically get an underexposed image. The meter will record the snow as grey so increase your exposure compensation or use the programmed snow scene setting if your camera has one.

Happy shooting and stay warm!