Photography during the winter months is both challenging and exhilarating. Some aspects of taking pictures are easier while other aspects are exponentially more difficult, particularly when working outdoors. Cold temperatures will numb fingers and rapidly drain camera batteries. Snow and moisture can damage our equipment while making it harder to carry and protect cameras, lenses, tripods, and the rest of our gear. On balance, the light can be softer because it is often filtered by clouds and diffused by abundant snow. Shadows are more pronounced, creating more contrast and interest. Colorful subjects really stand out against a white background. In many cases the positives can outweigh the negatives as long as a photographer makes the appropriate preparations.
One way a photographer can prepare for the cold and snowy outdoor conditions is in choosing clothing. Warm socks and removable insulating layers should be covered with windproof shell garments and good waterproof boots. Sunglasses will protect our eyes as we travel to the area we want to photograph but they are sometimes an impediment to actually taking those photographs. The most problematic body part to be protected is our hands and fingers. We need the dexterity to manipulate our camera and other gear but we do not want to risk cold injuries. For me, the best solution is wool fingerless gloves covered by wool mittens. The mittens provide excellent insulation and protection while waiting for the scene to develop (as when photographing wildlife) and the fingerless gloves allow for the freedom we need to operate the camera controls.
A key issue that needs to be resolved is the shortened life of batteries in cold weather. The charge life of all batteries is reduced in the cold, sometimes dramatically. Unfortunately, digital cameras cannot function without sufficient battery power. My solution to this is multifaceted and it starts with multiple batteries. I normally carry three extra fully charged batteries during the winter, plus the battery already in the camera. I keep the spare batteries in an inner pocket, close to my body and safely inside a plastic bag to protect them from any moisture. If the temperatures are below freezing, I will add a chemical hand warmer to help keep the batteries as warm as possible. This is also helpful for your hands, too.
If you drive to a photographic site, remember to bring some high energy food that is not really affected by cold (nuts and chocolate come to mind). Bring water as well since we do not always notice dehydration signs in the winter like we do in the summer. And a restorative hot beverage like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate can provide a nice reward for a cold day in the field. Also make sure before your trip that your vehicle is prepared for the winter weather. Being stranded at the end of a long day of photography is no fun.
Winter photography can be a joy is you are prepared, or it can be misery if you are not. I like the inherent drama of snow and ice, particularly if it can be contrasted with a brilliant blue sky. Some birds and animals are easier to photograph in winter as they are conserving energy and are often near food sources. Get outside and learn how to best shoot the winter scenes. There is a beautiful snowy world waiting you to capture it with your camera.