As winter approaches and temperatures drop, sometimes we get what I like to call “nuisance snow”. That’s when about an inch of snow falls and stays on the ground for about a day. It’s more like a tease of winter, rather than the beginning. Even though astronomical winter starts on 21 December, sometimes the observed weather is uncooperative.
In my mind, winter really begins with the first real snowfall. By that I mean some significant amount of snow, at least several inches, with temperatures that assure the snow will stay for a longer period than a day or two. Sometimes we are shocked when winter starts with an early November snow dump. But in other years we are surprised by the opposite, with the first good snowfall coming some time in January.
After that first snowfall, significant or not, it is also a good time to go out for winter-themed photographs. At this time the sunlight is usually filtered by clouds, so shadows are soft but the various color highlights in the landscape often stand out. If you are interested in bird or wildlife photos, they are usually actively looking for food after the snow. And when the snow is of moderate depth, it works well to quiet our footsteps through the woods.
Of course, with snow comes wet and cold conditions. Wear appropriate clothing and take some “survival gear” if you are going into the woods (snacks, water, fire making, and possibly shelter components). Remember to take some camera survival gear too; like extra batteries, memory cards, and some plastic bags to protect your camera. Also have a plastic zip-top bag to enclose your camera when you return indoors so that any condensation forms on the bag, not on your camera.
The first significant snowfall, however you define it, is a great time to be outside. Conditions are usually good for photography, as well as recreation (hiking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and even camping). Winter and snow presents a number of possibilities, it’s just a matter of which one you choose.