Every year, in January, I get what I call the “winter blues.” My Instagram and Facebook feeds are flooded with photos from professional photographers in the south who still have beautiful scenery and greenery. Whereas, here in Michigan… the grass is dead, the skies are most always gray, and often the windchill makes going outside unbearable. Moreover, over the past few years, we’ve had less and less picture-perfect, fluffy, chunky snow.

My world transitions from outdoor, senior photos in the fall, to the vibrant business and rush of the holiday season, and then everything slows down. Shoots and sessions screech to a halt and I start to get into a funk where I question my photography skills. I know it’s crazy, but it’s what normally happens.

Last year, I told myself things were going to change; I made a goal for myself to work on business branding once January hit. Also, I thought it would be a good time to tackle those pesky projects that have been on my “to-do” list for a while. I’m happy to report that I got so much accomplished and it felt great! Bonus: the “winter blues” stayed away (for the most part!).

This year, I made a goal to get outside more and capture gorgeous, fun winter photos. Around early November, I purchased the new Canon R6 mirrorless but only used it for a few sessions.

When I woke up on Tuesday, I saw beautiful, white, fluffy snow. EVERYWHERE. And I knew exactly what camera would be used to capture it. Now, I only had to find someone to photograph.

The daughter of a previous client agreed to be my muse and we met at the local nature center after school. As soon as we got there it started to snow again! To say I was happy is an understatement! Alexis and I bundled up and then spent the next hour walking the trails. Alexis was such a great sport and smiled through it all, even after her fingers turned red and numb from throwing snow too many times. Don’t worry, I gave her my gloves to warm her hands up!

Here are a few of my favorites! Enjoy! 🙂