Winter Wedding Photography: Capturing PHOTOGRAPHS in the Cold on Long Island


Winter on Long Island is a solid time for wedding photos. The snow, frost, and low light give you something different—clean, crisp shots that stand out. I’ve been shooting here for years, and winter’s one of my favorite seasons to work with. If you’re thinking about a winter wedding, here’s why it works and how to make the photos worth it.


What Makes Winter Work


Long Island in winter is all about contrast. Snow on the ground at Oheka Castle or icy waves at Jones Beach make for sharp backgrounds. The light’s softer than summer—low on the horizon, no harsh shadows. I shot a bride once at Montauk with snow on the cliffs; her white dress popped against it. Vineyards on the North Fork look good too, all bare and frosty.


Tips for Winter Shots


Here’s what I’ve figured out from doing this a while:

  • Layer Up: Throw on a coat or shawl. Keeps you warm and looks good in photos. Grooms can add a scarf or heavier jacket.
  • Go Outside: Snow or frost beats an indoor setup any day. Caumsett State Park or Sunken Meadow are solid spots. I’ll keep it fast so you don’t freeze.
  • Time It Right: Late afternoon—around 3 or 4 p.m.—gets you that warm light against the cold. Works well at Old Westbury Gardens.
  • Inside Option: If it’s too brutal out, Long Island’s got venues with fireplaces or big windows. I’ve shot plenty by a fire that turned out great.
  • Footwear: Boots for walking, swap to heels or dress shoes for the shot. I’ll bring a blanket if it’s rough.


A Shoot That Stuck With Me

One January at Planting Fields Arboretum, snow hit mid-ceremony. We went outside after, and I got the couple under an oak tree as flakes fell. They were laughing, messing around—it was a good frame. Winter’s unpredictable, but that’s why it delivers.


Wedding couple stands in front of a grand white-columned building with red brick and manicured gardens.
A couple shares a romantic dip kiss on a brick pathway with church architecture and autumn foliage in the background.
Elegant couple sitting together on antique settee in ornate room with blue walls and floral wallpaper details.
Beautiful church wedding ceremony with Christmas poinsettias decorating the altar steps in a Gothic arched sanctuary.
Wedding couple walk hand in hand down snowy tree-lined road at sunset with light bubbles floating through the air.
A white wedding gown with a long train is photographed on a brick path surrounded by snowy evergreen trees.
Elegant couple poses on white balcony under vintage chandelier and clock in bright indoor wedding venue.
A couple in wedding attire stands on the iconic white spiral staircase at the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport.
A well-dressed person in a dark suit and plaid shirt stands smiling against a rustic backdrop with green doors.
Bridesmaids in purple dresses react emotionally as bride in white lace gown stands in rustic loft setting.
Wedding couple standing in industrial loft venue with exposed brick walls and large windows.
Wedding party celebrates together in a rustic industrial venue with tall windows and vintage chandelier.

Some Winter Photos

Here’s what I’ve done in the cold:

  • Bride with a red bouquet at Sands Point Preserve, snow all around.
  • Groom lifting his bride over a puddle at Cedar Creek Park.
  • Couple by holiday lights at a Hamptons spot.
  • See more in my portfolio if you’re curious.

Winter Wedding Location Tips


Winter weddings need a plan, especially on Long Island. If you’re on the North Shore, the Camellia Greenhouse at Planting Fields is a good call—$250 to book, but only by reservation from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Tuesdays). It’s not available November to March, so it’s more of a rain backup than a winter mainstay. Another solid option is the inside of Chelsea Mansion—great for a cozy setup with its wood panels and fireplaces if the weather turns. Both spots keep your day on track without fighting the cold too hard.