Winter Photos You’ll Actually Love | Winter Family Session in Clemmons, NC

Winter Family Session at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, NC

This extended family winter session completely defied the stereotype that outdoor winter photos are ugly, because honestly? This was pure magic.

First of all, we were gifted perfect, almost-unheard-of winter weather—70 degrees, no rain, and happy smiles all around. 

This was actually the third time I’ve photographed this sweet family (fourth, if you count business headshots). From a beautiful Easter mini session last spring to newborn photos just this October, they’re quickly becoming some of my favorite people to work with. So when Mama reached out to ask if I’d photograph their out-of-town extended family, I was absolutely delighted. 

I mean, how could I not be? This family strikes that perfect balance of easygoing and relaxed, yet totally collaborative. They offered so many good ideas and input that made their photos feel unmistakably theirs.

Extended Family Session at Tanglewood Park

Extended family sessions can feel intimidating for clients and photographers. There are more people, more combinations, and usually a longer must-have list. But here’s the secret: once we capture the big group photos, everything slows down.

I’ve learned to section everyone off into individual family units, so the rest of the group can relax, chat, and enjoy being together while I work. That was exactly the game plan for this photoshoot. Afterward, “Mimi” told me she had a lot of fun, which is exactly what I was hoping for. Family photos, even extended family photo sessions, should feel natural and unrushed. 

The Challenges (Because There’s Always Something)

If you can’t tell already, my clients were perfect. The sun… was not.

This was technically a midday winter session with sometimes overcast skies and sometimes harsh sun. Normally, I’d rejoice over overcast light, but winter clouds can be tricky, especially when they’re inconsistent.

Then add in the typical winter color palette: pukish browns mixed with too-dark, even black, evergreens. It’s not impossible, but it does require intentional choices about where to shoot and how to move through a space.

Thankfully, Tanglewood Park offers so much variety that we were able to adapt easily.

How We Made It Work

Because my clients were drawn to the historical buildings, we started there. I’m so glad we did. Even light paired with charming brick is one of my favorite combinations. It creates a timeless look that photographs beautifully year-round.

Next, we made our way to the magnolia tree (if you haven’t seen it, you really should. It’s breath-taking!). And this brings me to my favorite part of the shoot–the manor. I’ve photographed Tanglewood tons of times, but I’d never had the chance to shoot near the manor before (the Arboretum usually steals the spotlight). When the BeBo (the adorable nickname for our power couple) requested it as their backdrop, I wanted to jump with happiness. To me, this manor is what North Carolina architecture is all about. It’s such a romantic, elegant backdrop!

We wrapped up the session behind the Arboretum near the old fence line, where the light softened just enough to close the session on a warm, intimate note.

I had so much fun with this family, and I’m incredibly honored they trusted me again to capture another chapter of their story.

Don’t be afraid to book a winter family session

–especially when you live near Winston-Salem, North Carolina!
Winter is actually one of the smartest times to schedule photos. Photographers tend to have more flexibility, the locations are less crowded, and the results can be just as stunning—if not more so—than peak-season sessions.

If you’re planning an extended family session, I’m your girl.
I’ll capture the generations as a whole and preserve the unique dynamic of each family unit. No rushing. No stress. Just connection and storytelling.

Ready to Plan Your Own Session?

If you’re dreaming about documenting your family—whether it’s just your household or multiple generations together—I’d love to help you plan a session that feels relaxed, intentional, and true to you.

Reach out anytime! I can’t wait to tell your family’s story.