20+ Winter Family Photoshoot Ideas

I’ve been having so much fun playing around with seasonal photography lately, especially now that everything’s covered in snow.

After spending a few weeks shooting cozy winter scenes and snow-filled moments, I thought it’d be the perfect time to turn it all into a little winter photography guide for you.

If you’re dreaming of creating a magical, winter-inspired feed, I hope these creative winter photoshoot ideas help you capture the charm of the season.

Decorate a Snowy Tree

Bring a touch of Christmas magic outdoors by decorating a snow-covered tree with sparkling ornaments. The soft sunlight reflecting on the snow and the bright holiday colors make this moment feel cheerful and full of joy.

Go Ice Skating

There is nothing quite like gliding across the ice with the sun setting behind you.

Whether you are skating hand in hand with family or teaching little ones their first moves, this activity makes for photos full of movement, warmth, and togetherness.

Hang Out of Your Car Window

A snowy car ride can turn into the perfect photoshoot setting. Park somewhere quiet and let the winter landscape surround you.

Lean out of the window, wrap yourself in a scarf, and capture that breezy, road trip feeling that instantly brings a sense of adventure.

Grab a Map

Props like maps can help tell a story through your photos. Holding a map while surrounded by snow gives off that dreamy, wandering-in-winter energy. It makes the image feel like a cozy little adventure frozen in time.

Draw a Heart in the Snow

This idea, inspired by @kjp’s Instagram, is absolutely beautiful. It might take a little editing afterward to remove your footprints, but the end result is so worth it.

A heart drawn in fresh snow gives your photo such a clean and romantic look.

Play with Your Pets in the Snow

If you have a furry friend, let them join the fun. Snowy playtime with pets brings out the happiest, most authentic expressions. Capture the wagging tails and laughter for a truly heart-melting winter memory.

Lie Down in the Snow

It might not be the most practical pose, but lying down in the snow looks adorable and adds a fun twist to your photos.

Sometimes, those unexpected poses make for the best shots, especially when everyone is laughing and enjoying the moment.

Kick the Snow

There is something so lively about the motion of kicking snow. It adds energy and spontaneity to your pictures. Let the snow fly around and capture that mid-action moment; it always brings out genuine smiles and laughter.

Cozy Indoors by the Fireplace

For a warm indoor photo, cozy up in matching pajamas by the fire. The soft glow, twinkling lights, and relaxed atmosphere create the perfect holiday family portrait that feels both intimate and festive.

Shoot Through a Tree

Try framing your photo through snow-covered branches for a creative, dreamy look. The focus on the subject with blurred, frosty details around gives the image that magical winter depth.

It is a beautiful way to make your photo stand out while keeping it natural.

Family Laughs in the Snow

Candid moments always tell the best stories. Gather your loved ones for a playful laugh or a snowball fight and capture those real, joyful reactions.

These unposed, happy moments become the kind of memories that warm your heart every time you look back.

Make a Take Me to Winter Wonderland Sign

A handmade sign can be such a sweet touch for your winter photos. Grab some cardboard, markers, and a little creativity to make your own “Take Me to Winter Wonderland” sign.

It adds a whimsical, personal vibe to your photos and looks so cute when paired with snowy scenery.

Find a Pretty Snowy Road to Take Photos On

Snowy roads lined with trees are pure magic. The natural lines of the path draw the eyes right to your subject and create that calm winter wonderland feel. It’s one of those timeless photo spots that never fail to look stunning.

Make a Snow Heart

The “snow heart” trend has been floating around Instagram for years, and it always comes back every winter.

There’s something about it that just makes a photo instantly cuter. It’s a simple and sweet idea that anyone can try, and it adds that perfect cozy winter vibe to your feed.

Head on a Walk in the Forest

A gentle walk through the woods while snow falls softly around you feels peaceful and intimate. It’s perfect for family photos or couple portraits, capturing quiet moments that feel natural and warm.

Bundle up, hold hands, and let the forest do the rest.

Gather Around the Fire

There is something so comforting about gathering around a crackling fire on a chilly day. Wrap up in your favorite blankets, sip something warm, and let the soft glow of the flames light up your smiles.

It creates the perfect mix of warmth and winter magic in one photo.

Play in the Falling Snow

Sometimes the best photos come from simply playing together. Toss snow into the air, laugh, and let the moment unfold naturally. These playful shots capture the pure joy of winter and are always filled with genuine smiles.

Capture a Candid Hug

Nothing feels more genuine than a heartfelt family hug. Pull your loved ones close and let the laughter flow naturally.

This kind of unposed, emotional moment captures the love of the season beautifully and always feels timeless in photos.

Pick the Perfect Christmas Tree

Heading out to choose a tree is one of the most heartwarming holiday traditions. Capture the excitement as everyone gathers around to pick their favorite.

The earthy tones of winter coats against the evergreens make for such a beautiful, natural backdrop.

Capture Close-Up Winter Smiles

Bundle up in your coziest hats and scarves and take some close-up shots filled with joy. Frosty noses, rosy cheeks, and genuine smiles make every photo feel warm, no matter how cold it is outside.

Sit in the Snow

Even though we don’t usually sit in the snow, it can create such a charming pose. Bundle up in your warmest coat and snuggle close with your family or friends.

The soft white backdrop makes every smile stand out and gives that heartwarming winter feel.

Make Snow Angels

There is something timeless about falling back into the snow to make snow angels. The laughter, the smiles, and the light catching on the snowflakes create such a playful and carefree moment.

It is a classic winter activity that always looks sweet in photos.