Indoor vs Outdoor Photo Sessions: Making the Best Choice for Winter Weather

Cozy Snuggles or Sandy Toes? Let’s Talk Winter Photo Sessions

If you’ve been dreaming of a family photo session to kick off the new year, you might be asking yourself one big question: Should we head outside or stay cozy indoors? As a family photographer based in Southern California, I get this question a lot - especially in winter, when the weather can feel a little more unpredictable (even for SoCal standards).

While we’re lucky to have mostly mild winters here in Orange County, I've definitely had my share of chilly beach sessions that ended with red noses, sandy wet shoes, and lots of snugglier-than-planned moments. I’ve also had beautiful indoor sessions where kids read books on the couch, and parents got to relax in their own space without worrying about wind, weather, or whether their outfits were warm enough.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer - it really comes down to what makes sense for your family in this season of life. Keep reading for some honest insight to help you choose whether an outdoor or indoor session is the best fit for your winter photo shoot.

What You Want Matters More Than the Weather Forecast

Let’s face it - Southern California doesn’t exactly scream “winter” most of the time. But over the years, I’ve seen how even small weather shifts this time of year can affect how a session feels. The sun sets earlier, beach breezes feel chillier, and yes, sometimes the clouds roll in (or the weird fog we've been getting lately) when we least expect it.

That’s why I always start by asking my families what they want out of their session.

• Do you have a location in mind that you’ve been dreaming about?

• Are you envisioning a golden sunset, or do you love the look of soft natural light indoors?

• Do you want to try new outfits that might not be warm enough for the evening air?

  
  

If someone shares a dream location or favorite outfit for outdoors, I help them picture what that experience might really feel like in colder winter light - especially if they’re hoping for that dreamy golden hour glow that might be hiding behind clouds.

I’ve had sessions at the beach where families kicked off their shoes, only to realize the ocean breeze was colder than expected and the sand wasn’t exactly toasty. I’ve even had waves sneak up on us and soak everyone on a rock mid-photo! (Spoiler alert: we still made magic, even if we had to squish together from the cold.)

And of course, if the ever-unpredictable Santa Ana winds are rolling through, we may have to reschedule altogether just for safety’s sake.

On the flip side, indoor sessions make a lot of those unknowns easier to control. But they also come with their own considerations - like space, lighting, and how you want to interact as a family.

Bottom line: understanding the trade-offs of both options helps keep the focus where it belongs - on your family’s connection, not the weather.

Tips to Help You Choose What Feels Right

Whether you’re leaning toward outdoor adventure or indoor coziness, here’s how I guide my families through the decision.

1. Consider Comfort and Connection

• Winter evenings get cold fast, especially at windy spots like the beach or bluffs.

• I always suggest layers and warm outerwear, even if you don’t plan to wear them in every photo.

• It’s more important to have warm, happy kids (and grownups!) than to freeze for a matching color palette.

• If outdoor comfort is a concern, lean into the opportunity for cozy, cuddled-up photos that look just as beautiful.

  
  

2. Prepare for Light (and Lack of It)

• Outdoor lighting in winter is less predictable. Clouds and even fog can block golden hour or bright skies.

• Indoor sessions use the light available in your home, which means more consistency and less dependence on the sunset behaving.

• I help choose the best time and rooms in your home for natural light. We don’t need every room perfect - just the ones we’ll be using.

• If you feel unsure about showing your home, that’s okay too. I’ll help you highlight the pieces that matter most.

  
  

3. Think Practically About Location Factors

• If your outdoor location is one I’ve photographed before, I’ll share what to expect - such as high tides, tricky terrain, or parking challenges after rain.

• If you’re choosing indoors, it's a great opportunity to include everyday moments that feel more “you” - like reading stories on the couch or playing in the kitchen.

• For beach lovers, be ready for chillier winds and the occasional splash (yes, even during the winter!).

  
  

4. Stay Flexible and Trust the Process

• I keep a close watch on weather patterns and will keep you updated as we get closer to the session.

• If rain is in the forecast, we can pivot to indoor, reschedule, or find a new location with better protection.

• Either way, I always center your family’s energy and connection. That’s what shines brightest - not the forecast or the background.

  
  

Why These Choices Really Matter

Choosing between an indoor and outdoor session isn’t just about how a photo turns out. It’s about how you feel during the session - and how you remember that experience later on.

When you’re warm, relaxed, and surrounded by meaningful details (whether it’s your favorite park or your own living room), your images reflect that ease. They become keepsakes not just of what you looked like, but how you laughed, cuddled, and loved each other in that season of life.

And isn’t that what we’re all hoping for when we invest in photography - memories that feel real, not posed?

You don’t have to figure this out alone. I’m here to help you choose a setting that truly supports your vision, your comfort, and your family’s unique dynamics.

Let’s Create a Photo Session You’ll Actually Love

If a winter photo session is on your heart, I’d love to talk with you about what your family needs most. Whether you’re leaning outdoors with layers and low sun, or curious about trying an indoor session for the first time, we’ll design something together that fits your season and showcases your joy.

Want to see what an indoor session could look like for your family? Let’s chat about the light in your home, what spaces feel best, and how we can make it your own.

And if you’re dreaming of sandy toes and beach breezes, we’ll plan ahead and pack the blankets - just in case.

You are in the right place. I can’t wait to tell your family’s story.

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