Photographing the joy of a sunny snow day
A couple enjoy a moment of pure joy in the snow in Zermatt while taking pictures for their engagment shoot
The light on a blue sky snowy day in the mountains is incredible. The short days give a softness to the bright sunlight, and the snow reflects back the light perfectly. Under these conditions, I could take pictures all day. However, the unpredictability of the weather in winter means that few families and couples are willing to take the risk on a snowy photo shoot. Christine and Rolando’s engagement shoot in Zermatt was one of these special instants. The couple were keen to have their engagement shoot in the snow on the mountain whatever the weather.
The Story
Christine and Rolando wanted some pictures of the two of them playing in the snow. So, I suggested a snowball fight as it seemed to fit with the dynamic of their relationship. Because Rolando had chosen to change into smart shoes, we were limited to more stationary shots. In addition, I wanted to concentrate on the couple and include the Matterhorn. I got them into position and explained that, as they were quite close together, they might want to deliberately ‘miss’ each other with the snowballs. Thanks to some fortuitous misunderstanding, Christine didn’t press the snow into a ball. As she threw it up in the air, Rolando moved as if to catch, and I was able to capture a shower of snow between them.
Capturing spontaneous moments
With my style of photography, I like to include time for unique moments to unfold naturally. I understand that my clients are not professional models. A lot of people can feel a little uncomfortable in front of the camera. My goal is to help you feel at ease and capture candid instants. With this in mind, I direct my couples through movements that incorporate poses but also silly actions which are guaranteed to provoke natural reactions and laughter. Moreover, everyone reacts differently, so even my go-to sequences change with each unique couple.
Discover the story behind some of my favourite couples photos, check out the links below or visit the Story of the Photo page. If you would like to book a winter photo shoot, get in touch to chat about making it happen.
More behind the scenes stories
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Go behind the scenes of this spring flowers engagement picture. Perfect alpine meadows and soft summer light for a unique portrait of two people in love.
With the buzz of a summer’s afternoon and a stolen moment together on a busy day, read the story behind this magical wedding photo.
Discover the story behind this tender photo of a big sister and her new baby brother.
A moment of pure joy in the snow. Discover the story behind this incredible engagement shoot image shot in Zermatt in the winter.
Find out the story behind this charming family photo with 3-month-old baby Noah.
Be inspired by this natural Christmas newborn photo taken by Switzerland baby photographer Emma Godfrey. With lots of ideas of how to make family photo shoots more fun for families of all ages.
Brighten your day with the story behind this shimmering wedding portrait by Switzerland photographer Emma Godfrey. Read the story behind her favourite shots and what makes them magical.
Unwrap the story of this botanical maternity photography shoot by Switzerland photographer Emma Godfrey. Finding the exotic in the centre of Geneva and hiding from the cold for a unique take on pregnancy pics.
Discover the story behind this charming photo of two best friends laughing by photographer Emma Godfrey. Find out how she likes to work with children to get the best, most natural photos of your kids.
Read the story behind this tender moment between mother and baby. Switzerland family photographer Emma Godfrey talks about her newborn photography sessions, what to expect and those special maternal moments.
Read about the story behind this charming family image of parents reading stories to a 6-month-old baby. What does Switzerland family photographer Emma Godfrey look for in her photo shoots and how does she make your everyday moments special?