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As an Edmonton photographer, I often wonder why so many people limit their family photo sessions to the enchanting hues of fall. Sure, the autumn colours give a nice backdrop, but every season has its own charm, right?

Granted, winter weather in Edmonton can be notoriously capricious. One moment it’s a mild Christmas without a speck of snow, and the next, you’re facing bone-chilling cold records. Talk about unpredictable! But you know what? There’s a certain magic in that unpredictability. So, don’t let the chilly weather deter you from immersing yourself in the fun and whimsy of a winter photo session. Embrace the frost and seize those delightful moments—it’s all part of the enchanting experience!

Dive into the season’s appeal with these 6 photo-perfect winter activities to do in various locations across Edmonton and its surroundings. Your outdoor photo session just got a whole lot more unforgettable!

1. Go skating

Glide through the crisp winter air at one of Edmonton’s numerous outdoor rinks or IceWays. Never laced up skates before? No biggie! A photo session doubles as the perfect opportunity to pick up the skill, surrounded by laughter and helpful hands. Get ready for some fantastic action shots and heartwarming interactions that’ll leave you smiling.

And for those seeking a new adventure, why not try an ice bike for free on Fridays and Saturdays at Laurier Park?

This winter, you can cap off your expedition with a little pit stop featuring free hot chocolate and a warming fire at Castle Downs Park, Rundle Park, Victoria Park, and Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park.

2. Go sledding or tobogganing

Check out the best toboggan hills in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, and St. Albert with the Edmonton.family toboggan hill map. It even spills the beans on which hills are perfect for different ages and skill levels.

Not up for a grand adventure? Find a little hill in the neighbourhood—perfect for the kiddos. And hey, if there’s a bunch of snow, why not just slide down the snowbank in your own yard? Easy peasy!

Just a heads up: keep that phone out of your front pocket when you go for a tummy slide unless you want it to pull off the acrobatics mine did!

3. Play in your yard

Depending on the type of snow available, its condition and the amount on the ground, your front yard or backyard can transform into a delightful winter playground for a family photo session. Immerse yourself in making snow angels, crafting a snowman, building a snow fort or an igloo with colourful ice blocks, or even attempting a snow volcano. Catch snowflakes on your tongue, engage in a spirited snowball fight, toss snow in the air, cook a meal on the firepit—the possibilities are endless! And, if you happen to have a hot tub, why not take a plunge and enjoy a refreshing bain de neige (snow bath)?

With kids in the mix, rest assured, they’ll come up with ways to keep the session lively and entertaining. And for the older crowd, it’s the perfect opportunity to showcase that you’re still young at heart!

4. Go for a hike or a walk around town

Take a stroll through the Whitemud Ravine and Mactaggart Sanctuary, wander the twists and turns of Mill Creek Ravine’s wooded paths (you might catch the beautifully lit trails during the Flying Canoë Volant festival), feed the friendly birds along Sherwood Park Natural Area’s trails, or venture into the bison wonderland at Elk Island National Park. After all that exploring, wrap up your escapade with a chill picnic to savour the memories you’ve made.

If you prefer city vibes, check out these 5 trails and treat yourself to a hot drink at a nearby café. And, for a unique dining experience, consider having a meal in one of the igloos at Riverside Bistro.

5. Go cross-country skiing

The Edmonton region is dotted with loads of groomed trails across the city and nearby areas. I’m all for the idea of adding some cross-country skiing to your photo session, but there are a few things to think about before we hit the trails. Keep it easy, take plenty of breaks, and don’t go zooming around if you’re after some great shots of your adventure! Picture yourself pulling a kid carrier or teaching your little ones the ropes—a more leisurely pace, right? And like for the other ideas above, end your skiing tour with some hot chocolate, a relaxed picnic, or a pit stop at a cosy café or restaurant to warm up those little toes. Sounds like a plan, doesn’t it?

6. Attend one of Edmonton’s winter festivals

Edmonton is renowned for its abundance of festivals year-round, and winter is no exception. Explore the city’s vibrant winter scene with these three festivals that are definitely worth checking out:

Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival

Embark on a cultural journey at Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival on Alberta Avenue (118 Avenue). Immerse yourself in the warmth of village life as you savour the delectable sweetness of tire sur la neige (maple taffy on snow) or bannock by a crackling open fire. Experience strapping on snowshoes, admire intricate ice sculptures, and participate in spirited street hockey matches. Make sure you catch the various light installations, the music performances and the thrilling Deep Freezer races.

Are you visualising the many photo ops here?

Flying Canoë Volant

I’m including the Flying Canoë Volant festival on this list simply because I think it’s worth going to. However, due to the darkness in the pathways, I wouldn’t recommend going there for a photo session. Unless you visit when it’s still bright outside.

This festival, happening against the stunning backdrop of Mill Creek Ravine and the French Quarter, is a lively celebration inspired by the legend of the Flying Canoë (La Chasse-Galerie) and various cultural traditions. Get ready for a blast of entertainment with lighting displays, sculptures, music, dance, storytelling, games, a snow slide, maple taffy, and more. Enough to keep the entire family engaged and buzzing with excitement!

Silver Skate Festival

The Silver Skate Festival, this year in Laurier Park, is all about family, culture, art, and winter fun. Glide on skating rinks, marvel at snow sculptures, and catch lively performances on the Folk Trail. Write down your fears or wishes for the nightly Fire Sculpture burn, and don’t miss the Indigenous pavilion in the Heritage Village. You can even challenge yourself in the Duathlon or Mammoet Winter Triathlon, where all skill levels are welcome.

Winter’s pure magic, and this festival is about soaking it all in.

Ready to capture these unforgettable winter moments in or around Edmonton?

Embrace the magic of the season and turn your Edmonton family photo session into a winter wonderland adventure. Don’t let the cold weather hold you back; instead, let it add a touch of enchantment to your memories. Get out there, have fun, and create lasting memories with your loved ones! Book your winter photo session today and make this season one to remember.