Today is the winter solstice—the shortest day and longest night of the year here in the Northern Hemisphere. For me, it’s more than just a seasonal milestone. It’s a time to reflect on nature’s rhythms and look forward to the subtle but steady shift toward longer days. Learn more about the science and cultural history of the winter solstice.
What the Winter Solstice Means to Me
The solstice occurs when the Earth tilts the Northern Hemisphere farthest away from the sun. It’s a reminder of the cycles that govern the natural world. Today has the least sunlight of the year, but it also signals a turning point. From here, the days will gradually grow longer, bringing the promise of spring.
I’ve always been fascinated by how wildlife adapts to this time of year. Some animals, like bears and raccoons, slow down and conserve energy. Others, like certain bird species and elk, seem to thrive in the cold, making winter one of my favorite times to photograph.
The Story Behind the Photo
The photo you see here is one I took on a cold December day in Oklahoma back in 2011. It’s a bull elk, its breath visible in the frigid air. This image captures what I love about winter photography—the way the cold adds drama and detail to even the simplest moments. It reflects the essence of the winter solstice, a moment when nature’s quiet beauty takes center stage. The low light and frosty atmosphere make these scenes unforgettable and a joy to document through the lens.
Why I Love Photographing the Winter Solstice
Winter solstice light is something special. The sun stays low in the sky, stretching out those golden hours and giving me plenty of time to work with soft, diffused light. Frosty mornings, long shadows, and snowy backdrops add so much atmosphere to my shots. Wildlife also seems easier to find this time of year, whether it’s a deer silhouetted against the frost or birds gathered around a feeder.
My Tips for Winter Solstice Photography
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks for making the most of these conditions, especially during solstice photography when the light and wildlife behaviors are so distinctive:
- Use the Low Light: I rely on a tripod and slower shutter speeds to make the most of the dim conditions. If I bump up my ISO, I always double-check for noise.
- Stay Warm: When I’m comfortable, I can focus on the wildlife instead of the cold. I dress in layers, wear gloves with fingertip access, and make sure my boots are insulated.
- Scout Ahead: I like to know where animals are active—whether it’s near water, feeding grounds, or a tucked-away shelter.
- Observe Behavior: Winter often slows animals down, which gives me more time to capture their unique behaviors.
A Time for Reflection
The winter solstice always reminds me how resilient nature is. This season can seem harsh, but it’s also a time for rest and preparation. For me, it’s a chance to slow down, appreciate the quiet, and focus on capturing the beauty of this moment in the cycle of the year.
I’ll be staying home today, photographing the birds in my yard here in Arkansas. From cardinals to woodpeckers, I’m always amazed by what this season reveals.
Share your solstice photography stories in the comments below—I’d love to hear what you’ve captured during this unique day.
I love the image, and the pointers about photography. I didn’t know they had elk in Arkansas. Seeing this photo reminds me of the first time I ever saw an elk. It was in Yellowstone NP back in the mid 1980’s, and, as an Easterner, I didn’t even know what it was!
We do have elk in Arkansas, but I took that photo in Oklahoma.
Very interesting