Peaks and Powder: A Photographer's Guide to Winter in the Grand Tetons

Snow-capped mountains during sunset in the Tetons with water reflection below.

Not only is Grand Teton National Park a place of isolation and stark beauty, but winter transforms it into something even more magical, a time when you can truly capture the grand wonder through the lens, and away from the crowds in one of America’s most stunning parks. Whether you join us for a half-day or a full-day adventure in the Tetons, you’ll discover endless opportunities to photograph the dramatic landscape and wildlife right from the camera using this photographer's guide. Since this park is among the top 7 winter wonderland destinations to experience, this season offers a special landscape you genuinely don’t want to miss.

Winter Photographer's Guide: Gear and Preparation

Choosing gear for photography and winter in the Tetons isn’t always easy, but focusing on the essentials will set you up for success. Protecting your camera from moisture is essential when transitioning between the heated tour vehicle and the freezing outdoor temperatures, and battery life management is just as important. Camera batteries drain faster in cold conditions, so keeping multiple spare batteries in a warm place is a must. For lenses, you’ll have the opportunity to shoot a variety of subjects: a 16-70mm lens is great for landscapes, while a 300-600mm lens is great for wildlife photography. 

In addition to your camera gear, your personal comfort has a direct impact on your photography success in winter conditions. Be sure to layer with lightweight synthetic or wool layers against the skin, followed by thicker wool or fleece, and top it off with a waterproof outer shell to stay dry in the snow. When taking photos in the outdoors, having a pair of gloves with removable fingertips, paired with hand warmers, will keep your hands toasty and functional in the cold. Don’t forget footwear too—waterproof snow boots with good traction and wool socks are essential for standing in the snow and taking photos. As some photographers note, it’s crucial to keep your hands and feet warm when photographing in the cold. 

An Elk stares at the camera while standing in the snow and eating some grass.

Capturing the Tetons through Light, Composition, and Iconic Locations

The Teton range changes throughout the day, offering distinct photo opportunities as the light moves across the peaks, and the Full Day Winter Tour positions you perfectly for these magical moments. During the winter months, the sunrises and sunsets are dramatic in their illumination of the peaks and the park, especially before or after a major snowfall. Our high-quality binoculars and scopes will also help preview compositions before setting up the camera. 

Snowy peaks with clouds passing through them and a hint of sunlight on the tip of the peak at sunset.

Winter simplifies the Tetons’ complex landscape into powerful visual elements for compelling compositions, and the tour’s comfortable vehicles allow you to scout out multiple viewpoints without battling the cold. Between viewing wildlife on our National Elk Refuge sleigh ride and scenic stops throughout the valley, you’ll discover how to use snow-covered sagebrush flats as negative space to emphasize the dramatic vertical rise of the massive peaks. Even better, if any clouds or haze appear, this can add a more dramatic effect to any photo. 

Making the Most of Your Winter Tour Experience

Two foxes are standing in the middle of the snow, looking into the distance.

Winter photography in the Grand Tetons rewards those who embrace the cold, offering images that capture the raw beauty of the American West at its most dramatic. The simplified palette of white snow, dark evergreens, and granite peaks creates compositions with powerful visual impact, while still getting opportunities for intimate wildlife portraits against spectacular backdrops. 

Our cozy, heated vehicles serve as a mobile photography studio, providing warmth between every shot and positioning you at the most photogenic locations throughout your adventure. We also offer professional scopes and binoculars, invaluable tools for scouting out photo compositions.

Whether joining us for a full-day or half-day tour in the Tetons, you will come away with an unforgettable experience in the wild of winter. Don’t just see the Grand Tetons in winter; capture their majesty and grandeur through an expertly guided tour.