Deborah Berke has been named the winner of the 2025 AIA Gold Medal by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The Yale School of Architecture dean and founder of TenBerke follows Lake|Flato namesakesDavid Lake and Ted Flato to become the Gold Medal award's fourth living female architect recipient.The jury celebrated Berke for both her leadership in academia and work as a designer of a diverse and environmentally-minded body of projects as far-ranging as the Richardson Olmsted Complex in Buffalo and Brown University's new all-electric new Brook Street Residence Halls.

The Los Angeles City Council has decided on regulatory updates to the 2021-2029 housing element that will center new development mainly in commercial districts and existing high-density residential neighborhoods while avoiding single-family zones in spite of the benefits proven to be offered by the latter.The 15-0 vote allows for additional building in those areas provided a certain percentage of affordable housing units are included. Some havelabeled the single-family zoning exceptionas 'exclusionary' as those plots cover 72% of the city. The update also allows for development on lots owned by public agencies or religious organizations. Los Angeles is currently facing an immensehousing crisisand will have to present a plan to create an additional 255,000 homes to the state by mid-February.(h/t Urbanize LA and the LA Times for the update)

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Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work throughArchitizerand sign up for ourinspirational newsletters.Brutalist architecture provokes strong reactions. It challenges traditional standards of architectural value with its unique character, emphasizing raw concrete surfaces, imposing scale and bold forms. Some see it as a celebration of material, form and function; others perceive it as cold and uninviting. Brutalist architecture hardly goes unnoticed, prompting us to reevaluate how we see and use spaces, ultimately enriching the human experience and leaving a lasting impact.Brutalism emerged primarily in the late 1940s and gained prominence in the 1950s1970s. It is known for its bold forms and unapologetic use of raw materials, particularly exposed concrete. Emerging after World War II, Brutalism reflects a desire for honesty in design, emphasizing functionality over ornamentation. The design approach strips buildings to their structural essence, making materials and construction techniques integral elements of the aesthetic. Brutalist buildings often appear monumental and imposing, evoking a sense of strength and permanence in a time of societal rebuilding and modernization post-World War II.Characteristics of Brutalist ArchitectureBoston City Hall Public Spaces Renovation by Utile, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts | Designed by Kallmann McKinnell & Knowles and Campbell, Aldrich & Nulty 1962-1968How is Brutalism associated with Modernism?Brutalism is closely associated with Modernism, as both movements focus on functionality and honesty in materials. As a post-war evolution of Modernism, Brutalism maintains its predecessors rejection of ornamentation, favoring structural clarity. However, Brutalism differs from Modernism in its aesthetic and material choices. While Modernism often features sleek, minimalist forms with extensive use of glass and steel as exemplified by the Seagram Building in New York City Brutalism predominantly embraces raw concrete, resulting in more rugged structures. Modernist constructions, such as the Seagram Building, typically aim for lightness and openness, whereas Brutalist architecture evokes a sense of massiveness and permanence. Despite these differences, both styles promote an architecture that reflects societal needs and values, focusing on functionality and breaking away from historical revival styles.History of Brutalist ArchitectureSeagram Building (1958), designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson. New York, New York | Photo by Ken OHYAMA via Wikimedia Commons.What architectural movements preceded Brutalism and contributed to its development?The influences of Brutalism are diverse and multifaceted. Modernism, particularly the International Style with its emphasis on functionalism and minimal ornamentation, significantly influenced Brutalism. Le Corbusiers bton brut (raw concrete) concept inspired Brutalisms materiality. Bauhauss commitment to simple forms, honesty in materials, and the form follows function principle also played a foundational role. Also, the Arts and Crafts movements emphasis on material authenticity and craftsmanship contributed to Brutalisms raw aesthetic, despite their differing scales and approaches.What events led to the decline of Brutalist architecture?The decline of Brutalist architecture was driven by several factors. A growing public perception of Brutalism as cold, oppressive, and alienating led to widespread criticism. As urban renewal projects progressed, many Brutalist buildings were associated with social issues like crime and decay, especially in neglected public housing projects. A shift toward more visually inviting, postmodern, and neo-vernacular styles in the 1980s and 1990s also played a role, as architects embraced ornamentation and human-scaled forms. Additionally, the economic challenges of maintaining large concrete structures contributed to the decline, as many Brutalist buildings suffered from wear and corrosion over time.Examples / Case StudiesWho are the key architects credited with pioneering Brutalism and how did the style adapt regionally?Regional variation adapted Brutalisms raw, honest aesthetic to meet specific cultural, climatic, and functional needs.Europe:In the United Kingdom and Eastern Bloc countries, Brutalist architecture was typically used for public housing and government buildings. This architecture embodied social progress and functionality ideals, addressing post-war rebuilding efforts. In the United Kingdom, Alison and Peter Smithson led the movement with projects like the Robin Hood Gardens housing development (1972). In Eastern Europe, Karel Prager (Czech Republic) contributed significantly to the movement with projects like the Prague Assembly Building (1966-1974), adapting Brutalism for government and housing projects.Soviet Union:Erich Mendelsohn, Leonid Pavlov, and Arkady Mordvinov were associated with Soviet Brutalism, creating massive, imposing buildings that reflected state power.United States:Brutalism was embraced for institutional buildings, universities, and urban redevelopment projects, emphasizing monumental forms and functionality. Notable examples include Paul Rudolphs Yale Art and Architecture Building (1963) and Marcel Breuers Whitney Museum of American Art (1966).South America:Brutalism emerged in South America as an important architectural style. In Brazil, Lina Bo Bardis Museu de Art So Paulo (1968) and, most notably, Oscar Niemeyers sculptural buildings, such as the Cathedral of Brazilia (1970) blended the style with regional architectural traditions and environmental considerations. Similarly, Clorindo Testa in Argentina led the movement, integrating Brutalist principles with local adaptations.Tropical Climates:Brutalist designs in tropical regions adapted to the climate by incorporating lighter materials and passive cooling strategies. Examples include the works of architects like Le Corbusier in Chandigarh, India.The Future of Brutalist ArchitecturePalace of Assembly (1951), designed by Le Corbusier. Capitol Complex of Chandigarh, India. | Photo by UnpetitproleX via Wikimedia Commons.How has public opinion on Brutalism evolved?In its early years, the style was celebrated for its boldness and revolutionary approach to architecture, especially in post-war rebuilding efforts. However, as the decades passed, Brutalisms massive raw concrete forms, for some viewed as cold and unwelcoming, began to be associated with urban decay, leading to calls for demolition.More recently, Brutalism has experienced a resurgence, fueled by a nostalgic appreciation for its boldness and an interest in architectural heritage preservation. Brutalism is now seen as a reflection of the post-war social and cultural climate, sparking debates on its architectural value and integration into contemporary urban landscapes.The styles cultural relevance is evident with a strong presence on social media platforms like Instagram, where accounts like @swiss_brutalism, @brutalism101, @brutalismo_esp, @brutalist_design, @african_brutalism, and @b_r_u_t_a_l_i_z_m demonstrate its enduring popularity in contemporary discourse.Does Brutalism align with or contradict contemporary sustainability practices?Brutalism intersects with contemporary sustainability practices in two contrasting ways. On the one hand, its use of raw concrete, a durable and low-maintenance material, aligns with sustainable urban planning principles. Brutalist structures, designed for endurance, require less frequent demolition or rebuilding, which reduces long-term resource consumption.On the other hand, concrete production has a high carbon footprint and is associated with greenhouse gas emissions, presenting an important environmental challenge. Also, many Brutalist buildings struggle with thermal efficiency, further complicating their sustainability.Hotel Marcel by Becker + Becker, New Haven, Connecticut | Designed by Marcel Breuer in 1968How is Brutalism being adapted today and what is the state of conservation efforts?Today, Brutalism is being reinterpreted in various ways, influencing modern architectural aesthetics and conservation practices. Drawn by Brutalisms raw, unpolished look, many contemporary architects incorporate raw concrete and exposed structural elements into their designs while blending Brutalist principles with more modern materials and techniques to create buildings that feel more inviting and integrated into their surroundings.As cities and communities recognize their historical and architectural significance, preservation efforts for Brutalist buildings are increasing. Notable examples include Habitat 67 in Montreal, Canada; the Barbican Estate and Trellick Tower in London, United Kingdom; Boston City Hall in the United States; and the Sirius Building in Sydney, Australia. These projects highlight a growing appreciation for Brutalist architecture as part of our cultural heritage. While some Brutalist buildings face demolition due to neglect, many are being upgraded for modern use while maintaining their distinct raw character. Architects and urban planners can explore how these structures can be reinterpreted to meet contemporary needs by preserving and retrofitting Brutalist buildings, thus bridging their past with a sustainable, inclusive future. A notable example is Marcel Breuers Armstrong Rubber Company Building in New Haven, Connecticut, United States, now the Hotel Marcel. After decades of disuse, the building was transformed into the first Passive House-certified hotel in the United States, blending Breuers original vision with cutting-edge sustainability.How has Brutalism influenced architectural thinking and society at large?Today, Brutalism encourages the rethinking of architectural values, with an interest in preserving its iconic structures and adapting its principles for a contemporary lifestyle. Its legacy is a testament to architectures ability to provoke thought, shape identity, and respond to societal challenges.Brutalism teaches us that architecture is not just about aesthetic trends. It is a tool for reflecting societal values. Brutalisms raw materiality, imposing forms, and utilitarian emphasis reflect the post-war need for affordable housing, public infrastructure, and social equity. However, Brutalism also provokes debate by forcing us to question what we value in the built environment and who benefits from it. In this way, Brutalism remains a reminder that architecture is not neutral but a reflection of cultural, political, and economic values.Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work throughArchitizerand sign up for ourinspirational newsletters.The post Architecture 101: What is Brutalist Architecture? appeared first on Journal.

Ema is a trained architect, writer and photographer whoworks as a Junior Architectat REX in NYC. Inspired by her global experiences, she shares captivating insights into the worlds most extraordinary cities and buildings and provides travel tips on her blog,The Travel Album.Picture this: Its a crisp January morning in 2025, and the sunlight filters into your home through large, open windows. The room feels alive not in the chaotic, cluttered way of a busy home, but in the way that warmth emanates from every surface. Your hand brushes against a soft, textured wall as you reach for a cup of coffee. The silver accents of your kitchen fixtures catch the light, glinting against the earthy brick backsplash. This isnt just a home; its a sanctuary a reflection of who you are and how you live.This vision is at the heart of the 2025 design trends that are quietly reshaping the spaces we inhabit. For years, homes have been ruled by a stark, almost clinical minimalism walls so white they felt like blank canvases waiting for someone to finally make them come alive. But now, theres a shift. The sterile is being replaced by the soulful.Whats In for Interiors1. Warm Minimalism: The Evolving Simplicity of Home DesignMinimalism, once synonymous with stark, all-white spaces, is evolving into something more human and inviting. Enter Like maybewarm minimalism, a design philosophy that retains the clarity of minimalism but infuses it with warmth through organic textures, earthy tones and subtle contrasts. This evolution isnt about abandoning minimalism altogether, its about making it human.Warm minimalism, as its being called, is about creating spaces that feel alive and lived-in without the chaos. Its the feeling of a linen throw over a streamlined sofa or a kitchen backsplash made from thin, handcrafted bricks that subtly hint at the materials origins. Warm minimalism is all about contrasts: sleek design paired with organic textures, neutral colors deepened with earthy undertones, and spaces that balance order with soul.TERMITARY HOUSE by TROPICAL SPACE, Da Nang, Vietnam The Feeling of WarmthImagine stepping into a living room where the walls are softly textured with grasscloth wallpaper, casting gentle shadows in the late afternoon light. The furniture is minimalist in form but upholstered in warm, tactile fabrics like linen or boucle. A thin brick backsplash in the kitchen adds a rustic yet refined quality, grounding the space. Warm minimalism feels alive. Its about combining simplicity with comfort, creating spaces that are uncluttered yet deeply personal.Architectural ApplicationsTextured Walls: Grasscloth, embossed wallpaper or even exposed brick add depth and softness.Natural Finishes: Wood grain flooring, unfinished stone surfaces and lightly polished concrete contribute to a warm, tactile environment.Layered Lighting: Instead of relying on harsh overhead lights, warm minimalism incorporates a mix of floor lamps, sconces and indirect lighting to create an ambient glow.Why It ResonatesAs our homes become extensions of our personalities, warm minimalism offers a way to embrace calm without sacrificing character. Its a response to the sterile environments of the past, blending simplicity with a sense of belonging.2. Quiet Luxury: Subtle Sophistication for Everyday LivingIn another corner of the design world, a subtler movement is taking shape. Its not flashy, and it doesnt shout for attention. Quiet luxury is more about the story your home tells, layer by layer, than about ostentation. Imagine walking into a room and feeling its quality, rather than being told about it. A solid wooden dining table polished to show the natural grain. A brick fireplace that grounds the space with its timeless texture. These arent elements chosen for their trendiness; theyre selected for their ability to endure, to age gracefully, to feel both modern and eternal. Brick, in particular, is having a renaissance in quiet luxury design. It offers richness without overwhelming a room, acting as both an anchor and an accent. Materials like these brick, stone, reclaimed wood create spaces that feel calm and intentional, as if theyve always been part of the home.In a world dominated by fast trends and fleeting aesthetics, quiet luxury offers a refuge. This design trend isnt about ostentation; its about quality, craftsmanship and timeless beauty. Quiet luxury doesnt shout; it whispers elegance.Casa Es Carnatgeby Miel Arquitectos, Palma de Mallorca, SpainThe Essence of Quiet LuxuryPicture a dining room where a sleek wooden table takes center stage, its surface glowing with the natural grain of the wood. Around it, mid-century modern chairs upholstered in muted, neutral tones provide understated sophistication. A single, large-format piece of art hangs on the wall, adding a focal point without overwhelming the space. The appeal lies in restraint. Each element in the room feels purposeful, selected for its beauty and durability rather than its trendiness.Materials That SpeakBrick: Whether exposed or painted, brick adds a rich, earthy texture that complements a variety of styles. In quiet luxury interiors, brick might appear as an accent wall or even as part of a fireplace.Natural Stone: Marble and limestone lend timeless sophistication, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.Soft Neutrals: Muted tones like sand, taupe, and stone gray provide a neutral canvas that highlights the quality of materials and craftsmanship.The Longevity of Quiet LuxuryUnlike fads that fade, quiet luxury is built to last. It aligns with a growing desire for interiors that are not just beautiful but meaningful a reflection of personal values and a sanctuary from the chaos of the outside world.3. Living with Nature The connection to nature will be stronger than ever in 2025. Perhaps its a reaction to the increasing digitalization of our lives or maybe its simply a return to something fundamental: the feeling of being grounded. Biophilic design is about more than just plants. Its about designing homes that breathe, that feel alive in the way they interact with their surroundings. Picture sunlight pouring through oversized windows, warming floors made of natural bamboo.Imagine a vertical garden climbing a wall in your living room, its greenery softening the edges of modern furniture. This connection to nature isnt just aesthetic; its practical. Materials like wood, stone and brick are being chosen not only for their beauty but for their sustainability. Homeowners are looking for choices that are kind to the environment, favoring durability and renewability over the disposable trends of years past.The need to reconnect with nature has never been more urgent, and biophilic design offers a pathway to bring the outdoors inside. More than a trend, its a philosophy that centers on wellness, sustainability and a seamless relationship between architecture and the natural world.Country Estate by Roger Ferris + Partners, Connecticut, United StatesThe Science of BiophiliaStudies show that exposure to nature even in small doses can reduce stress, enhance creativity and improve overall well-being. Biophilic design applies this principle by integrating natural elements into the home, creating environments that promote health and tranquility.How It Comes to LifeIndoor-Outdoor Blends: Large windows, sliding glass doors and atriums dissolve the boundary between inside and out, filling spaces with natural light and views of greenery.Natural Materials: Bamboo flooring, wooden beams and stone accents provide tactile connections to nature. Brick, with its organic texture and earthy tones, is a standout choice for walls and flooring.Living Walls: Vertical gardens bring a literal breath of fresh air into interiors while acting as dynamic design features.Sustainability Meets AestheticsThe embrace of natural materials aligns with a broader focus on sustainability. Homeowners are seeking materials that not only look good but also have a minimal environmental footprint. Bamboo, reclaimed wood and sustainably sourced bricks offer beauty and durability while supporting eco-friendly practices.4. A Touch of Silver: Silver AccentsAnd then theres silver. For years, brass and gold have dominated our homes, offering a sense of glamour. But silver is different. Its quieter, subtlerless about the spotlight and more about the glow. Silver accents are finding their way into kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. Imagine a matte silver faucet in a kitchen where earthy brick tones dominate, or silver-framed mirrors reflecting the warmth of a softly lit bedroom. Its an element that bridges the old and the new, a versatile accent that feels fresh without overshadowing the rest of the room.After years of brass and gold dominating the design landscape, silver is making a quiet comeback in 2025. Unlike its warmer counterparts, silver offers a sleek, modern elegance that works across a wide range of styles, from traditional to ultra-modern.Stone Houseby Tun Architects, Cceres, SpainThe Versatility of SilverSilver accents can be as bold or as subtle as desired. In a modern kitchen, matte silver cabinet hardware pairs seamlessly with marble countertops and wood cabinetry. In a living room, silver-framed mirrors reflect light and create a sense of openness.Designing with SilverPair silver accents with warm wood tones for a balanced, contemporary look.Use silver in lighting fixtures, faucets and even decorative objects like vases or candleholders.Combine with natural materials like stone and brick to soften the coolness of silver and create a harmonious palette.Why It WorksSilvers neutrality allows it to act as both a supporting player and a statement piece, adapting to the overall design of the space. Its timeless appeal ensures it will remain a fixture in homes long after the trend fades.Whats In for Exteriors1. Earthy TonesThe shift toward earthy tones in home exteriors marks a significant departure from the dominance of white and cream hues. While neutrals like these remain timeless for their clean and versatile appeal, homeowners are gravitating toward palettes inspired by nature. Deeper grays, muted greens, warm browns and soft terracottas are taking center stage, bringing a sense of depth and grounding to exterior designs.EPR Houseby Luis Aldrete, Guadalajara, Mexico The Psychology Behind Earthy TonesEarthy colors evoke a sense of well-being and tranquility, connecting a home to its natural surroundings. These tones mirror the colors of forests, deserts, and mountains, creating a visual dialogue between the structure and its environment. For homeowners, this translates to spaces that feel harmonious and inviting designs that welcome both inhabitants and visitors alike.Architectural ApplicationsStone and Brick Faades: Materials like slate-gray stone or brownish-red brick bring an inherent warmth and texture to faades, emphasizing the natural beauty of the raw materials.Painted Exteriors: Muted greens or terracotta tones on wooden or stucco walls add subtle sophistication and blend seamlessly with landscaping.Roofing and Accents: Deep gray or earthy-toned roofs create a cohesive aesthetic, while muted red window trims or natural wood door frames act as eye-catching accents.Challenges and ConsiderationsDesigning with earthy tones requires a nuanced understanding of their interaction with light and surroundings. In regions with intense sunlight, muted shades can look washed out, whereas darker tones can absorb too much heat. Architects must also consider the environmental context, ensuring that the color palette complements the local landscape.2. Mixed Textures: Layering Depth and CharacterTexture is a powerful design tool that goes beyond visual aesthetics, offering tactile and structural qualities that enrich the experience of a building. For 2025, mixing materials on exteriors (and interiors) has become a defining trend, creating a layered, multidimensional look thats as functional as it is beautiful.Why Texture MattersTextured exteriors add depth and interest, transforming flat, monotonous facades into dynamic compositions. By juxtaposing materials like brick, wood, metal, and glass, architects can highlight structural elements, create focal points and even improve energy efficiency.House in Takamatsu by Yasunari Tsukada Design, Takamatsu, JapanPopular Material PairingsBrick and Glass: This combination offers a modern industrial look, with brick providing warmth and durability, while glass introduces transparency and lightness. A common application is a brick-clad home punctuated by large glass windows or curtain walls.Wood and Metal: The natural warmth of wood pairs beautifully with sleek, cool metals like steel or aluminum. This blend is often seen in rustic-modern designs, where wooden siding softens the industrial feel of metal accents.Concrete and Stone: These materials create a minimalist aesthetic with a touch of luxury, often used in contemporary designs that prioritize clean lines and natural textures.Designing for DurabilityMixed-material exteriors arent just about aesthetics they also improve structural performance. For example, combining brick with wood cladding allows architects to balance the thermal mass of brick with the insulating properties of wood. Similarly, incorporating glass into a faade can reduce energy costs by maximizing natural light.Tips for Harmonious IntegrationFocus on a cohesive color palette to tie disparate materials together.Use textures strategically to highlight key architectural elements, like entryways or cantilevered sections.Consider the maintenance requirements of each material and how they age over time to ensure long-term appeal.3. Sustainable and Resilient MaterialsAt the heart of these trends is a deepening commitment to sustainability. Homeowners are no longer just asking, What looks good? Theyre asking, What lasts? Brick, with its natural origins and timeless appeal, is a perfect example. Made from clay or shale, its durable, energy-efficient, and recyclable. Other materials, like bamboo and reclaimed wood, offer similar benefits, combining beauty with eco-consciousness. The result is homes that feel good to live in and good to live with.The Rise of Brick as a Sustainable MaterialBrick, a time-tested building material, is experiencing a resurgence thanks to its sustainability credentials. Made from natural resources like clay or shale, brick is energy-efficient, long-lasting and recyclable. It requires minimal maintenance and offers excellent thermal performance, reducing heating and cooling costs.Recyclability and Longevity: Brick structures can last for centuries, and when demolished, bricks can often be reused or crushed for new applications.Energy Efficiency: Brick walls provide thermal mass, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.Shor House by Measured Architecture Inc., Mayne Island, CanadaOther Sustainable Materials in FocusReclaimed Wood: Salvaged from old buildings or barns, reclaimed wood reduces demand for new lumber while adding unique character to exteriors.Bamboo: A rapidly renewable resource, bamboo is being used for siding and decking in eco-conscious designs.Green Roofs: Vegetative roofs not only insulate buildings but also reduce urban heat islands and improve air quality.Metal Roofing: Durable and recyclable, metal roofs are a popular choice for homeowners seeking long-lasting, low-maintenance options.Designing with ResilienceSustainability in exterior design goes hand in hand with resilience. Homes must withstand climate change impacts such as extreme weather, temperature fluctuations and rising energy costs. Materials like brick, concrete and metal offer durability and protection against these challenges, ensuring homes remain functional and aesthetically pleasing for decades.Challenges in SustainabilityWhile sustainable materials are increasingly accessible, architects must balance cost considerations with environmental benefits. Additionally, sourcing reclaimed or recycled materials may require more time and effort than traditional options, but the long-term benefits both ecological and economic are worth the investment.The Story Behind the TrendsThese trends arent coming out of nowhere. Theyre the result of a careful dance between data and intuition, between what people are asking for and what designers know theyll need. Having had help from an expert in architectural materials at Glen-Gery, they have taken a particularly thoughtful approach to identifying these trends. Through surveys, direct engagement with architects and designers, and a deep dive into customer preferences, theyve crafted a vision of 2025 that feels both grounded and aspirational. Their 2025 Brick Color of the Year, a matte gray called Silver City, embodies the balance of elegance and versatility that defines this years design ethos. Its a color that works with every palette, every texture, every spaceexactly the kind of timeless choice that 2025 is all about.As the new year unfolds, one thing is clear: 2025 isnt just about how homes look. Its about how they feelhow they make us feel. Its about stepping into a room and feeling a sense of calm, knowing that every element has been chosen with care. Its about walking up to a house and seeing not just a structure but a story. And its about creating spaces that honor the world around us while embracing the lives we live within them. This is the future of designa future that feels like home.Architizer's 13th A+Awards features a suite of sustainability-focused categories recognizing designers that are building a greener industry and a better future. Start your entry to receive global recognition for your work!The post Architects Guide: Home Design Trends in 2025 appeared first on Journal.

Winter is a unique season for portraits, offering a chance to capture the contrast of cold surroundings with the warmth of human connection. With a bit of planning, you can create portraits that arent just seasonal, but also deeply atmospheric. Heres how to approach winter portraits with a professional touch, focusing on advanced techniques for light, texture, and storytelling.Leveraging winter lightThe quality of light in wintersoft, low, and slightly diffuseoffers excellent opportunities for portrait photographers to craft intimate and evocative images. Understanding how to use and shape this light will give your portraits a signature winter mood. Utilize reflective snow lightIn winter, snow acts as a natural reflector, filling shadows on the subjects face with a soft, cool glow. Position your subject to face the snow to take full advantage of this effect, which creates a subtle, even light that highlights skin tones and softens facial lines. For added control, try using a handheld reflector to bring a warm tone back into the skin if needed. Play with side lighting for depthPositioning your subject at a 45-degree angle to the light source (sun or artificial) allows you to create a balance of light and shadow on the face. This technique, often called Rembrandt lighting, emphasizes depth and creates a more sculpted look. In winter, side lighting can add a striking, dimensional quality to the subject against softer snowy backgrounds.Using backlight for dramaWinter sun tends to stay low throughout the day, making backlighting more accessible and less intense than in summer. This light is perfect for creating a soft halo effect around your subjects hair or clothing, lending a dreamy quality to the portrait. Keep exposure slightly lower to avoid washing out the background and preserve detail in the subjects silhouette.Adding texture and atmosphereTexture in winter portraits goes beyond clothingits about building layers of mood and story within the frame. Try to bring out textures that enhance the emotional tone of the portrait, whether its the frost on trees or the softness of snowflakes. Use natural elements to frame the shotPosition your subject among bare branches, evergreen boughs, or snow-covered fences. These elements add foreground interest, creating depth and drawing attention to the subject. Look for textures like ice or frosted grass to surround the frame and contrast with the warmth of the person.Incorporate breath or steam for moodOn especially cold days, visible breath or steam from a hot drink can add a sense of realism and place to your portrait. Timing is essential herehave your subject exhale slowly and watch for natural patterns, as capturing this detail can bring an intimate, candid feel to the portrait. You can also use the steam to soften the background, giving it a painterly effect. Composition techniques for winter portraitsWinter landscapes are often minimal and muted, which can allow for bold composition choices. Embrace the simplicity of winter backdrops to emphasize form and content.Negative space for minimalismPosition your subject within a vast, snow-covered landscape to create a sense of isolation or peaceful solitude. By using negative space, you allow the subject to become the main point of focus, surrounded by the expansive quiet of winter. This technique is powerful for conveying emotion, whether its calm, introspection, or resilience. Leading lines with footprintsIf youre photographing in fresh snow, consider using your subjects footprints as leading lines to guide the viewers eye. Footprints can add a storytelling element to the portrait, suggesting movement or journey, and adding subtle texture to the snow.Layering with background elementsAdd depth by including layers of elements in the background, such as snow-covered trees or rolling hills. This setup emphasizes the subjects place within a larger scene, creating a narrative that feels immersive. The contrast between the subject and these background layers is especially effective when your subject wears a contrasting color, such as deep red or forest green, to stand out against the white surroundings. Advanced tips for winter portraitsHere are some additional tips that go beyond the basics to help you make the most of winter portrait sessions.Try shallow depth of field to blur snowflakesA wide aperture (e.g., f/2.8) allows you to blur the falling snow, adding a dreamy, magical effect. Experiment with different distances from your subject to control how the snowflakes appearcloser to the lens creates larger, more pronounced blurs, while a bit of distance creates a gentle haze.Experiment with shutter speed to capture falling snowUse a slower shutter speed (around 1/100) to capture the movement of snowflakes for a gentle, streaked effect. This setting works well in low light and brings out the motion within the frame, giving the scene a sense of quiet action. For a crisper, more playful look, increase the shutter speed to freeze individual flakes in mid-air, especially in brighter conditions.Cold weather gear careWinter elements can be hard on camera gear. Bring extra batteries, as the cold drains them quickly, and keep a microfiber cloth handy to wipe off snow or condensation. Store your camera in a sealed bag before moving it back indoors to prevent condensation from forming on the lens or sensor.By focusing on advanced lighting techniques, intentional composition, and creative use of atmosphere, you can create winter portraits that go beyond the traditional. Whether your goal is to convey warmth, solitude, or the quiet beauty of winter, these techniques will allow you to capture the seasons essence in a way that resonates with viewers and stands out from the ordinary.Not on 500px yet? Sign up here to explore more impactful photography.The post Creative approaches to winter portraits appeared first on 500px.

Bandai Namco teased a Pac-Man-related surprise for The Game Awards and revealed it during the pre-show. Based on the opening, you would think this is a dark Metroidvania title with side-scrolling elements, combat, and platforming. However, theres also a dark Pac-Man-like companion traveling alongside the player. Check out Shadow Labyrinth below.While it seems out of nowhere, Shadow Labyrinth appears to be based on the Pac-Man short from the Secret Level anthology series. It does explain why the latter took a body horror approach to the beloved arcade series as you control Swordsman No. 8 and work alongside PUCK, a sinister floating entity.Theres the usual pellet consumption, but the latter can also possess the former to consume their enemies, including bosses, mutating into a nightmarish entity.Were just as confused as you are, but you cant fault Bandai Namco for trying something new. Shadow Labyrinth launches in 2025 for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Nintendo Switch.

As one of the best roguelike games of all time, one of the best deck-building games of all time, and one of the greatest indie titles ever made,Slay the Spiresplace in gamings history books is secure- so its no surprise that excitement surrounding its sequel has been sky-high ever since it was announced earlier this year. Now, Mega Crit has offered another look at the game.Taking the stage at The Game Awards, the developer showcased another trailer forSlay the Spire 2, this time debuting gameplay footage for the roguelike title. Different card, enemies, combat mechanics, and more are showcased, while the games gorgeous, stylized aesthetic is also on full display. Check out the full trailer below.Slay the Spire 2is due to release in early access for Steam sometime in early 2025, with a specific launch date currently unknown. Stay tuned for more details on the title in the coming weeks and months.