Creative Photography Tricks at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026

2/28/2026 ISO 1200 Magazine 0 Comments

Capturing the essence of the Winter Olympics in a bustling city like Milan requires a blend of technical precision and creative artifice. When natural snow is absent, photographers must rely on optical illusions to transport the viewer to the slopes.

One effective method involves using simple materials like white styrofoam. By carving a hole in the material and shooting from a low angle, you create a foreground that mimics a snowy landscape. This instantly changes the context of an urban backdrop into a winter scene.

Projecting Dreams Through Reflections

Reflections can add deep conceptual layers to a portrait. By using the glass of a model's eyewear, you can project action from a high-definition screen—like Olympic sports—directly into the lens.

This requires placing the subject close to the screen to manage sharp reflection angles and ensure the image is clear.

Texture is the final key to a convincing winter shot. Introducing fake snow into the frame creates a sense of movement. Whether it is resting on a helmet or falling through the air, it adds the tactile detail needed to sell the illusion of a freezing environment.

Winter Creative Resume

These tricks show that you do not need a blizzard to capture winter magic. With a few props and the right perspective, any city street can become an Olympic stage.

Creative Tricks Summary:

• Styrofoam Framing: Use white styrofoam with a hole to simulate a snow-covered foreground.
• Screen Reflections: Use eyewear to reflect dynamic video content for a "dream-like" effect.
• Forced Perspective: Shoot from a low angle to hide the city pavement and emphasize the "snow."
• Action Texture: Throw fake snow over the model to simulate an active blizzard.

Location Milan, Italy (Olympic Pop-up Store)

Main Props Fake Snow, Styrofoam, Ski Gear

Key Technique Optical Illusions & Reflections

Video and images via Jordi Koalitic