Environment Planet Earth Rural Vignettes Capture the Warmth of Winter By Catie Leary Writer and Photographer Georgia State University Catie Leary writes and curates visual stories about science, animals, the arts, travel, and the natural world. our editorial process Catie Leary Updated December 12, 2018 Share Twitter Pinterest Email Planet Earth Weather Outdoors Conservation All. (Photo: Elena Shumilova) All photos: Elena Shumilova Need to cheer yourself up this winter? The heartwarming portfolio of Russian photographer Elena Shumilova is filled with beautiful moments that illustrate the innocence and curiosity of childhood. As a mother of two living on a rural farm with dozens of animals, Shumilova has no shortage of situations to shoot. In her more wintry-themed photographs, it's easy to find yourself enchanted by Shumilova's distinct photographic style, even at a time of year that is often considered dreary. Whether her two kids frolic in the snow with their dog or cuddle up with kitties against a frost-covered window, there's no doubt that these moments are the perfect embodiment of "hygge" — a Danish concept that roughly translates to "coziness." Although Shumilova began her photographic journey relatively recently in 2012, it wasn't long before her photos found viral fame, gaining a social media following on her 500px and Flickr pages. Continue below for more of Shumilova's winter-themed photographs that are sure to lift your winter blues. * * *