Finding the right spot will help determine how comfortably you pass the night. Ideal is a site with a view, which get the first rays of the morning sun, and which is sheltered from any wind. For those of you who haven't ever camped in winter, wind is the worst enemy to your comfort, rattling your tent, chilling your hands as you cook or work, and generally making life more difficult. Once you've found a spot, pack down the snow into a smooth platform before you set up the tent. Roll out your pads and sleeping bags inside, and you're home.
Water is as critical in winter camping as it is in summer.
If you can find a safe source of water, great. If not, you'll have to melt your water supply. When melting snow for water, ice or crust is denser and much less trouble than loose snow. You wouldn't believe the amount of powder snow it takes to make a quart of water. Liquids are important in winter camping.