Rainy Wedding Day Photos [Tips to Navigate the Rain]
They say rain on your wedding day is lucky, but I can bet that most couples won’t feel very lucky if it downpours when they’re saying their vows during an outdoor ceremony or trying to take group photos. Couples spend hours getting ready – getting their hair and makeup done, getting dressed – and the rain can put all that hard work to shame.
It’s certainly not great when it rains on your wedding day, but there are ways to overcome it.
Some photographers can accommodate shooting in the rain, while some can’t. In this article, I’ll discuss how you can prepare for rain on your wedding day. I’ll provide some shot ideas for the most beautiful wedding photos, even if rain isn’t what you had in the forecast.
Make a Backup Plan
If you’re hosting any part of your wedding outdoors, you need to have a backup plan in case of bad weather (rain, extreme temps, excessive winds). Your first step should be to talk to your venue to find out if there are alternative spots to host the ceremony, reception, and dance (or anything you plan to host outside).
A lot of venues have indoor spaces you can utilize. You’ll still be able to capture cozy and intimate moments indoors if the weather is bad.
Find the Right Photographer
Before you book a photographer, talk to everyone you meet with about their stance on photographing in the elements. Some photographers are willing to do it and some aren’t. For instance, my cameras are weatherproof and rain is no big deal. As long as it’s safe to be outside in the elements, I’m happy to run out into the rain with you to get the perfect shot.
You may also want to work with a photographer who has worked in the elements before and therefore has experience with it. They’ll know what to do when the rain hits and they’ll also have awesome ideas for beautiful shots.
Together, you and your photographer can come up with a plan of attack for shooting in the rain.
Bring Props
If you’re getting married during the rainy season or you live in a particularly wet climate, it’s a good idea to prepare for the rain just in case by bringing some props. Think umbrellas and rain boots. You can get romantic with clear umbrellas or go bold with ones that match your color scheme. Keep in mind: Clear umbrellas won’t cast a shadow like colored ones will.
These props will not only protect you from the rain, but they’ll also add some personality and fun to the photos.
To protect your dress, you may consider a bridal petticoat, which can lift the hem of your gown to prevent it from dragging on the ground. Consider spraying the hem of your dress with Scotchgard to protect it from mud stains. You can also have your bridal party follow behind you, lifting up the train and back of your dress as needed.
Extra towels and a hair dryer are a must, too. And of course, you may want extra supplies to touch up your hair and makeup.
Trust Your Photographer
You trust your photographer, right? Chances are, they’ve shot in bad weather in the past and they know what to do.
You may not be able to get every photo on your shot list, but your photographer will have some great ideas. Not only will your photos be beautiful, but they’ll be unique.
Imagine you and your partner holding an umbrella, running through the rain, holding hands, and having a great time. The raindrops will create a beautiful haze behind you and will enhance the natural lighting.
Plus, wedding photography is meant to tell the story of your day. If it downpours, your photographer will be there to capture it.
Enjoy the Moment
Rain on your wedding day might not be what you wanted, and you might feel frustrated in the moment, but try to have fun with it as much as you can. It’ll definitely make for a great story later in life.
Rain can lead to spontaneous and candid moments. Enjoy the unexpected and genuine expressions. Focus on the love between you and your partner and allow your photographer to take candid shots as you embrace the elements.
Embrace the Rain
While rain on your wedding day may not be the ideal scenario, it doesn't have to dampen the spirit of the celebration. Planning ahead with a backup venue, selecting a photographer experienced in adverse weather conditions, and bringing along some creative props can turn a rainy day into a unique and memorable experience.
Trust in your photographer's expertise and embrace the spontaneous moments that rain can bring. Remember, the unexpected can lead to some of the most authentic and beautiful wedding photos.
So, instead of letting the rain ruin your day, let it add a touch of magic to your love story. After all, as the saying goes, a little rain might just bring a lot of luck to your marriage.
Be sure you’re working with a photographer (like me) who will run out into the rain with you. To learn more, set up a video call here.
