Wedding season is ready to get into full swing shortly with the arrival of Spring , and on a rainy day even, I thought I would share some tips for how to make the most out of your wedding photography when rain is in the forecast!
Main rule, Don’t stress over the forecast. You’re not going to change it, so don’t spend the week ahead of your big day stressing over the predicted rainfall. If it isn’t something within your control, don’t let it take control. The attitude you have about the weather makes a big difference! There are ways of working around a rainy day, and even a few things that are actually working in your favor if your wedding lands on a rainy day. First of all, remember, a gray overcast day is a photographer’s best friend for lighting (plus colors looks more saturated, too). And whether you believe in superstitions or not, remember that rain is considered good luck on your wedding day! According to old proverbs, rain signifies a cleansing - rain on your wedding day washes away sadness from your past and signifies your marriage will last. Rain is also a symbol of fertility in cultures based in agriculture. They believe rain is a blessing because it signifies fertility and growth. Still yet, Hindu cultures see it as a sign of a lasting marriage to come because a wet knot is harder to untie. I guess there are plenty of reasons to believe rain really is a sign of good luck! So, if it is going to rain, just be prepared with a Plan B. Here are some tips to help you plan for a rainy wedding day….
1) Be flexible with your schedule. Chances are, it isn’t going to rain all day. If you really want outdoor photos, be ready to change up the schedule to make it work. Apps like Dark Skies can provide valuable info as to when to expect rainfall. You can try to plan your schedule around the rain, but don’t rely on it. If you have to take some photos indoors, by all means do that. You don’t want to be left with nothing because you planned on it letting up later in the day, and it just doesn’t happen!
2) Purchase clear bubble umbrellas for the bridal party (and other rain gear). Amazon even offers these in bulk (12 umbrellas for $90). Clear umbrellas will let light through for more flattering overall lighting, but still keep you dry. If you’re game to go out in the rain, these are a must. Just a side note: If it is absolutely downpouring, the rain drops will show up in photos. These are perfect for light to moderate rainfall and working around it. You may also want to consider rainboots to pop on - if the ground is muddy or wet at all, you’ll be thankful to not be sinking into it in your bridal heels (click here for samples). Shower caps and ponchos can also be helpful to get you from Point A to B. And if it is a little chilly because of the rain, consider adding a jean/leather jacket or shawl.
3) Look for alternative outdoor options. Get creative. If you want to go outside, maybe there is an overhang you can use, an open sided tent, or a tree that provides enough coverage to stand under if its just sprinkling. Just because you can’t stand out in the wide open, doesn’t mean there isn’t some other options for outdoor spaces that provide protection from the rain.
4) Scope out indoor spaces. While you may want to be outside, if the forecast doesn’t look like that is going to be an option, look to what your venue has to offer as an indoor space. Things to consider - time. If you are getting married in a church, some have a late afternoon service and you are only allowed to be in the space for a certain amount of time. If you have to be out, you’re going to have to look for another space. Space: does your venue have enough space to do group portraits? You may need to talk to your photographer about the lenses they use and how much space they require for group shots. Guests: If your guests are going to be milling about in the space, will they be in backgrounds or disruptive of photo time? Lighting: if your space is overly dark, does your photographer have the equipment to make it a workable space (and is there enough room to set up the equipment?) If you don’t like what your venue has to offer as an indoor space or think it isn’t viable after considering these questions, check into alternative options. A lot of public spaces, like museums, will let you come use their space for little or no cost. You always want to seek permission ahead of time just in case it comes down to needing an alternate space to go to.
Ultimately it comes down to this - Discuss options with your photographer beforehand and have a plan. I can’t stress this enough! Be sure your photographer knows what they are walking into so they have the proper equipment on that day - whether it be raingear, specialty lighting, etc. Don’t hand them a “make it work” moment on the day of the wedding and just expect them to figure it out. With proper planning and a little bit of extra creativity, you can make a rainy day wedding work for your photography, too!