Out of all the questions that I get asked, there is always fear of what to do about a rainy wedding day. I get it. They’re planning their only wedding day and the weather is always a huge concern! There’s two perspectives that I want to cover. I feel handling a rainy wedding day can be helpful for both brides and photographers!

Let’s start with the bride’s perspective:

Don’t stress about it!

I know this sounds like the worst advice I could give to a bride but trust me when I say “don’t stress about it” because If I’m being honest it doesn’t help or change anything. In fact, it can just make things a little more stressful for everybody else when the bride is stressed. Everything will work out! Side note: Keep an open mind on the main priority of the whole day; to get married. Whether it happens exactly the way you’ve always been envisioning or whether there are a few hiccups along the way, try to keep your mind on the end result!

Have a backup plan!

There are two different ways this can go. If you are getting married at a location that is not a verified wedding venue ( i.e.: personal property, backyard wedding) make sure that you have a back up plan in case it would rain. And I’m not talking about a little umbrella drizzle. I’m talking like a monsoon that you cannot be outside for any event. I know you’re not purposely planning on it to rain a heavy downpour. It’s always safe to just have a back up location in the event if something would happen, you’d prepared which will help eliminate stress! Win-Win!

If you’re getting married at a venue: I would highly recommend asking what their rainy wedding day back up plan is or if they have an indoor ceremony site option. Another thing to keep in mind is if they have a porch area or area with an overhang that you could be under for your photographs! Another great option would be an indoor location like this!

Trust your vendors!

We are here to help you and do the best that we can to serve you regardless of the weather. We should have experience handling rainy wedding days so just sit back and relax and let us work our magic! ;)

Let’s check out the photographer’s perspective:

Check the weather!

Again, such a simple piece of advice but it’s such an easy way to come prepared! You’ll know ahead of schedule if you need to bring extra rain gear or equipment if needed! A few things that I always take with me:

• Clear umbrellas: I own 15 of these! The reason that any other umbrella does NOT work (a black, gray or dark colored umbrella) is that you’re going to be blocking the light from the bridesmaids or bride, which will cast really dark shadows on their face. If you use clear umbrellas, it still allows all of the light to come through and you don’t even notice it on their faces!
• Rain boots and rain coat: I try not to look like a drowned rat for the ceremony or guests which is just my personal preference (haha).
• Camera Storm Jacket: I personally do not own or have used this item, but I have heard of it through other photographers. It’s a protective case that goes over your camera and lens while still allowing you to photograph in the rain if needed!

FULL DISCLOSURE: I do receive a small commission off of the links to Amazon if you decide to purchase! If you found this blog post helpful, consider using the links when buying new gear!

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Stay a while and check out this beautiful winter engagement session!