“What happens if it rains on my wedding day?” Did that subject line get your heart racing a bit? Rain can be a huge stressor for photo sessions!!

Firstly, rain is romantic. When I see rain, I can’t help but think about the intense rain scene in “The Notebook”. Rain can create a beautiful and romantic atmosphere that can help you get beautiful photos. But you have to make sure you are prepared for it.

The sky that you can get during or after a rain storm can be so beautiful! Check out this image of Dakota and Brian. We raced to get photos done before the downpour happened!

Rain on your Wedding Day Tips

As a wedding photographer, it is my job to be prepared and reassure our clients when bad weather is in the forecast. I have to be able to protect my equipment while still looking professional and creating high quality images that match my portfolio. But these things are things that I will have in my car and in my camera bag to be prepared…even if rain hits unexpectedly! This way, I know that I am always prepared and am never caught off-guard. I’m able to serve my clients no matter what circumstance!

Clear Umbrellas

I always bring my clear umbrellas for my clients. I keep enough for a full bridal party in case of WORST possible case scenario…and we have to do all portraits outside in the rain. And then I have a big one for myself! Got to protect my gear! But if you want to bring your own umbrellas that match your wedding colors, go for it! I just recommend them all matching and be sure to get enough for your whole wedding party!

I’ve got these umbrellas from Amazon – they work great!

A Clear Shower Curtain

Say what? Yup, you read that right, a clear shower curtain! If it is raining or rained prior to photos I bring a clear shower curtain to put under the brides dress and then tuck the corners under to protect the dress!

See in the photo below. It rained all day the day before so I put the shower curtain down in the wheat and then they stood on it. Dry toes for everyone and you can’t see it!

Covering my Gear

I also have a stash of “rain coats” for my gear to protect it from the elements. There is rain coats for cameras (yes check it out!), but as of now I use zip lock bags and they work great!

Rubber Boots

I will be wearing my bright pink rubber boots. Haha, stylish I know! (Not really!) But I want to be able to step where I need to get the good shot! And if that means stepping in a puddle, I will! What don’t you consider wearing a stylish pair of boots under your dress too?

Search for Alternate Covered Locations

Another option if it is raining pretty hard is looking for covered locations. These can include entry ways of a beautiful building, a greenhouse, stairwells, park aids, gazebos, and other natural lit locations.

Also consider the cost of a rental location. There are many beautiful and natural lit indoor locations in most cities. Some examples are museums, coffee shops, universities, spas, heritage buildings and more! Most indoor locations have a small fee to rent the space. Feel free to message me to get a list of indoor locations.

Snow

Yes I know snow isn’t technically rain, but I wanted to include it in this post and give you some tips to prepare yourself for your winter photos!

• Invest in Winter Accessories (faux fur stole, a cape or even a veil
• Wear tights under your wedding attire
• Consider stylish and warm winter footwear
• Keep your hands toasty with mitts or hand warmers for between shots
• Keep the vehicles running close by and have a few warm up times between shots

Be sure to go into your wedding weekend with a few exit strategies for the various weather conditions that Saskatchewan can bring! Even if you ‘re relatively sure the sun will stay out for the duration of the festivities, it never huts to have a backup plan for any kind of weather. Be prepared. IT seems like an obvious solution, and that is only because it’s so important. Consider all of your options especially depending on the tine of year, weather that be to put up a tent, move to a move covered area, or switch your celebration to be indoors.

So whatever the weather, don’t worry, just be prepared and embrace the elements. And remember, rain is a symbol of new beginnings, so don’t let it wash away your wedding day bliss!