Bluebird Chic ambassador Dia of Michael & Dia Photography shares her best tips for photographing weddings in the rain.
I have been shooting weddings in Sunny Southern California for 12 years now, and in that time I have only photographed three of them in the rain (knock on wood). Two of the weddings were just shot recently, and only two weeks apart!
I have learned a few things that I would love to share with you!
TIP # 1 – CLOTHING
The first few tips I have are actually for the bride and groom. If you are planning a wedding that may occur during the rainy season, you may want to consider these two wardrobe tips:
One, don’t wear light colors…especially the groom! Rain will show up far more on a light colored suit than it will on black or any other darker color.
Two, You may want to suggest that your bride bring along another pair of comfortable shoes. As if maneuvering around in a wedding dress isn’t hard enough, the rain can add additional challenges and a comfortable, non-slip shoe, can only help.
TIP # 2 – Umbrellas!!!
Umbrellas are a must on a rainy day, but clear umbrellas will make your job so much easier! With the light being able to pass through, you will have evenly exposed images, saving you tons of processing time later.
Tip #3 – Location
Make sure you arrive early when you know there will be additional challenges on a wedding day. In the picture below, we were able to find a spot that was a bit drier because of the tall palm trees above us. You can also move indoors, or find a location that has a large eve or porch that you can shoot under.
TIP #4 – Use Every Minute!
Not only do I arrive early, but I also take advantage of every minute on a rainy day. If I see a brief part in the clouds, I will ask my bride and groom to step outside for a few quick photos. I always step outside first to make sure my camera setting are correct before I ask my couple to come outside. I already have in mind the poses I want to capture, and it can be done in a quick 5 minutes!
TIP # 5 – Bring an Assistant
I cannot stress this one enough. I had a second shooter with me at this wedding, but not an assistant. As you can see, holding the camera and shooting can prove to be quite tricky. If you can’t find an assistant, use a tripod! That way you can hold the umbrella with one hand and shoot with the other. The tripod will also help on those dark and gloomy days. The steadiness of the tripod will allow you to shoot with a lower shutter speed, letting in more light.
BONUS TIP: Keep your lens hood on and a microfiber cloth in your pocket. The hood gives you a little extra protection against raindrops getting on your lens, and the cloth will come in handy for when they do!)
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And remember, this is their special day! Keep a smile on your face and come prepared.
If they feel you can handle extra challenges, you will have a happy bride…even if she ends up soaked.
My name is Dia, and I am a mother, wife, and photographer. My husband and I have had the honor of professionally photographing weddings since 2006. I love organizing and planning: A goal without a plan is just a dream! I am a FOODIE! (A vegan one!) I LOVE running, beer and wine…they go together, right? Texting…it’s the best and easiest way to get a hold of me. And lastly, I admire Audrey Hepburn, for her classic beauty and everlasting elegance. Visti me at: http://www.diamerazphotography.com/
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