Don't Fear the Rain: Why Bad Weather Doesn't Mean Bad Photos
Ah, rain in Wales - what a shocker! If I had a pound for every time I checked the forecast before a wedding and saw a little grey cloud with raindrops, I could probably retire. But here’s the thing - rainy wedding days aren’t a disaster. A rainy wedding day may sound like a nightmare for any bride, groom and wedding photographer - but that really doesn't need to be the case at all.
In fact, rain on your wedding day can lead to some of the most unique, romantic, and downright stunning wedding photos imaginable.
So, if you’re worried about your big day being a washout, let me reassure you: your wedding photos will still be absolutely magical.
Let’s dive into how professional photographers turn a rainy day into a golden opportunity for creative, breath-taking rainy wedding photography.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Embracing the Rain: Why It’s Not a Bad Thing
A little drizzle (or even a full-on downpour) can actually work in your favour. Think about it - soft, diffused lighting, dramatic reflections, and those intimate, cinematic moments with umbrellas. Some of the most iconic wedding shots happen in the rain because it adds atmosphere, emotion, and a sense of adventure to your photos.
The Romance of Rain
Think of those movie moments where a couple kisses in the rain - pure magic!
Rain brings out deep, rich tones in photos, making colours pop beautifully.
It creates stunning reflections on wet pavements for an artistic, moody effect.
Essential Gear: How Photographers Prepare for Rain
A professional wedding photographer doesn’t just show up and hope for the best on a rainy day.
Oh no.. we come well prepared!
Here’s what’s in our wet-weather wedding kit:
Rain proofing the Camera Gear
Waterproof camera covers and lens hoods to keep the equipment safe.
Microfibre cloths to quickly dry off lenses between shots.
Backup gear in case anything gets unexpectedly soaked.
Bringing the Right Accessories
An umbrella: This is a must! A wedding day umbrella each is just fine but in my opinion it's especially cute when the umbrella is large enough for you to share. It keeps you both dry and makes for a lovely prop that won't look at all out of place in any of the photos.
Cute rain boots: If the ground’s muddy, a hidden pair of wellies can be a lifesaver!
Shawls or wraps: To keep the bride warm and comfortable between shots.
Finding Beautiful Indoor Locations
If it’s really tipping it down, we get creative with indoor spaces. Many wedding venues in Cardiff and South Wales have stunning or interesting interiors that make for incredible backdrops.
Best Indoor Wedding Photo Locations in Cardiff & South Wales:
Cardiff Castle - Stunning historic architecture and grand interiors.
The Coal Exchange Hotel - Elegant and moody, perfect for timeless shots.
Insole Court - A beautiful old manor house with endless indoor charm.
Canada Lodge & Lake - Cosy lodge vibes with stunning window-light opportunities.
Your photographer will scout locations in advance so that, rain or shine, you have plenty of gorgeous places and cool looking sports for candid in-the-moment shots, group photos and intimate bride and groom newlywed portraits.
4. Creative Rainy Day Wedding Photo Ideas
Rainy days don’t limit creativity - they enhance it!
Here are some of the best ideas for stunning wet-weather wedding photography:
Dramatic Umbrella Shots
A couple under a clear or stylish umbrella, with raindrops glistening around them, is pure romance. Add in some backlighting and you’ve got a cinematic masterpiece.
Reflections on Wet Surfaces
Rain-soaked streets create beautiful mirror-like reflections, adding a dreamy, artistic touch to portraits.
Silhouettes in the Rain
Backlit rain photos look incredible. The falling droplets, illuminated by a flash, create a magical effect that can’t be replicated on a dry day.
Cosy & Candid Moments
Rain often brings a sense of intimacy - huddling under an umbrella, laughing as you dash between cover, snuggling up inside by candlelight. These natural, unscripted moments make for some of the best wedding photos.
Timing & Flexibility: Maximising Dry Spells
The beauty of Welsh weather? It changes constantly! A skilled wedding photographer will keep an eye on the local weather forecast and be ready to dash outside dragging the bride and groom along the moment there’s a dry spell.
Tactical Photo Planning:
Group photos can be taken indoors first, then couple portraits outside when the rain eases.
A quick 5-minute break in the rain? That’s all we need for some stunning outdoor shots!
Sunset rain? Even better - dramatic skies and soft light create cinematic wedding photos.
Post-Processing Magic: Making Rain Look Even More Stunning
Even if the rain is a bit heavy on the day, post-processing can work wonders. A little bit of editing can enhance reflections, soften light, and even remove unwanted raindrops from faces or clothing.
Editing Enhancements:
Boosting contrast & mood to enhance the dramatic rain effect.
Softening wet skin tones to keep you looking your absolute best.
Adding artistic effects like mist or extra rain for a fairy-tale feel.
My Final Thoughts: Rain Won’t Ruin Your Wedding Photos - It’ll Make Them Better
If you’re getting married in Cardiff or anywhere in South Wales, you know that rain is always a possibility. But trust me when I say it’s never something to fear. With the right preparation, creative thinking, and a positive attitude, you’ll end up with wedding photos that are not only beautiful but also completely unique to your love story.
So, embrace the weather, grab a gorgeous umbrella, and get ready for some of the most unforgettable wedding photos ever!
FAQs About How Wedding Photographers Handle Rainy Days
Will rain ruin my wedding photos?
Not at all! In fact, rain can create some of the most unique and romantic wedding photos imaginable. Think moody skies, glistening reflections, and intimate moments under an umbrella. A good wedding photographer knows how to work with the weather, not against it.
What happens if it rains on my wedding day?
No need to panic! As a wedding photographer, I always have a backup plan. We’ll scout indoor locations, bring umbrellas, and embrace the rain creatively. Some of the most stunning wedding shots happen when couples dance in the rain or share a cosy moment under cover.
Should I have a backup plan for photos if it rains?
Absolutely! It’s always a good idea to check if your venue has indoor options or covered areas for wedding photos. That way, if the heavens open up, we’ll still have beautiful spots to work with. Also, keeping a few stylish umbrellas and a pair of emergency wellies on hand never hurts!
Will my wedding dress get ruined in the rain?
If you’re stepping onto wet ground, yes, your dress might pick up a little dirt or moisture. But a great tip is to have a bridesmaid hold up the hem, use a waterproof fabric spray, or even bring a second, more casual dress for outdoor shots. And hey, a little adventure adds to the memories!
Can you still take outdoor photos if it’s raining?
Absolutely! Light rain can create beautiful reflections and dreamy, misty backgrounds. If it’s a heavier downpour, we can use covered areas like archways, gazebos, or tree canopies to keep you dry while still
capturing the outdoor scenery.
What if it’s dark and gloomy because of the weather?
Dark, overcast skies actually make for some of the best wedding photography lighting. No harsh shadows, no squinting - just soft, flattering light that makes skin tones look amazing! Plus, with a bit of creative lighting and/or editing, we can add warmth and drama to the shots.
Do you bring any special equipment for rainy weddings?
Yes! I come prepared with waterproof covers for my camera gear, a large umbrella (which can look stunning in photos), and an external flash just in case I need to take extra measures to compensate for darker skies. I also bring plenty of towels - both for my equipment and for any quick touch-ups you may need!
What if it’s really windy as well?
Wind can actually add a beautifully dramatic effect to your photos, especially with flowing veils or dresses. If it’s too gusty, we’ll find sheltered spots to keep things under control. And if your veil is determined to fly away, we can always ditch it for a more natural, wind-swept look!
Will my hair and makeup get ruined in the rain?
Not if you prepare for it! Opt for waterproof mascara, a setting spray, and consider an updo if you’re worried about frizz. A good hairstylist will know how to secure your look against the elements. And remember - natural, windswept hair can look effortlessly stunning and natural in photos!
10. Should I bring anything extra for a rainy wedding day?
A few handy items can make a big difference:
Clear or white umbrellas (they look amazing in photos!)
A second pair of shoes (wet grass and high heels don’t mix well)
A cosy wrap or jacket (especially for those outdoor shots)
Blotting paper/tissues (just in case of rain-induced shine)
How do you capture rain in a way that looks beautiful?
I embrace natural light and the atmosphere it creates. Rain can add a soft, romantic mist to photos, and puddles create stunning reflections. I also use the rain itself as a storytelling element - whether it’s droplets on a window, a couple wrapped up under an umbrella, or the way the light catches the wet ground. It’s all about finding the best angles and making the most of the moment!
Can we still do golden hour photos if it’s cloudy?
While golden hour light might be hidden, we can still create stunning, warm-lit portraits with artificial lighting. Cloudy skies often make colours pop, and we can even add a bit of golden warmth in post-processing to keep that dreamy feel.
Should we change our photography timeline if it rains?
Not necessarily, but some minor tweaks might help - or at least ensuring the timeline remains fairly flexible for ad-hoc changes. If heavy rain is expected at a certain time, we might swap outdoor photos for earlier or later in the day. I always keep a flexible approach so we can adapt to whatever the weather throws at us.
What if there’s a thunderstorm?
For safety reasons, if there’s lightning, we’ll avoid open areas until it passes. But stormy skies? They make for some of the most dramatic and epic wedding portraits ever! If we catch a break in the rain, we’ll head out for some unique stormy-backdrop shots.
Can we include rain in our photos intentionally?
Yes! Some couples actually want rain in their shots because it adds a cinematic, romantic feel. If you’re up for it, we can create magical rain-kissed portraits with careful lighting to make the droplets sparkle.
Will a rainy wedding day affect the overall wedding experience?
Only if you let it! Some of the most unforgettable weddings happen in unexpected weather. Guests huddled together under umbrellas, impromptu dance-offs indoors, and laughter as you embrace the elements - it’s all part of your unique love story.
What’s the best footwear for a rainy wedding?
If you’re having an outdoor ceremony or photo session, consider stylish wedding wellies or waterproof flats. If you want to keep your heels, bring a backup pair for dry areas. Bonus: Cute wellies make for amazing, playful wedding photos!
How do you keep guests comfortable in the rain?
Provide blankets or pashminas if it's chilly.
Offer hot drinks (mulled wine, anyone?) at the reception.
Have plenty of umbrellas on hand for guests to use.
If your venue has outdoor space, set up a covered area for mingling.
Can rain affect the quality of wedding photos?
Not when handled correctly! A professional wedding photographer knows how to adapt to any weather. Adjusting camera settings, using protective gear, and embracing natural elements ensure that your photos turn out just as stunning - if not more so - than on a sunny day.
What’s your best advice for couples worried about rain on their wedding day?
Embrace it! Some things are out of our control, but your wedding is about love, joy, and celebration - not just the weather. Rainy wedding photos can be some of the most breathtakingly beautiful images, full of raw emotion and atmosphere. So grab an umbrella, dance in the drizzle, and let’s create something amazing together!
