Conquering the Elements During a Wedding Day Photoshoot
As any seasoned wedding photographer knows, Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate with the best-laid plans (especially in Texas!) The sun may be shining one moment, and the next, dark clouds roll in and thunder threatens a storm in the distance. Unexpected weather issues is something no photographer wants to have surprise them on the day of a big wedding photoshoot.
While unexpected weather changes can be a source of stress for the couple-to-be-wed, as a professional wedding photographer, I know how to adapt and turn any potential weather setback into a stunning photo opportunity. You can leave all your trust in me that we will still create wedding magic amongst the storm.
3 Ways to Embrace Unexpected Weather as a Wedding Photographer
Despite having experience navigating unexpected weather changes during a wedding, I still refer to my top 3 tips for conquering a storm in order to ensure a successful wedding photoshoot.
Adapting to unexpected weather changes requires a combination of preparedness, creativity, and a willingness to think on your feet. With that being said, these are my three tips to help other wedding photographers navigate (and rock!) a wedding photoshoot in unpredictable weather conditions:
1. Be Prepared
The Boy Scouts weren’t wrong when they coined the motto “Be Prepared.” As a wedding photographer, you should always have a contingency plan in place for inclement weather. This means packing essential gear, such as waterproof camera covers, umbrellas, and lens cloths.
Additionally, scout the venue beforehand to identify potential indoor shooting locations or covered areas that can serve as backdrops if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Don’t forget to build in extra time to the wedding itinerary to allow for if things need to be scooted or postponed as weather blows through.
2. Embrace the Elements
Rather than viewing unexpected weather as a catastrophe, see it as an opportunity to get creative with your shots. Rain, fog, or snow can add a touch of drama and romance to wedding photos, creating images that stand out from the typical sunny-day shots.
Not only that, but this could allow you to experiment with different lighting techniques that are designed to capture unique weather elements.
Similarly, encourage the couple to embrace the moment, whether it’s dancing in the rain or cuddling under an umbrella, and let their love shine through despite the weather. This will not only create gorgeous photos, but a memory of the unexpected weather that joined them on the happiest day of their life!
Finally, I always aim to communicate with the wedding couple every hour or so to keep them updated on how things are looking lighting and weather wise. This helps them know that I have all of these details covered and they don’t have to worry about a thing!
3. Stay Flexible
Flexibility is key when it comes to adapting to unexpected weather changes. Keep an open line of communication with the couple and be prepared to adjust the wedding timeline or location of the shoot if necessary.
Remember that spontaneity can lead to some of the most memorable and authentic moments captured on camera, too! Stay calm, stay flexible, and trust in your ability to capture beautiful images regardless of the weather conditions.
Add It To Your Resume
While unexpected weather changes can create a few extra challenges during a wedding photoshoot, they also offer opportunities for creativity and fun. I encourage you to step up and rise to the occasion, taking advantage of a chance to really challenge yourself as a wedding photographer. It could become something you add to your resume so that future couples feel safe using your skills on their wedding day.
By being prepared, embracing the elements, and staying flexible, you can turn any weather-related setback into a memorable and magical experience for the couple, and yourself!
So, the next time dark clouds start to make their way near your shoot, don’t panic! Embrace the moment and let your creativity soar.
A Rainy Wedding Day for The Jasek’s
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