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How Wedding Photographers Handle Rainy Days

Writer's picture: Shawn EastmanShawn Eastman

Bride and groom dancing in the rain on a wet road on their wedding day

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





  1. 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.



Bride and groom preparing to kiss under an umbrella on a rainy wedding day



  1. 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.



Rain falling on ground




  1. 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.



Bride and groom indoors stood against wall while holding hands and looking at each other smiling



  1. 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.



Groom kissing bride on the cheek as they stand under an umbrella in the rain on their wedding day



  1. 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.



Bride holding grooms face and smiling outdoors for photograph during a break in the rain




  1. 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.



Laptop for editing wedding photos


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?

Should I have a backup plan for photos if it rains?

Will my wedding dress get ruined in the rain?

Can you still take outdoor photos if it’s raining?

What if it’s dark and gloomy because of the weather?

Do you bring any special equipment for rainy weddings?

What if it’s really windy as well?

Will my hair and makeup get ruined in the rain?

Should I bring anything extra for a rainy wedding day?

How do you capture rain in a way that looks beautiful?

Can we still do golden hour photos if it’s cloudy?

Should we change our photography timeline if it rains?

What if there’s a thunderstorm?

Can we include rain in our photos intentionally?

Will a rainy wedding day affect the overall wedding experience?

What’s the best footwear for a rainy wedding?

How do you keep guests comfortable in the rain?

Can rain affect the quality of wedding photos?

What’s your best advice for couples worried about rain on their wedding day?


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About The Author

Shawn Eastman professional photographer

Hey, I’m Shawn, a British photographer with a passion for capturing the world’s most striking moments - whether it’s a dramatic sunset over the Indian Ocean, a beautiful wedding, a sleek classic car, or a high-energy fashion shoot.

Since picking up my first camera at 17, I’ve honed my craft across five continents, working with globally recognised brands and telling stories through landscapes, travel, love, and lifestyle photography.

 

My favourite challenge? Finding a unique perspective that makes you stop, think, admire, or simply smile.

When I’m not behind the lens, I’m probably practicing guitar, running, dreaming about my next adventure or enjoying the South Wales coastline.

 

Let’s connect and create something unforgettable - you can learn more about me and my work by clicking through to my dedicated biography.

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