Can You Have a Great Maternity Photo Shoot If It Rains?
We’ve all had our plans changed or ruined entirely, more than a few times, because the weather has other plans. As a maternity photographer in the Seattle area, I’ve seen more than my fair share of uninvited rainclouds. But does rain have to ruin your maternity photo shoot if those clouds roll in on your day? Or can you still have a maternity photo shoot in the rain?
The short answer:
You can absolutely have your maternity photos taken if it rains! In fact, sometimes rain can make for some stunning and memorable portraits. It might just take some extra planning and creativity.
What to Do if Rain is Predicted for Your Maternity Photo Shoot
Every mom-to-be imagines her maternity portraits under the best-case scenario, so when you see rain on the forecast, it can throw you for a loop. But all it takes is a little extra planning and strategizing to make sure that, one way or another, you can have a gorgeous photo shoot.
Have a Backup Plan
If the rain is light, we might be able to just continue shooting the way we otherwise would. But it’s always helpful to have a backup plan in case the rain ends up being too heavy to work with.
This doesn’t necessarily have to be a big change of plans. It could just be that if we’re planning to shoot at a particular park, our backup plan is to head to the park’s gazebo and take some unique shots there. My Mercer Island studio is always an option as well. Or if you have your heart set on a particular outdoor location, the backup plan might just be to reschedule.
Bring an Aesthetic Umbrella
Sometimes a nice rain can be gorgeous in your maternity photos, and an umbrella can make a fantastic prop in those cases. If there’s a chance of rain, consider bringing an umbrella that matches the aesthetic look of your session, or one that has a neutral look like a classy black umbrella or a cute clear one.
Plan Your Wardrobe Accordingly
When it comes to maternity gowns, there are some colors and fabrics that just may not be good options when it’s raining, so if your top choices aren’t rain-friendly, you might have to have some backup options. At the same time, the rain might make certain other gowns more appealing to you - some of my clients love the look of a gauzy dress, wet from the rain, clinging to the curves of their beautiful belly.
Planning Your Beautiful Maternity Photo Shoot Under Any Skies
As a photographer who takes outdoor portraits all year round in Seattle, I can tell you with confidence that I’m a pro at dealing with rain on a photo shoot day. Rest assured that I’ll be able to guide you through any options we have if it does rain on your special day.
To start making plans for the maternity photos of your dreams, contact Jaimié Birtel Photography and let’s chat!
