Embracing the Rain: How to Make Outdoor Photoshoots Work

When rain is forecasted, many photographers see it as a signal to reschedule their sessions. They might consider booking a studio or activating a backup plan. However, this can sometimes be a missed opportunity. Through numerous outdoor shoots in rainy conditions, I’ve discovered that inclement weather can often lead to stunning photographs. Not in spite of the rain, but because of it.

This article is not just another piece encouraging photographers to embrace the elements. Instead, it serves as a practical guide on when to shoot in the rain, when to avoid it, what to bring, and what styles of photography work best in wet conditions. My insights come from experiences at various locations, including the Amper River, Mammendorfer See, the Lechauen in Augsburg, and areas in Munich.

The Impact of Rain on Photography

Before diving into the specifics of when to shoot in the rain, it's important to understand how rain can enhance your images. Rain influences four key aspects of photography, each of which can be advantageous:

Soft Light. Overcast skies diffuse sunlight, creating gentle, flattering light without harsh shadows. This effect, typically achieved with a softbox in a studio, is available outdoors for free under cloudy conditions. In light rain, the effect is even softer than mere cloud cover.

Saturated Colors. Wet surfaces reflect light more uniformly than dry ones. This means greens appear greener, wood looks richer, and stone takes on a deeper hue. The color intensity captured in rainy conditions is often unattainable on sunny days, regardless of post-processing.

Reflections. Puddles, wet paths, damp rooftops, and droplets on leaves create small light reflections that add depth and dimension to photos. Many creative concepts thrive on this characteristic.

Clear Mood. Sunny outdoor shots often convey a similar tone—"beautiful day, beautiful woman." Rainy images, however, have character and tell a story, making them more compelling than typical lifestyle magazine photos. If your concept aligns with this narrative, it can be a significant advantage.

Three Types of Rain

It’s crucial to distinguish between different types of rain, as they can dramatically affect your shoot. Here are three categories I consider:

Category 1 — Drizzle or Light Spray. The droplets are so small they’re nearly invisible. You may get damp, but not soaked. This is the ideal shooting condition, with soft light and reflective surfaces, allowing for minimal concern about hair and makeup.

Category 2 — Light to Moderate Rain. This steady rain is audible and will leave you wet. Here, a clear concept is necessary—incorporating an umbrella, utilizing backlighting effects, or finding covered spots to anchor the shoot.

Category 3 — Heavy Rain or Storms. Unless you’re intentionally shooting a storm-themed concept, this category is not feasible. You’ll end up soaked, makeup will run, outfits will be ruined, and technical difficulties will arise. Rescheduling is the only option.

In practice, Category 1 accounts for about three-quarters of my rainy shoots. Category 2 occurs occasionally but requires thorough preparation. Category 3 is a definite no-go.

Conditions for Successful Rain Shoots

There are four specific conditions under which I opt to shoot outdoors in the rain rather than moving to a studio:

1. The Concept Fits Rainy Weather. If your vision revolves around warm summer light and a bright atmosphere, rain is not suitable. However, if your idea leans towards the melancholic, contemplative, or cinematic, rain can enhance the mood.

2. We Have a Covered Location. A café terrace with an awning, a pavilion in a park, a doorway, or a bridge can serve as a retreat. A place to change, dry off, and touch up makeup is essential; without it, even light drizzle can become exhausting.

3. Outfits Are Rain-Compatible. Light summer dresses and lingerie are not ideal for wet conditions. Instead, opt for darker materials, dense fabrics, or materials that look interesting when wet (like leather or dark linen). Trench coats are a classic choice, along with oversized sweaters or leather jackets.

4. You’re Comfortable in the Rain. Some people love the rain, while others despise it. This difference is evident in the photos. If you express discomfort with rainy weather during our pre-shoot discussion, I won’t proceed with a rain shoot.

Effective Photography Styles in the Rain

Provided the four conditions are met, three photography styles particularly shine in rainy weather:

Cinematic Portraits. These images evoke a filmic quality with narrative depth. Imagine walking through a city alley with an umbrella partially closed, your trench coat flowing, and a puddle reflecting a street lamp. This style works beautifully in locations like Augsburg's Lechviertel or Munich's Schwabinger courtyards.

Romantic-Contemplative Nature. Walking through a meadow, a floodplain, or a park while fine rain falls creates a serene, meditative atmosphere. This style thrives in natural settings like the Amper or Lechauen, where soft light meets lush greenery.

Editorial Style with Fashion Focus. If showcasing an outfit that benefits from rain—such as leather or heavy fabrics—this style can take on an editorial character. We’ll focus on deliberate compositions, perhaps featuring urban architecture.

Styles to Avoid in Rain

Honesty is key. Here are three styles I typically avoid in rainy conditions:

Classic Boudoir and Summer Lingerie. Boudoir photography relies on warmth and a protected environment. Rainy boudoir shoots can create a confusing narrative rather than an intriguing one.

Traditional Maternity Shoots. These images often convey warmth and anticipation, which rain does not support. While a melancholic black-and-white concept could work, it’s not the standard approach.

Summer Lifestyle and Golden Hour Shots. If you envision light, summery images, rain will not contribute positively. We should reschedule instead.

Essentials for Rain Shoots

Here’s a practical checklist for those planning an outdoor shoot in the rain:

• A classic trench coat or dark wool coat that complements your concept.
• An umbrella—preferably a classic, dark-colored stick umbrella, not a trekking one with logos.
• Comfortable shoes with traction, such as ankle boots, instead of high heels.
• Layered clothing for adaptability.
• A microfiber cloth to dry your face and glasses.
• Waterproof mascara, a matte lipstick, and makeup for touch-ups.

What I bring includes an extra microfiber cloth for my camera, a rain cover for my gear, several waterproof bags for outfit changes, and a thermos of tea. It may seem excessive, but it’s standard practice in the field.

A Personal Experience

Last April, I had a portrait shoot scheduled in Olching. Two hours before the appointment, the weather forecast predicted a 60% chance of light rain. My client, in her early 30s and new to being photographed, preferred an outdoor setting for its natural feel.

I called her and asked, "How do you feel about shooting in the rain?" After a brief pause, she replied, "I think rain is okay." This was the right response—not an enthusiastic, "Sure, that’s fine," which often means the opposite, nor a flat refusal. We headed to the Amper River, where the drizzle was light, and she wore a trench coat layered over a dark sweater while I protected my camera under a rain cape.

The resulting images are among the most frequently showcased in her gallery—not because they are technically superior to her sunny photos, but because they tell a story that a bright day simply cannot convey.

Season and Timing for Rain Shoots

In Bavaria, rain shoots are most effective during two seasons:

Spring (March to May). Spring rain is typically light, the temperatures are pleasant, and nature is vibrant. The Lechauen and Amperauen are particularly beautiful during this time.

Autumn (October to November). Autumn rain, especially when paired with falling leaves, creates a unique atmosphere. It’s a bit cooler than spring, so layering is key.

Summer storms (June to August) often fall into Category 3 and should be postponed. Winter rain below 5 degrees is challenging due to discomfort and condensation issues with equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a rain photoshoot worth it?

Yes, often with light drizzle or light rain. The soft light, saturated colors, reflections, and distinctive mood can create compelling images. Ensure your concept aligns with rainy weather, a covered location is available, your outfits are suitable, and you are comfortable in the rain. We will reschedule for heavy rain or thunderstorms.

What should I wear for a rain photoshoot?

A classic trench coat or dark wool coat paired with dense fabrics (like leather or heavy linen) works best. Choose ankle boots with good traction instead of high heels, and carry a classic dark umbrella—avoid trekking umbrellas with logos. Dark colors perform better since light fabrics can become transparent when wet.

How can I protect my makeup in the rain?

Use waterproof mascara, matte lipstick (avoid gloss as droplets can make it visible), and skip dewy foundations to prevent smearing. A microfiber cloth is useful for dabbing rather than rubbing. Having a covered retreat is essential for makeup touch-ups every 30-45 minutes. I do not conduct rain shoots for boudoir or intimate styles.

Can I do a maternity shoot in the rain?

Generally, no. Maternity images convey warmth and anticipation, which rain does not support. While there are exceptions for melancholic black-and-white concepts, this is more of a specialized approach than the norm. It’s better to schedule maternity shoots for dry, overcast days.

How do puddles and wet paths affect images?

They are significant, as they introduce reflections and add depth to the image. A puddle reflecting a street lamp can transform a simple city portrait into a cinematic shot. We actively seek out puddles as they are crucial elements in rain photography.

Conclusion

Rain shoots are not a standard solution, but when your concept aligns with rainy weather—be it contemplative, cinematic, or editorial—and conditions permit (like light drizzle or rain without storms), you can capture images that are simply unattainable in a studio or on sunny days.

If rain is forecasted during your planned shoot window, reach out to discuss options—whether to reschedule, switch to a studio, or embrace the rain intentionally. For more insights on seasonal planning, refer to my guide on the best times for photoshoots in Munich.