In Wales, rain is never far from anyone’s mind, whatever month you’re getting married. The good news is that a rainy wedding day can still give you beautiful photos. Overcast skies give soft, even light that’s far kinder to skin than harsh midday sun.
Have a wet weather plan with your venue
Ask your venue where the ceremony, drinks and group photos would go if it rains. Covered terraces, orangeries, barns, porches and big windows all make lovely spots, and most venues have a plan they’ve used many times before.
Pack the right umbrellas
Clear umbrellas let the light through to your faces and look great in photos. A few white or neutral ones for the wedding party are a lovely touch, and much nicer than a stack of bright golf umbrellas.
Embrace it for a few minutes
If you’re up for it, five minutes outside under an umbrella can give the most atmospheric photos of the day. Sturdy shoes or wellies under the dress, a towel nearby, and then back inside to warm up.
Use the light indoors
Windows and doorways are perfect for portraits. Soft light from a big window is just as flattering as golden hour. I arrive early at every wedding to find the best places, so I’ll already have a few indoor spots in mind before the rain arrives.
Group shots in the rain
Group photos are the trickiest part of a wet day. A covered area, a large hallway or a staircase works well, and a short list helps too. See my group shot list tips.
Watch the forecast, then let it go
Check the forecast in the days before and talk to me if it looks wet, so we can make a plan together. On the day, I’ll watch for gaps in the clouds. Showers often pass, and a dry ten minutes is plenty for some portraits outside.
Questions couples ask
Is rain on your wedding day good luck?
Lots of traditions say so. One saying goes that a wet knot is harder to untie, so a rainy wedding day means a marriage that lasts.
Do rainy wedding photos look dark?
Not at all. Overcast light is soft and even, and modern cameras handle low light well. Portraits by a window can be some of the most beautiful of the day.
Do we have to go outside if it rains?
Only if you want to. We can do as much or as little outside as you’re comfortable with.
