rain and snow makes some really unique photos

One of my most common FAQ is, "What do we do if it's raining the day of our session?" It's a completely natural concern. When you envision your family photos, the go-to image has golden sunshine, vibrant fall foliage, or a crisp spring day. However, I'm here to let you in on a little secret: a rainy day doesn't have to mean rescheduling. In fact, it can lead to some of the most joyful, and deeply memorable photographs.

My passion lies in capturing real life, as it truly unfolds, without forced poses or artificial smiles. My documentary approach means I'm there to observe and preserve the genuine connections, quirks, and everyday magic that make your family uniquely yours. By embracing whatever the skies bring, we open ourselves up to telling an even richer and still beautiful story of your family.

a Rainy Day Through a Documentary Lens

I actually find myself brimming with excitement when the forecast hints at rain. Here’s why a little drizzle can be a photographic gift:

The Soft, Dreamy Light: Overcast skies act like nature's largest softbox, providing the most incredibly diffused and flattering light imaginable. This eliminates harsh shadows, prevents uncomfortable squinting, and wraps your family in a beautifully even illumination that highlights every genuine expression and connection. The light on a rainy day often possesses an ethereal, almost painterly quality, creating images that are both intimate and timeless.
Vibrant Colors Pop: Have you ever noticed how the world seems to awaken and its colors intensify after a rain shower, or even during a light drizzle? The lush greens of the Hudson Valley landscape become richer, the blues of the sky (even when cloudy) take on a deeper hue, and most wonderfully, your children's bright, colorful rain jackets and cheerful wellies become brilliant, dynamic focal points. These vibrant pops of color against a softer backdrop create visually stunning and truly unique photographs.
Authenticity Unlocked: Rain encourages genuine interaction, often leading to spontaneous bursts of laughter, cozy snuggles, and a delightful sense of playful adventure. Children, in particular, are often less inhibited by the camera when they're fully absorbed in the joyful act of splashing, jumping, and exploring in the rain. These unscripted, unposed moments can make some really fun family photos.
A Rare Memory: How often do you truly embrace a rainy day with your family, actively leaning into the experience rather than letting it dampen your spirits? So often on a rainy day, there’s a schedule being interrupted, but we can totally embrace a little rain on your session day.

Ideas for a Rainy Day Session

My philosophy revolves around capturing your family’s unique dynamics in the most natural way possible. A rainy day doesn’t limit us; it inspires creativity and opens up a whole new world of possibilities for authentic, action-filled shots.

Rain Gear is Cute in Photos: This is your perfect excuse to go wild with adorable rain boots and fun, colorful rain jackets! Think bright yellows, bold stripes, playful polka dots, or even whimsical animal prints. These aren't just practical; they add incredible personality, character, and a fantastic pop of color to your photos. Encourage your kids to pick out their absolute favorite patterns and hues – the more vibrant and unique, the better! We'll capture them pulling on their boots, zipping up their jackets, and getting ready for their rainy day adventure.
Puddle-Jumping Perfection: There is simply nothing quite like the pure, unadulterated joy of jumping into a puddle. This is prime territory for incredible action shots! We'll capture the water flying, the delighted expressions, the tiny hands holding on for balance, and the sheer exhilaration of embracing the elements. These are the dynamic, full-of-life images that will bring a smile to your face for years to come, reminding you of that specific moment of unbridled childhood happiness. Imagine the spray, the laughter, the mud-splattered grins – these are priceless.
The Beauty of Movement and Interaction: Rain naturally encourages more dynamic movement and closer interaction. Running through a light drizzle, dancing under a shared umbrella, or simply walking hand-in-hand as raindrops fall – these activities create fluid, storytelling images. My lens will be focused on capturing the genuine interactions, the fleeting glances, the shared jokes, and the contagious laughter that come with embracing the playful, adventurous side of a rainy day.
Cozy Indoor Retreats: If the rain is truly coming down heavily, or if your family simply prefers to stay warm and dry, we can absolutely shift our focus indoors. Your home is where so many of your real-life moments unfold. We can capture cozy snuggles on the couch, reading a favorite book together, building a fort, a spontaneous dance party in the living room, baking cookies, or simply playing board games. These intimate, everyday moments are just as precious, if not more so, and tell a beautiful story of your family life. We can also explore local indoor spots like a charming library, a favorite cafe, or even a local greenhouse if that aligns with your family's interests.

Final thoughts.

I come prepared with creative ideas for utilizing the rain to our advantage, whether it's finding naturally sheltered spots that still offer great light, or simply diving headfirst into the fun of a rainy day adventure. Rescheduling as a Thoughtful Option: While I truly encourage embracing the rain for its unique photographic opportunities, I also understand that sometimes, the weather simply doesn't align with your specific vision or critical location needs. If your session is heavily reliant on a particular outdoor setting that would be compromised by heavy rain (e.g., specific blooming gardens in peak season, or panoramic views that disappear in dense fog), or if the weather conditions are genuinely extreme (torrential downpours with strong winds, lightning, or a severe storm advisory), then rescheduling is absolutely an option we can discuss. Your family's comfort and the integrity of your photographic vision are paramount. We will always find a date that works best for your family to create the images you've dreamed of.