As a natural light photographer, watching the weather forecast has somewhat of a side hobby for me. Here in the Bay Area we are lucky enough to have sunshine and relatively warm temperatures year round. However, the weather is not always clear and warm during photo sessions, and actually – that’s OK! I receive many frantic messages leading up to sessions regarding unpredictable weather and if we should reschedule our session for a sunnier day. And my answer is almost always – NOPE!
Of course if we are having torrential down pours, we will have to reschedule, but if its cloudy, foggy, windy or even threatening rain I actually love the effects these weather phenomenons create in my client’s sessions. Let me explain….
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Clouds are actually a photographers best friend! They filter the light, creating a softness that removes harsh highlights in photographs. And not only that, clouds create beautiful backgrounds! They add depth, contrast, and interest in an otherwise empty space.
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Wind creates movement. Of course, gale force winds can be cold and distracting but normal wind in a session makes little girls’ hair dance, helps create dimension in garments, and movement in flowy dresses.
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Rain clouds create drama! Clouds may be a photographer’s best friend but stormy skies take things to the next level. Stormy skies turn a blank canvas into a work of art.
So rest assured, as your photographer, I am always striving to make your session and your photographs beautiful. I promise to watch the weather like a hawk leading up to our session. I will ensure that you and your family are prepared for whatever weather the Bay Area throws at us and that your photos will turn out AH-MAZING!
Bottom line: windy, chilly, rainy weather can create dramatic, magical photographs when we arrive prepared for it. The most important thing to remember is to dress according to the weather. What does this mean for my clients? DRESS WARM! Cold kids are not happy kids. And the photographs will reflect this. Cold and windy forecast calls for thick, textured sweaters, wraps, and extra layers. Wrapping up in colorful, textured blankets is another great option. When kids are dressed warmly, they will play, explore and have a blast in the stormiest of conditions!