Rain during a PNW family photo session can be stressful
You've planned every last detail of the photo session hoping for dry weather. Then you check the weather app on your phone the day before and lo and behold - there is rain predicted during the hours of your scheduled family photo session. That's the PNW (Pacific Northwest) for you. I tell a lot of my families not to fear the rain because if anything, it adds a layer of normalcy to how life is in this part of the world. Still, as your Everett WA family photographer, preparation is super important to me. I want to share with you the things I keep in mind to prepare for rain during a photo session.
Schedule a back-up date for weather
During the spring, fall and winter, I make sure that I schedule a back-up date for all outdoor photo session. I also ask families to keep an hour free before or after the time slot. If the family has reservations about doing their photos in the rain, having another date in mind can give everyone some peace of mind. A family that feels heard with their concerns regardless of how small the raindrops are, will come back to you time after time. If the back-up date also shows rain, then we pick a new date or see if the shoot date has any wiggle room for the dry spells that are likely to occur.
check-in with the family on the day of their session
A check-in with the family on the day of the session is a great idea when the weather seems like it could turn to rain. As a family photographer, I check-in as early in the day as possible to share what I think about the weather that day and what our next steps can be. If it looks like it's going to rain during the time slot, I ask how much flexibility they have in the day. I also ask if they are open to doing the session with umbrellas or throwing a Hail Mary assuming it won't rain at all. Most families appreciate this proactive communication because it takes a lot of the mental load off them. Have solutions ready so decisions are easy to make.
Keep umbrellas in your car
If your families decide to go ahead with the photoshoot during the rain, let them know you have umbrellas ready to go. I suggest purchasing 5 clear umbrellas and keeping them in your car or remember to carry them with you on the day of a rainy family photoshoot.
Ask families to dress in water-proof layers
Dressing in water-proof clothing and appropriate footwear is another way to prepare for a rainy day family photoshoot in the PNW. Almost everybody in know in Western WA has a waterproof rain shell. They aren't the first stylistic choice for family photos but if you want to embrace realness, they look perfect as an outfit choice. Fleece is also a great idea because it is somewhat water-resistant and stands up well in a slight drizzle. If it's going to rain a lot, you can combine fleece with an umbrella.
Embrace the unpredictability and have fun with it
One thing I love the most about nature is how unpredictable it is. It makes my job as a family photographer harder but I know the more I have fun with it, the more enjoyable it seems. Much before our session, I try to posit doing the session regardless if it rains or not (assuming nobody is recovering from illness or worried about catching anything). The rain in the Everett WA area is usually a mild drizzle that comes in waves. I've never had a problem with the weather (except in the case of snow which was one time). This itself speaks multitudes and shows that we usually have nothing to worry about.
bring towels and back-up socks, clothes for kids
What's a rainy family photo session here in Everett WA area without a little splashing? If there is rain during the session, I will suggest bringing towels and back-up socks or clothes if parents do want to encourage some play in muddy puddles. It's totally up to the family but should they decide to play, I recommend drying everyone off to keep away any chills or discomfort during the drive back home.
change to an in-home session
I've written many a post about how any space works great for a family photo session at home. When it comes to rainy weather, you can definitely switch your location to having it be indoors.
ABOUT YOUR everett wa family PHOTOGRAPHER
EGD Photography is located outside Seattle, WA in Everett, WA. Edlyn G D'Souza is the lady behind Everett-based lifestyle family, maternity, newborn, senior photography business. Edlyn works with families in Seattle, Everett, Bothell, Mukilteo, Lynnwood, Mill Creek and most surrounding areas in Western Washington. She brings a calm and curious nature to every photo session.
