Welcome back to our series on getting the best photos from your shoot! Today, we’re talking about something that’s often overlooked but plays a huge role in your final images: the weather.
Whether you’re planning family photos on Tybee Island or a wedding in Savannah, the weather can completely transform the mood, lighting, and overall feel of your images. By understanding how light changes in different conditions, you can make the most of your session and embrace whatever the day brings.
I typically break weather into four main types: clear, cloudy, overcast, and rainy. Let’s dive into how each one affects your photos.
Clear Skies
A bright, sunny day seems ideal, right? Yes and no. While clear skies offer vibrant colors, they also bring strong, direct sunlight—especially midday—which creates harsh shadows and high contrast. However, during golden hour, that same sunlight softens into a warm, flattering glow, giving your photos a dreamy, timeless feel. Timing is everything when shooting in clear conditions!
Cloudy Skies
A little cloud cover can actually be a good thing. Clouds act as natural diffusers, softening shadows and evening out the light. This results in flattering, balanced lighting, making it easier to capture smooth skin tones and natural colors. Cloudy days also remove the rush of chasing the perfect golden hour light, giving more flexibility for a relaxed, beautiful session.
Overcast Days
When the sky is fully covered, the entire scene is bathed in soft, even light. This is perfect for close-up portraits, as it eliminates harsh shadows and creates a naturally smooth look. While overcast days don’t bring the same warmth or vibrancy as sunny skies, they lend themselves to a calm, intimate atmosphere, ideal for storytelling-style images.
Rainy Days
Rain might sound like a deal-breaker, but it can actually create some of the most stunning and unique photos. Reflections in puddles, moody skies, and raindrops in the air can add a cinematic, romantic feel. If you're up for embracing the moment (or bringing a stylish umbrella), a rainy-day shoot can result in images that stand out in the best way. The key is preparation—ensuring everyone stays comfortable while capturing the magic.
Embrace the Weather
Every type of weather brings its own beauty. Rather than worrying about a “perfect” day, trust the process and lean into the unique qualities of the conditions. No matter what the sky looks like, there’s always a way to create something incredible.
Next up in Part 3: Choosing the perfect location for your session. Stay tuned!