- +44 7590 570658
- david@burnt.media
- /davidburnphotography
Gloucestershire Wedding Photographer
In the UK, obsessing over the weather is practically a national pastime. Going for a hike? Planning a BBQ? Playing football? We’re always hoping for sunshine. But when you’re planning the biggest day of your life, the stakes can feel so much higher.
My wife and I knew that feeling all too well. Our wedding plans relied on the outdoor space at our venue, and with the number of people we invited, it wouldn’t have felt comfortable indoors. We were lucky—the weather was lovely—but the stress of constantly checking the forecast in the weeks before was something we really could’ve done without.
Now that I’m on the other side of the camera, I’ve seen weddings in every weather condition, and I’m here to reassure you: it honestly doesn’t matter. Your wedding is about celebrating your love with the people you care about most. Guests will have fun, rain or shine. And—I’ll whisper this because it sounds counterintuitive—a soft, drizzly day can actually make for some of the best photos.
Sure, we all love a bit of sun. It lifts the mood and, if the timing’s right, it can give us those golden-hour shots every photographer dreams of. But here’s the secret: bright sun can be really tricky. Harsh lighting can wash out details, create strong shadows, and make everyone feel a bit too warm in their fancy outfits!
Overcast or drizzly days, on the other hand, give you beautiful soft light and really bring out the richness in colours. Honestly, I’m often quietly thankful when I arrive at a wedding to find a grey sky.
And when it really rains? It just adds to the story of the day. At one wedding last summer, the weather kept switching between sun and showers. Guests rallied to set up a couple more gazebos and kept an eye on pooling water—it actually brought everyone closer together and made for some great memories.
If it looks like rain might be on the cards, a little preparation goes a long way:
Buy some clear umbrellas. They let light through (which helps your photos) and they look great too—plus they become part of the story.
Have a few towels on hand. Perfect for drying shoes, wiping down chairs, or tackling surprise puddles.
Ask your venue about indoor backup options. It’s useful to know in advance where group shots or couple portraits can happen if needed.
Stay flexible. Some of the best shots happen in quick weather windows. A break in the rain might give us ten perfect minutes—so let’s grab them!
One couple, Stacy and Craig, absolutely nailed it by wearing Crocs for their reception. Honestly, I can’t think of a better choice for a rainy wedding!
If the forecast isn’t looking great, I’ll aim to arrive a bit early and scout out new options for photos. If the original plan involved trekking into a field, we’ll adjust. I’ll always find the best available light and locations—and if needed, I can focus tightly on just the two of you and blur everything else away.
I pride myself on staying calm and adaptable, which helps the people around me stay relaxed too. At one wedding, the mother of the bride was visibly disappointed by the grey, drizzly start. I gently reassured her that the light was actually working in our favour. Later in the day, I showed her a few photos on the back of the camera, and she lit up—she could see the colours popping just as I’d promised. After that, she relaxed and enjoyed the rest of the day.
Whatever the weather throws your way, it won’t take away from what the day is really about. There’s a saying I love: “Worrying is like a rocking chair—it gives you something to do but gets you nowhere.” That’s never more true than when it comes to the weather.
So if it rains? Embrace it. Laugh about it. Enjoy it. Because you’ll be surrounded by the people you love, celebrating the start of your marriage—and that’s what truly matters.
And who knows? That torrential downpour might just become one of your favourite memories.
If you’re interested in booking me for your big day, a family shoot or have any other questions, I’d love to hear from you.
