If you're like some couples, you've been checking and refreshing the long range weather forecast ever since your date popped up. You may be disappointed to see rain on the horizon, but with a little pre planning and a good attitude, the rain certainly won't spoil the fun.

As a Prince Edward Island wedding photographer it is inevitable that I will experience a rainy wedding day at some point. I've photographed many before, and will likely photograph many in the future. However, there's a few things to think about that will make your day go much smoother if rain is on the way.

Of course, umbrellas! Umbrellas are an absolute must if the weather is looking wet. I've photographed many couples under the shelter of umbrellas and they help to keep hair and makeup in tact, and outfits clean and dry. You may want to consider purchasing enough for you and your wedding party so that in the event of light rain, everyone is still able to venture outside for photos. Make sure to keep your receipt so that you return them if you didn't end up using them.

In many instances I'll photograph the bride and groom under the cover of their umbrella, and then have them drop it quickly for a few photos. This gives a mix of both views, and is quick enough to make sure no one gets too wet. Besides the wet ground, you may never know it was raining.

Have a back up plan in place for your photos and an alternate location if your ceremony is outdoors. Being prepared for weather can help ease a lot of stress on your wedding day. By having a back up plan in case of rain, you don't have to scramble on the day of and take up time. I've photographed under the cover of verandas, in public buildings, and under heavy foliage. I've even rode along for a long, limo dance party. A professional photographer is trained to handle unexpected circumstances and work in difficult situations, so hiring one will be a big help when it comes to a rainy wedding day.

Beforehand, consult with your hairstylist and makeup artist for tips on keeping yourself looking picture perfect despite rain and humidity. A professional will know different techniques to make sure your hair & makeup don't change throughout the day. I asked the talented Holly Ryder from Priti Makeup Artistry to give some tips for keeping your makeup in line on a rainy day. Holly says:

Primer! It will help everything stay in place
Waterproof eyeliner and mascara
Choosing creamy products vs powders, ex. a cream blush & liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer instead of powder alternatives
Good quality lipstick, it has better staying power than a gloss!

Thanks, Holly!

Be flexible with your timing. If it is raining, chances are there will be a window of time at some point in the day where it stops completely, or it is only spitting/misting. Being able to do some photos before or after you originally planned can be a way to avoid the rainy parts of your day. If the weather is looking sour, consider options like a first look before your ceremony, or some photos after dinner. This gives you more than one opportunity for photos, and makes sure you don't just rely on one specific time.

However, even on the worst of days you never know when the clouds may break and the sun starts to peak through!

The most important thing - keep up a positive attitude. Your wedding day is what you make it. You can't control the weather, but you can control how you handle it. Above all, it's important to not let the rain spoil your day. Your shoes may get a little wet, you may not be able to get to locations you planned for, and you may need to adjust your timeline, but after all it's important to remember to have fun. So, take a breather and keep on smiling!

And if all else fails.....have a drink.

Been caught on a rainy wedding day? What did you do to keep dry and have fun? Leave me a comment!

Today, let's talk about engagement sessions! It's that time of year where many wedding couples are starting to think about their engagement sessions before their weddings this Summer and Fall. I love these sessions, and have photographed so many couples across PEI in many different locations. Here I wanted to share 5 little tips so you can make the most of your own photo shoot.

The main reason I include a complimentary engagement session with every full day wedding collection is because it allows us to get to know each other and for the couple to become comfortable in front of the camera. A lot of my clients will show up feeling a little nervous and unsure what to expect at first, and I totally get that. For many, this is the first time they're being photographed by a professional apart from their high school or post secondary grad photos! They may be scared I'll ask them to do a bunch of crazy things, stand in awkward positions the whole time, or be generally uncomfortable. They quickly realize that's not the way it goes. Being photographed is much easier than expected, and quite enjoyable! The truth is, as a photographer my job is about 50% photography, and 50% knowing how to work with people.

You can take incredible photos but if you don't know how to make people feel comfortable, you're not going to achieve the look both you and your clients want. An engagement session introduces you to your photographer with a 'practice run' of sorts, letting you see first hand how they work. I've had many people tell me (even the guys!) how easy and fun their engagement session was and that's what I strive for.

1. Before the shoot, I often let my clients choose the location so that we photograph somewhere unique and special to them. From baseball fields, to pumpkin patches, to beaches, and farms, I've been taken to many beautiful locations across PEI, all special in their own way. I recommend choosing a spot that has meaning to you such as a favorite spot to visit together, and old date location, or a family member's property.

2. I encourage clients to add special touches to their session including one of my favorite things.....dogs! Bringing along your dog can help add a fun and light hearted dynamic to your session. Even if your dog runs around and is only in a couple photos, you may enjoy the familiarity of having your four legged friend there with you. Plus, they're a special part of your life so why not have them in your photographs too?

3. In addition to pets, some other objects can be fun to bring along such as handmade signs, a cozy blanket, sports equipment, paint, or balloons. Feel free to bring what you like, or nothing at all. If you do, just make sure to keep it simple and easy to carry. Either way, the photos will be beautiful!

4. "So, what should I wear?" I get asked this question a lot. I always tell clients to simply wear what they know is going to make them feel comfortable and relaxed. I've had couples show up in everything from dresses and heels, to shorts and sandals - it all depends on what look you're going for, and where your session takes place. Consider bringing along a light sweater or different pieces of jewelry if you'd like a quick and easy outfit change. If you're having a hard time deciding, take a look through my Portrait section on my website for some examples of what others have worn.

5. Lastly, relax and have fun! No part of working with me or any photographer should be stressful. It's a great feeling to come away from a session with photos you're proud of, ones that you will print and hang on the wall for years. Feel free to think outside the box if you want to too. There are no rules, it's your hour to enjoy so have fun with it!

If you've had engagement photos taken before, what was your favorite part? Any tips you'd like to add? Share them in the comments!

Brady