You’ve all heard the song “Dancing in the Rain.”  Well what about a photo session in the rain??  Most of us probably shy away from a session in the rain.  We reschedule or pray the weather clears up right as we are about to go on a shoot.  But Jessica of One July Photography embraced the rain and gave this senior a photo shoot like no other!

Check out what Jessica had to say about this shoot and be sure to check out Jessica’s other work here.  Thanks for sharing Jessica!!

What was your inspiration for the photo shoot?

This rain shoot was completely unplanned, but sometimes you have to go with the flow!  I tend to be a light seeker… I love capturing light filled images in the last moments of the day.  But mother nature had something else planned for us.  Just as the makeup artist was wrapping up her amazing work, it started to rain – and never stopped!  My client said “why not?!” and it ended up being such a great experience to branch out, grab a couple cute umbrellas, and shoot in the rain!

Where did this photo shoot take place?

Lisle, IL at the Morton Arboretum

Did you collaborate with this senior to come up with the clothing and/or concept for this shoot?

This senior had awesome style all her own. I sent some inspiration boards on Pinterest and she took it from there. I just grabbed the clear umbrella at Target earlier that day as a precaution in case it rained. 

What camera, lens and equipment were used for this shoot?

Nikon D700, shot entirely with the 50mmD lens. 

What time of day were these taken?

90 minutes before sunset… it ended up being really dark with all of the cloud cover.  Fortunately, the D700 can rock a high ISO. 

Can you share any post-processing techniques used when editing this session?

I felt that the bold wardrobe choices (primarily black and white) as well as the “gloomy” day really lent themselves to a clean edit.  Sometimes keeping it simple is best!  I always work with a makeup artist with my senior gals, which makes editing a breeze.  Curves and a little soft light overlay action are my best friends. 

What is your favorite thing about this session?

This session was something completely new for me – I had never shot in the rain!  I loved how her care-free and fun loving personality really shown through.  And the umbrella gave her a little something different. 

What do you want this session to convey about this senior and about your senior photography style?

For me, senior photography is about capturing the unique beauty of young adults as they set out on their new paths.  If you let their personality show – regardless of the location or the weather – you are doing something right!  Their inner beauty will MAKE the picture. 

What is one tip you can share with other photographers regarding photographing seniors?

Make sure you talk to your girls (and guys!) throughout a session.  Not only does it allow you to connect… and connection is such an important part of a killer image… but it should also build their confidence that they are doing an amazing job in front of the camera.  I know few people who feel 100% secure on the other side of the lens.  A little confidence boost goes a long way.  I have so much fun with all of my clients!  

What is one tip you can share regarding photographing in the rain?

When you’re out driving around in your day-to-day keep your eyes open for interesting areas that provide overhead cover.  We utilized a drive-thru tunnel as well as an office entrance.  From a technical standpoint – I suggest pushing your shutter speed as high a the situation can allow — rain drops quickly!  You don’t want the movement of rain drops of your subject’s face to blur out her eyes, etc.  And – invest in a cute umbrella!  I keep mine in the trunk of my car for every shoot, just in case!