How We Handle the Weather and Your Photo Session | Maryland Lifestyle Photographer
There is a running joke that Maryland could have all 4 seasons in a week, but it is SO true. In one week, we could see rain, snow, extreme heat, windy days, and storms… as well as gorgeous blue sky sunny days. But, as a Maryland family photographer, the weather definitely has an impact on my family photos sessions. I’ve had to reschedule sessions and I’ve photographed lots of families in a variety of weather – like snow! But, figuring out how we handle the weather and your photo session is important so today, I wanted to share some of my policies (and what I’m monitoring) around your session!
I should be a meteorologist…
My husband jokes that I should be a meteorologist because I obsessively check weather before sessions. As a mom and a photographer, I like to know what to expect and have a back-up plan just in case. My families shouldn’t be stressed out worrying about what happens to their session if we get hit with a massive storm. In the end, at least 90% of the time, it all works out anyway. But, I want you to know that I’m worrying about it for you – and monitoring it so much, I should probably start giving weather reports on the nightly news. 9 out of 10 times everything works out anyways.
How We Handle Weather Situations
Now, here is how I handle weather situations. A few days prior to the session, I check in to see how things are going and if you need any assistance with styling outfits for your session. At this point, we’ll also discuss the weather forecast and I’ll share what (if anything) I am monitoring before your session.
Two days prior to your family photos, I’ll check-in again and let you know by what date a decision is made. Sometimes that plan is to decide the evening before or morning of your session because things change quickly. Here, we’ll also decide on a rescheduling date if we need to!
Weather Rescheduling Policies
One thing I always reschedule for is a thunderstorm warning. I never want my clients and their families in danger. If there’s going to be high winds, we’ll also reschedule. I don’t want branches falling on anyone – and no one wants to look their best in high winds, either! If we have some wind, I recommend pinning your hair back or up and adding a TON of hairspray! Now, the temperature is a tricky one… if it’s going to be colder out, I still try to keep sessions on. I recommend layers and lots of patience. For the record, I normally do not do outdoor photography sessions after daylight savings time in the fall for this reason! No one wants to be cold during their family photos. And, when it’s warm out – super warm, that is – I recommend a lifestyle session. Everyone can stay nice and cool in the AC and get a break from the heat. We can still take some photos outside if that’s something your family wants.
I hope that this helps you feel more comfortable about planning your family’s photo session outdoors. As your Maryland family photographer, I’m here to help make this process stress-free and enjoyable so you can have the session of your dreams!
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Christina did an amazing job with our family photos. From the first time we spoke--she was incredibly thoughtful, organized and detail oriented to ensure the session would be a success.. – Katie A.
