The Family Session We Thought Would Be Rained Out

When a Grey Forecast Turned Into Magical Light

One of the trickiest parts of planning an outdoor session is the weather, especially when the forecast keeps changing. This shoot was scheduled for a late afternoon in March, and right up until the last minute we couldn’t tell whether we were going to get beautiful light or be completely rained out.

We’d already chosen a location that would give us some protection from the wind, then the forecast started predicting rain during the final hour of the shoot. We moved the start time forward, checked another weather app, crossed our fingers and decided to go ahead.

I always hate making that call when the forecast is so uncertain. Families put so much effort into getting ready, organising hair and makeup, changing sleep routines and getting everyone out the door, so the last thing I want is for them to arrive and be rained out.

And then we arrived and were greeted by the most magical light. After such a grey day and such an uncertain forecast, we somehow ended up with sunshine and the most beautiful conditions. We photographed the entire session without a single drop of rain.

Cloudy forecasts can make families nervous, but this session was the perfect reminder that the weather rarely behaves exactly as predicted. Sometimes the days that look the least promising end up giving us the most beautiful light.

This one definitely turned out to be a very happy weather surprise.

If you’re planning your own family photos and would love something relaxed, playful and centred around your family being yourselves, you can find out more about working with me as a Sydney family photographer here.