As a seasoned Chicago wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed firsthand how unpredictable the city’s weather can be, especially on your big day. While rain might not be part of your dream wedding, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. In fact, some of the most stunning wedding photos I’ve captured were on rainy wedding days in Chicago.

With a bit of planning and a positive mindset, rain can be an unexpected blessing, adding a unique and romantic ambiance to your wedding memories.

Read more: DO’s and DON’Ts of wedding planning

How to Manage Photography the Rainy Wedding Days in Chicago?

1. Embrace the Rain

First and foremost, embrace the rain! Rainy days can bring a moody, atmospheric quality to your photos that sunny days simply can’t match.

The soft, diffused light that comes with overcast skies is flattering, creating a natural and even glow.

For example, at a recent wedding, the rain enhanced the charm of the historic setting. The wet pavements reflected the lights, creating a magical effect that wouldn’t have been possible on a dry day.

Read more: LIGHT in photography!

2. Choose Iconic Indoor Locations

Chicago is filled with stunning indoor venues that can serve as perfect backdrops for rainy-day photos. The Chicago Union Station, Chicago Cultural Center, and Salvage One are three excellent examples.

The Union Station and Cultural Center’s grand architecture and exquisite details provide an elegant setting, while Salvage One offers a more eclectic, vintage atmosphere.

I remember a wedding at Salvage One where the rain outside only heightened the cozy, intimate vibe of the indoor setting, allowing us to capture some truly memorable moments.

Read more: Wedding at Salvage One, A Unique Experience

3. Make Use of Covered Outdoor Spaces

Rain doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. Chicago has numerous locations with covered outdoor spaces where you can still capture the city’s essence without getting drenched.

The Garfield Park Conservatory offers lush greenery and shelter, making it a beautiful spot for rainy-day photos.

4. Bring the Right Accessories in Rainy Wedding Days in Chicago

Umbrellas are a must on a rainy wedding day, but don’t think of them as a hindrance. Stylish, clear umbrellas can add a chic touch to your photos while keeping you dry.

I once photographed a couple at the Chicago Opera House under a pair of transparent umbrellas. The rain softly blurred the background, making the couple the clear focal point, and the umbrellas added a whimsical, romantic element to the shots. Don’t forget to let them have fun with it 🙂

5. Trust Your Photographer

Finally, trust your photographer’s experience and creativity. A professional wedding photographer in Chicago knows how to work with the weather to create beautiful, memorable images.

With the right attitude and preparation, rainy wedding days in Chicago can result in some of the most stunning and unique photos of your special day.

In the end, the rain becomes part of your story—a story beautifully told through your wedding photos. Read this very last sentence again and take it easy 🙂

Read more: How to Find the right Wedding Photographer?