If rain threatens your outdoor photo session, there are three good options: move to a new date, switch to a studio session, or shoot in light rain or under cover nearby. Decide together with your photographer, based on the forecast and your kids' ages. Cancellation and rescheduling terms differ by photographer, so check the profile before you book, and message us if a booking goes wrong.
How to make the call
Weather forecasts for New York change quickly, so don't decide too early. In the days before an outdoor session:
- Watch the forecast for your date and time, not just the day as a whole. Rain at 3 p.m. doesn't matter for a sunrise session.
- Message your photographer if it looks uncertain, so you both know the options and can think about what suits your family.
- Make the decision together, usually the day before, so nobody is getting kids dressed for a session that won't happen.
If the weather changes on the morning itself, talk again before anyone leaves home.
Option 1: Move to a new date
This is the simplest option and often the best one, especially for:
- Fall foliage sessions, where the trees matter and a later date is still in the window.
- Spring blossom sessions, if the blossoms will still be out.
- Any session where the location is the point, like the Brooklyn Bridge or Central Park.
Look at the next available dates on the photographer's profile together. Keep in mind that seasonal windows are short: if a storm strips the leaves or the blossoms are over, a later date may not give you what you wanted. In that case, a studio may be the better choice.
Option 2: Switch to a studio
If you'd rather keep your date, or the season is ending, moving the session indoors is a reliable plan B. A studio is warm, dry and ready, and many studio photographers offer themed sets for every season.
You'd get a dry hour, often a choice of sets, and no weather to worry about. Some photographers work both outdoors and in a studio, so ask whether your photographer can switch, or look for a studio photographer with an open date.
A studio is especially worth it if:
- You have a baby or young toddler. Cold, wet weather is hard on little ones.
- You need photos by a deadline, for holiday cards or a family event.
- The family is in town only briefly and there's no backup date.
The outdoor family photos guide for NYC compares the two options honestly.
Option 3: Shoot in the rain or under cover
Light rain isn't always a reason to cancel. Overcast skies give soft, even light that flatters faces, and some families love the mood of a rainy-day photo.
Light rain can work with:
- Older kids and adults who don't mind getting a little wet.
- Clear umbrellas, which let the light through and look great in photos. Bring your own.
- Rain boots and raincoats in bright colors. Yellow and red look wonderful against grey streets and green trees.
- Puddle jumping. Some of the most joyful photos come from kids who've been told it's fine to splash.
Call it off for:
- Thunder or lightning. Never worth the risk.
- Strong wind. Umbrellas become dangerous and everyone is miserable.
- Heavy, cold rain with small children. Nobody looks happy, and they shouldn't have to.
Covered spots around NYC
If the rain is light or on and off, a covered spot nearby can save the session. Some options near popular locations:
- Bethesda Terrace Arcade, Central Park. The covered passage beneath the terrace has an ornate tiled ceiling and soft, even light. It can be busy and loud with musicians. More in the Central Park family photos guide.
- The Archway under the Manhattan Bridge, DUMBO. A large, partly covered space with a dramatic industrial look. See the Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO guide.
- Building overhangs and arcades on nearby streets, for a few quick frames while a shower passes.
Covered spots are popular when it rains, so they can be crowded. Rules for professional photography vary by location, and they change, so check the current rules for any spot you're considering. NYC Parks has guidance for city parks at nycgovparks.org.
What to bring on an uncertain day
- A clear umbrella for each adult, if you want rain photos.
- A change of clothes for kids, and a towel in the car or bag.
- Rain boots or shoes that can get wet.
- Layers. Rainy days are often colder than they look.
- Snacks and patience. Waiting out a shower under cover is easier with something to eat.
Quick answers
What happens if it rains on my outdoor photo session?
Talk to your photographer, usually the day before: a new date, a move indoors, or shooting in light rain or under cover. Terms differ by photographer, so check the profile.
Can you take good photos on a cloudy or rainy day?
Yes. Overcast light is soft and flattering, and light rain with umbrellas and rain boots can make fun, moody photos. Never shoot in thunder, lightning or strong wind.
Can we switch an outdoor session to a studio?
Often yes, with a photographer who offers both, or by booking a studio photographer on an open date.
Find your photographer
If you'd rather skip the weather entirely, browse family photographers with studio sessions, and compare real prices and open dates.