Every couple planning a destination pre-wedding session in Prague has one anxiety above all others — what happens if it rains? The standard industry response of: 'we’ll reschedule' is not possible when you are flying in from Hong Kong or Singapore and have only one day to get it right. For couples who choose my team, I can honestly say, 'no problem, if it rains or snows, it is an opportunity to create artworks that you will be proud of. We have never failed in creating stunning images such as the one above. While most photographers put their cameras away when the conditions are difficult, I see opportunities to create.
The torrential rains were forecasted to increase throughout the evening. With the rain starting afer their ceremony, we did not have a proper portrait session. When I explained to them my idea, they smiled and were game. The humidity had already created sauna-like conditions.
After a few quick shots, I showed them the back of the screen. They wanted more. More importantly they enjoyed the moment.
What would for most be a disaster instead turned into the highlight of their wedding day.
It remains one of my favorite images captured from their Cesky Krumlov Castle wedding over 10 years ago.
Justine and Robinson had only one day for their pre-wedding, October 16. We began at 6:00 AM in the pouring rain. Within the hour, the sky lightened and the rain stopped. Instead of waiting it out, they embraced it.
What started out as a near disater turned into a collection of beautiful pre-wedding photos that captured Prague from the wet, windy cobblestones of the Charles Bridge to the rich, vibrant Autumn hues of the Vrtba Garden.
While some couples fear the rain, others — such as Brittnie and Andres (not pictured) embrace it. They traveled from Texas for their gothic night time anniversary session atop the iconic Charles Bridge, clad in dramatic balck to embrace the city’s brooding elegance. Andres, a professional photographer himself, knowing exactly the type of images they were chasing. On the morning of, a relentless downpour that could have dampened plans, instead elevated them. lighting to carve their silhouettes from the darkness, the rain became a co-conspirator — glistening on cobblestones, veiling the air in mist, and infusing every frame with raw, cinematic drama.
This gothic anniversary session on Charles Bridge stands as inspiration for couples seeking something truly their own — where Prague’s timeless atmosphere meets unscripted, unplanned magic.
Photographer’s Insight
The key to creating images such as these is having supplementary lighting, fast lenses and a photographer who can work quickly. The first question a client should ask their photographer is: does he/she work alone or with an assistant? Having a dedicated lighting assistant is invaluable — especially for couples who are planning a pre-wedding session. This is why couples should never fear a rainy forecast.
For the following collections: Cinematic Masterpiece and The Elegancia, a lighting assistant is part of the package.