How to Dress for Any Weather During Your Outdoor Photo Session
Outdoor sessions are beautiful, but they can also be unpredictable. Whether we’re dealing with surprise rain, stubborn wind, or a sudden temperature swing, how you dress makes a big difference in how comfortable (and photogenic) you’ll feel.
Here’s how to dress smart for any type of weather without compromising your look.
☀️ Warm and Sunny
What works:
Light, breathable fabrics (think cotton, linen, or soft knits)
Neutral or pastel colors that won’t cause harsh reflections
Layers you can easily take off if it gets hot
Avoid:
Anything too clingy or shiny (hello sweat marks)
Bright white in direct sun, it can blow out highlights in photos
Sunglasses right before your session (they leave red marks on your nose)
Bonus tip:
Bring water and a towel or blotting cloth if you tend to get shiny in heat. A quick cool-off between shots keeps things fresh.
🌥️ Cloudy or Overcast
What works:
Rich earth tones or layered neutrals (cloudy light is super flattering)
Texture: denim, knits, corduroy, wool blends
Layered outfits (cardigan over a dress, jacket over a henley)
Avoid:
All-black or all-gray outfits, they can blend into a cloudy background
Super bright neon, it pops too hard against the soft light
Bonus tip:
Cloudy days give us beautiful, even lighting, so don’t be disappointed if the sun’s hiding. This is portrait magic weather.
🌬️ Windy
What works:
Clothes with some structure (avoid floaty, ultra-light fabrics)
Tighter hairstyles, headbands, or clips to control flyaways
Layers that won’t flap around in every frame
Avoid:
Long scarves or loose cardigans, they’ll end up midair
Hair completely down if it’s gusty
Bonus tip:
Wind adds movement. It’s not always a bad thing, just be ready for it and embrace the energy.
🌧️ Rainy or Wet Conditions
What works:
Waterproof boots that still look stylish (Chelsea boots, leather, or matte rain boots)
Layered outerwear: a good jacket over your planned outfit
Clear umbrellas, they photograph really well and don’t block faces
Avoid:
Suede shoes or heels with no traction
Thin fabrics that stick to the skin when damp
Bonus tip:
Don’t cancel just yet! Light rain can be beautiful in photos. And a backup location (covered porch, greenhouse, or studio) keeps the day flexible.
❄️ Cold Weather
What works:
Layers: thermal base + stylish outerwear
Knit hats, gloves, and scarves that coordinate with your color palette
Boots that keep your feet dry and warm
Avoid:
Looking too bundled, bulk doesn’t always photograph well
Bare legs or open shoes, even if you think you’ll “tough it out”, you’ll just be cold.
Bonus tip:
Hand warmers in your pockets help more than you think. Also, bring a blanket! You can wrap up between shots and even use it in the photos.
Final Thoughts
The key to dressing for the weather is staying comfortable and true to your style. If you’re warm, dry, and able to move, you’ll look confident, and confidence always photographs well.
If you’re not sure what to wear, I’m happy to help you plan outfits based on the forecast and location. Just reach out ahead of your shoot and we’ll build a look that works for both the light and the weather.