There’s a saying in Scotland – if you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes. Here, Tie the Knot Scotland chats with photographers to find out how couples can embrace every season in one (wedding) day...
(Photo: Loraine Ross)
Dreaming of a Scottish wedding but worried about the weather? From a light mist to a dramatic downpour, a touch of rain is part of Scotland’s charm – and it doesn’t have to dampen your big day.
With smart planning and a few creative touches, you can turn a rainy forecast into unforgettable photographs, cosy castle receptions, and memories your guests will rave about.
Below, our Scotland-based wedding experts share insider tips on planning for rain on your wedding day and reveal the hidden perks of saying “I do” under those romantic Scottish skies.
Windy wedding photography tips
Let’s not beat about the bush: wind can cause havoc at a wedding, blowing off hats and whipping up hems. But it’s unlikely to ruin your photos – in fact, it might even make them better.
“Wind really gives dimension and movement to photos. It’s actually my favourite element because it adds a lot of movement and emotion to pictures,” explains Scottish wedding photographer Sam McGregor.
“The key is to embrace it – let your veil fly and your hair get tousled, and allow the wind to bring a real, authentic and cinematic feel to your images.
“If you lean into whatever the weather brings and trust your photographer to do their job, Scotland’s weather will help tell the unique story of your day.”
"The wind can transform a simple portrait into something ethereal, as it brings an incredible sense of movement. Just remember to secure your veil so it can lift with the wind, but not fly off completely," says Lauren Welsh. (Photo: Magic Moments Studio)
How to pose in the rain on your wedding day
Picture this: you’ve been planning your wedding day for the past 18 months, only to wake up to a morning of pouring rain. Typical!
It’s easy to panic at first – especially when you have visions of damp dresses, muddy feet and chilly guests – but it’s crucial to remember that this is the one thing you can’t control.
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So, the best thing to do is embrace whatever the skies above decide to do. Hey, it’s even thought that rain on a wedding day brings good luck.
“Rain can be so romantic – there’s something dramatic and cinematic about a couple cosying up together with moody skies behind them,” says Loraine Ross, a wedding photographer based in Edinburgh.
“I’ve even had some of my couples dancing in the rain, and popping a champagne bottle, which made for the dreamiest shots,” she adds.
“There is always beauty in the chaos. I’ll work with the weather, not against it – whether that means chasing the last light on a summer’s evening or getting soaked right alongside you on the wettest of days. My top tip is: don’t be afraid to get a little wet!”
"Rain can be so romantic and cinematic," says photographer Loraine Ross. "One of my film cameras often ends up with a lot of condensation on the lens when I'm photographing in the rain. I love to play into it creatively for atmospheric shots. Sometimes I leave it on the lens or partly clear it, but I just love how it 'blooms' the highlights." (Photo: Loraine Ross)
Are cloudy days good for wedding photos?
Okay, it might be dry but grey skies aren’t exactly what you pictured either, is it? Fret not! “This type of cloud will actually give you the most flattering soft light,” continues Loraine.
“It means no squinting and no harsh shadows, just dreamy skin tones and a little atmosphere.”
Hot and sunny wedding photography tips
What if (and we put great emphasis on ‘if’) Scotland has a heatwave? Just how do you tackle that type of weather on your wedding day?
Well, according to Dionne Jones at Morris-Jones Photography, a really hot day is often extremely challenging. Just as well we live in Scotland!
“Glorious sunshine can result in lots of people squinting at the light and feeling too hot to stand around for pictures. A professional photographer will be able to handle all lighting conditions, but it could be worthwhile bringing some fans for your guests.”
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Lauren Welsh from Magic Moments Studio completely agrees: “In Scotland, the weather isn’t just a background element – it’s a full-fledged co-star. On the rare occasion the sun is out in full force, harsh midday light can be a challenge… but not an impossible one to overcome.
"For example, high-contrast light can be used creatively for bold, editorial style shots with deep shadows and brilliant whites.
“My top tip is to seek shade if possible – in the shadow of castle walls or a mountain or even just under a tree.”
"Scotland wears its weather well – the rain, the wind and the sudden bursts of sunshine (just like this couple experienced), is all part of the charm," says Sam McGregor. (Photo: Sam McGregor).
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So just what is the ‘sweet spot’ for capturing outstanding wedding photos? Lauren doesn’t hesitate: “Golden hour – the time just before sunset – is particularly special.
"It casts a warm, honey-like glow over the landscape and creates pure magic. It’s always good to build some flexibility into your day’s timeline so your photographer can whisk you away for 15 minutes during golden hour.”
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Dionne appreciates the potential of this time of day too: “Golden hour moments are usually when the couple have relaxed into their day. The ‘strict timetable’ elements are over, the food has been served and the drinks are flowing, and they get a moment to be alone together.
"In summer this is usually post-dessert, while in spring/autumn it can be earlier in the evening. Be sure to discuss it with your photographer at your pre-wedding catch-up.”
"No matter what the weather, brides should make sure they have heel protectors to stop them sinking into the ground or, failing that, a change of shoes for the evening,” says photographer Dionne Morris. (Photo: Morris-Jones Photography)
What to do if it rains on your wedding day
It seems our photographers all share the same mindset: whatever the weather does, just embrace it. It’s not going to stop you getting brilliant pics.
“You might get bursts of sunshine, sudden showers, dramatic clouds or misty hills,” says Lauren. “No matter what, you’ll come away with images that are wild and beautiful.”
Work closely with your photographer to make sure you’ve got plenty of options to pick from.
“For example, let your photographer scout locations close to your venue in advance for the best pairings of light and landscape,” she continues.
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Dionne encourages couples to speak directly to venue coordinators when planning the big day.
“Double-check what the ‘bad weather plan’ is at your shortlisted venues. That way you can find out if there are indoor photo opportunities should the weather take a turn.”
