Local photographer Fiona Elizabeth reveals how you can stop the weather ruining your big-day photographs

Credit: www.fionaelizabethphotography.com

Q – We're getting married next Christmas and we're worried about the weather ruining our photographs. Do you have any suggestions?

Fiona Elizabeth says: "Christmas is such a wonderful time of year to get married. There are lots of beautiful wedding venues, with open fires, champagne flowing and show-stopping trees. Family and friends are already excited for the festive season, but now your wedding has been added to the mix, there is a new excitement!  Everyone is buzzing about getting together and spoiling you both. But what of the weather?!  Winter is always challenging, but rain or shine stunning photographs can be taken anywhere. It's really knowing what to look for as a photographer and the type of photography you're after.

"Locations are key to making great winter images.  If the weather is blowing a gale and rain is lashing down, your venue needs to provide you with the room to photograph your group shots inside, as well as interesting areas where your portraits can be taken. With this in mind, when scouting out venues for your wedding day, always think of plan B -  indoor shots!

"Sometimes it is difficult to organise, but timings are key to winter weddings.  I wouldn’t worry so much about the rain or cold, but the light. I would suggest getting married around 13:00 - 13:30, which will allow your photographer time to capture the group shots as well as your portraits inside and out! This also gives you the afternoon to relax and enjoy your photos before it gets dark, which in December is around 15:30.

"The weather although cold can be beautiful, and at times very atmospheric. As long as it's dry, there is fun to be had shooting portraits in and around your venue's grounds. To make your images that little bit more special, think about adding a beautiful wrap. These can really add that little something extra to your images, especially if you have a strapless dress. That said, long sleeve wedding dresses can look stunning and will keep you warm!

"The rest is really up to your photographer. Make sure you see some winter weddings that they have photographed. Ask how they would deal with difficult light situations, or perhaps the abundance of light if the sun is low. Meet at the venue and walk around the grounds, scouting out interesting backdrops and areas for your family and portrait shoots. Always have a plan B in mind! But most of all enjoy your wedding day.  Years and months of planning will never be enough if the weather turns. So rain or shine - enjoy!"

To find out more about Fiona, visit www.fionaelizabethphotography.com