As a photographer in St. Louis, I’ve learned one truth the hard way: the weather here can change in the blink of an eye. One moment it’s sunny, the next it’s a wind tunnel with sideways rain. Especially when photographing high school seniors—who’ve spent hours on hair, makeup, and wardrobe—it’s critical to know when to reschedule and when to roll with it.
If you’re a client wondering why I might suggest rescheduling, or a fellow photographer trying to find your rhythm, here’s what I always consider before making the call.
🌦️ 1. Not All Rain is Equal
There’s a big difference between scattered light rain and a severe thunderstorm.
- Scattered Showers? Sometimes manageable, especially if we have flexibility in timing or access to covered outdoor spots.
- Thunderstorms, Lightning, or Heavy Downpours? That’s a hard no. It’s just not safe—for anyone involved—and the quality of the session will suffer.
💨 2. Don’t Underestimate the Wind
This is the most overlooked weather factor—and the most destructive.
I would take a little rain over high winds any day—especially when I’m photographing my senior girls. Wind ruins carefully styled hair, sends props flying, and creates stress in the moment. It also increases the risk of damage to your camera gear and makes it hard to capture clean, flattering shots.
🚗 3. Road & Driving Conditions
St. Louis roads can flood easily during and after storms, and visibility can drop fast. When considering whether to proceed, I ask:
- Are the roads safe for my clients and myself?
- Will clients be driving long distances or on unfamiliar routes?
- Is visibility going to be poor at our session time?
My priority is making sure everyone gets to and from the session safely—not just getting the shot.
🌡️ 4. Temperature & Client Comfort
Whether it’s scorching heat or biting cold, extreme temperatures can make for miserable sessions—and that discomfort shows in the final images.
Watch for:
- Rosy cheeks or flushed faces from heat
- Shivering or red noses from the cold
- Humidity that messes with makeup and hair (not to mention fogged lenses)
When seniors are uncomfortable, it’s hard for them to feel relaxed and confident. And that’s exactly what I want to capture in their portraits.
🤒 5. Health—Theirs and Mine
If anyone is feeling under the weather—whether it’s a fever, a cold, or just general fatigue—it’s better to reschedule.
I know some clients feel guilty canceling, but I promise: it’s okay. I’d much rather photograph you at your best. That energy (or lack of it) always shows in the photos.
The same goes for me—if I’m not well or dealing with an injury, I owe it to you to show up 100%, not just “get through it.”
📷 6. My Camera Gear Comes First, Too
Rain and wind can damage sensitive camera equipment. I always bring protective gear, but if conditions are rough, I have to ask: Is it worth the risk?
- Wet cameras mean repair bills.
- Strong winds can cause unexpected accidents.
- Moisture and dust can wreak havoc on lenses and sensors.
If protecting my gear means giving you a better session later, that’s the right move.
✅ TL;DR: My Go-To Reschedule Checklist
Before every session, I ask myself:
- Is the weather safe and manageable?
- Are road conditions okay?
- Are you (and I) feeling well?
- Will this weather ruin hair, makeup, or wardrobe?
- Will my gear be safe?
- Will this session still feel joyful and calm?
If any of these are a no, then it’s worth rescheduling.
Final Thoughts
I promise—I’m not being picky or over-cautious when I suggest rescheduling. I want your session to be joyful, relaxed, and beautiful. That starts with the right weather and the right energy.
In St. Louis, we always have to stay flexible. But with a little care and planning, we’ll find the perfect day—and your photos will thank you for it.
priscillahudsonphoto.com 