Tips for Rain, Shine, and Everything in Between
Let’s be real: Paris is always a good idea… but the weather doesn’t always get the memo. Whether you’re here for cherry blossoms, golden leaves, or that dreamy Eiffel Tower glow, the skies can switch moods faster than a Parisian waiter at peak lunch hour.
But don’t stress, you came prepared. With this guide, we’re going to weatherproof your Paris photoshoot so you can feel confident, comfortable, and totally camera-ready no matter what the forecast throws our way.
From springtime sprinkles to summer scorchers, river breezes to surprise snowflakes, I’ve seen it all, and I’ve got you! Let’s talk tips, tricks, and what to pack (besides your best smile) so you’re set for any season!
1. Come Rain or Shine: Paris Weather, Season by Season
Paris doesn’t do boring, not even with its weather. Each season brings its own mood, with a healthy dose of Parisian unpredictability. Whether you’re dreaming of a picnic under the cherry blossoms or cuddling up in a café as the snow falls outside, here’s what to expect when the calendar flips and the clouds (or sun!) roll in.
Spring in Paris (March-May)
Ah, spring. Paris is shaking off winter, trees are blushing pink, and the air smells like possibility (and croissants). It’s romantic, it’s fresh, but it’s also a little unpredictable. Think blue skies one minute, surprise drizzle the next.
Style Tip: Layers are your love language. Add a light trench, a light scarf that flutters in the breeze, and shoes you won’t regret if we do a little puddle hopping.
Summer in Paris (June-August)
Long days, golden light, and citywide picnics by the Seine…summer is always magical. But let’s be real: it can get hot! Like melting in front of the Mona Lisa, hot. Midday sessions might mean squinting and sweating, so I only book to start the first two hours of sunlight when the light (and temps) are softer.
Pro Tip: If you’re susceptible to the summer heat, bring a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated. And let me know if you need to slip into some shade!
Autumn in Paris (September-November)
Paris in the fall is basically a film set. Burnt orange leaves, cozy café terraces, and that crisp air that practically begs for a hot chocolate. It’s a favorite for a reason, and the light? Soft, golden, flattering. Just bring a layer or two to stay comfy as temps dip!
Tourist Tip: Fall is shoulder season, which means fewer crowds and cozier vibes. Book your museum tickets in advance anyway! You’ll thank yourself later.
Winter in Paris (December-February)
Cold? Sure. Gorgeous? Absolutely! Winter in Paris means glowing lights, quieter streets, and the kind of cozy, bundled-up moments that feel straight out of a snow globe. Snow is rare, but magical when it comes. Even without flurries, you can get stunning shots with twinkling decorations and Parisian architecture as your backdrop.
Style Tip: Pack your most fabulous jacket and make it the main character. A chic coat means you’ll look incredible and stay warm all session long!
Need help choosing the right colors for your session? I’ve created a full guide to seasonal color palettes with mood boards, outfit inspo, and ideas tailored to couples, families, and solo shoots. Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms or cozying up in winter knits, you’ll find the perfect hues to match the moment. P.S. You’ll find some sneak peek outfit suggestions in there, too!
2. Wind: Paris’s Most Extra Accessory
The Eiffel Tower might be the most photographed landmark in the city, but wind? Wind is the most committed background character.
Paris Nerd Moment: Did you know the Eiffel Tower was designed with wind in mind?
Gustave Eiffel built the structure to flow with the wind rather than fight it. The iconic curves of the tower aren’t just for looks, they’re engineered so the wind’s force travels through the structure and down into the ground. Basically, it’s doing a giant architectural hair flip at all times.
From the breezy bridges along the Seine to the gusty corners of Montmartre, Paris loves to stir things up, literally.
But here’s the good news: wind can add gorgeous movement and drama to your photos. Flowing dresses, tousled hair, a scarf mid-whip? Yes, please! That said, a well-placed gust can also send your hair into full lion’s mane mode or turn a wide-brimmed hat into a flying frisbee. (It’s happened. We’ve laughed. We retrieved the hat.)
Style Tip: Embrace the breeze with flowy fabrics, but keep a hair tie and a small brush or comb in your bag to tame those post-gust tangles. A little wind-swept texture? Gorgeous. A full bird’s nest? Let’s not!
Bottom line? Windy moments are often some of the most magical. I’ll help guide your poses to work with the movement, not against it, and we’ll turn that breeze into pure cinematic gold.
3. Rain: Not the End, Just a Plot Twist
So, the forecast says rain. Deep breath, don’t panic. This isn’t a photoshoot-ruining emergency, it’s a chance to get creative. Rainy Paris is moody, romantic, cinematic…basically a Wes Anderson daydream. Whether it’s a light mist or a sudden shower, I’ve got workarounds, backup plans, and plenty of umbrella-related poses up my sleeve.
Plus, rain clears the crowds. Fewer tourists = more space to play. Ever dreamed of having the Louvre courtyard (almost) to yourself? Rain might just be your secret weapon.
Tourist Tip: Paris is full of cozy, photogenic hideaways. Covered arcades, cute cafés, metro entrances, and even ornate doorways all make for charming rainy-day backdrops. If the skies really open up, we’ll pivot fast and find cover that still brings the Paris magic.
The best part? Rainy photos often end up being some of the most memorable. Think: reflections in puddles, misty Eiffel Tower moments, and a spontaneous splash or two. We’ll embrace the vibe and maybe even make it look like we planned it all along!
Rainy Day Style Checklist
- Water-friendly fabrics: Go for wool blends, polyester, or rain-friendly cotton. Avoid silk unless you’re channeling “watercolor surprise.”
- Rain-ready hair: Braids, buns, or natural texture all work well. Pop a mini brush or comb in your bag for post-drizzle zhuzhing.
- Sensible soles: Choose boots or shoes with grip. Mixing cobbled streets with slippery soles is not the aesthetic we’re going for! Bonus: Waterproof Chelsea boots are cute and practical.
- Statement coat: A fabulous trench or bold wrap coat can carry the whole look while keeping you warm so you don’t have to fuss with layers!
- Clear umbrella: The unsung hero of chic rain shots. This cute accessory lets the light through, keeps you dry, and doesn’t block your outfit!
4. Light It Right: Making the Most of Every Glow
You might think the weather is the biggest wildcard in your photoshoot, but lighting? That’s the real game-changer. Luckily, Paris serves up the kind of natural light photographers dream about. And whether the sky’s overcast, glowing gold, or somewhere in between, I know how to make it work for you.
Cloudy skies: Don’t stress. Soft light will soften those shadows, and that means even skin tones and beautifully diffused backgrounds! It’s basically nature’s giant softbox. But if it’s so cloudy the sun is struggling to get through, I may recommend delaying our sunrise start for 30 minutes or so to give the sun time to meet us!
Bright sun: When it’s all beams and blue skies, we get creative with shade, angles, and sometimes even that bold, punchy light for a little extra drama. I’ll guide you to the best spots so you’re never squinting straight into the sun!
Golden hour: It’s what every photographer dreams of! That buttery light just after sunrise makes everything look dreamy and warm. I’ll always recommend these time slots for that extra beautiful light. And although the light is just as gorgeous for sunset, I only schedule morning sessions to beat the crowds. So you can enjoy the sunset from a fabulous rooftop, instead!
Mixed lighting: Bring it on! I’ll adjust camera settings, reposition you like a pro, and use every tool in my mental lighting kit to make sure you’re glowing, no matter what the sky is doing.
The point is: No perfect forecast is required, just someone who knows how to make the most of every kind of light (hi, that’s me!).
5. What to Pack: Your Paris Photoshoot Survival Kit
Look, you don’t need a suitcase full of props or a Hollywood glam squad. But a few smart additions to your bag can make your shoot smoother, comfier, and way more fun. Whether it’s misty, windy, blazing, or brisk, here’s what I recommend popping into your tote or day bag:
Photoshoot Day Checklist:
- Mini brush or comb: For taming post-wind flyaways or rain-slicked strands.
- Clear umbrella: For rainy-day romance and soft, flattering light.
- Lip balm & tissues: A dry pout is a distracted pout. Bonus: tissues double as a blotting sheet if you’re glowy in the wrong way.
- Compact mirror: For quick touch-ups without the bathroom scramble.
- Water bottle: Especially in warmer months! Hydrated skin is happy skin.
- Hand warmers (winter) or mini fan (summer): Your secret weapon for staying comfy!
- Comfy, walkable shoes: Trust me, we’ll be strolling! Bring a backup pair if you’re wearing something cute-but-questionable.
- Layers: Always better to peel one off than wish you’d packed that extra cardigan. When you feel cold, your smile isn’t as natural!
- Backup hair tie or bobby pins: Just in case the wind gets ambitious.
- Tote or small backpack: To stash the above and any outfit extras without fuss.
There’s no need to bring it all, but picking a few from this list based on the season will have you prepped and feeling like a pro. And if you forget something, I’ve got a few tricks in my camera bag, too!
Insider Parisian Tip: Want to blend in with the locals? Parisians are pros at looking effortlessly prepared. You’ll often find a compact umbrella, a stylish scarf (for fashion and sudden temperature drops), and a reusable tote tucked in their bags. Practical and chic? Mais oui.
When the Weather Is the Magic
Whether the skies stay sunny or decide to throw us a little Parisian drama, we roll with it and come out with something beautiful. That’s the power of staying present, having fun, and trusting the process (and your photographer 😉).
“It was a cold and rainy morning, but Rachael’s energy was just over the roof. She made us feel really comfortable and made sure to advise us on the best pose possible. She did such a great job in capturing our best moments.” – Fangyi
Whatever the weather, you’ll walk away with memories that feel as real and radiant as the moment itself.
Let’s weather it all and make some unforgettable memories along the way!
