Rain photography is a great way to show a scene in a more interesting way. Be it street, landscape, macro, or product photography.
Texture, composition, reflections – our article will show you exactly how to take advantage of gloomy weather on a rainy day.

Use Juxtaposition for Unique Compositions

Juxtaposition is one of the best compositional rules out there. You place a subject next to another subject or in a scene that contradicts the original idea or message. One way to show great rain photography is to place a subject in it that wouldn’t usually find its place there. Mixing rain for example, makes for a powerful and symbolic shot.
Our example mixes sports and falling rain. Most sports stop and get called off due to rain, so putting them together is unusual and makes for great subjects.

Shoot a Rain Covered Cityscape

Cityscapes don’t have to be picture-perfect. You don’t always need a traditional correct exposure and usual composition. Here, you can use rain to your advantage in showing a different side of a city.
By using a rain-covered window, you can show the city in an interesting manner. You don’t even need to go outside in the wet weather for this!
In this example, the city is in the background and out of focus. The rooftops and buildings are not the main focus. Instead, the focus is on the water droplets. Because of this close-up on the raindrops themselves, we get the impression of a city rather than fact. It’s a great way to show a place through shape, color, and textures.

Create Fun Portraits With Umbrellas

Umbrellas add shape, form, color, texture, and size to a photo. On top of this, they also add the metaphysical idea of protection and safety from the rain falling all around.
Some of us might even relate to that time where that umbrella wielder poked us in the eye.
They can also become a natural frame for your subject. You can have an umbrella blocking unattractive areas in your scene, for example.

Use Raindrops in Macro Photography Backgrounds

Macro photography is already amazing, rain makes the story more interesting. It sets the scene and adds texture to an otherwise drab background. It also places the insects or flowers in a tropical environment.
Macro photography involves very wide apertures. This means that the background will be completely out of focus. It might show colors but the rain adds texture. Grab your macro lens and try it out. You might even find that some of the subjects in your scene react differently to the bad weather.

Try Reflections in an Upside Down Perspective

Changing your perspective has a great effect on your photography. It’s not only sought after. It’s also necessary to keep your images interesting and different. Changing the placement of your camera can make a world of difference. Rain is the perfect setting for a top-down shot. Reflections in puddles will make the world look upside down. Combine this technique with interesting shapes or colors.

Last modified: February 26, 2021