Glencoe, Scottish Highlands queer couples photoshoot - how to plan for extreme weather - Scotland queer photographer

We had this photoshoot planned with Meg & Sasha for weeks - a few days before, we discussed if we should postpone because of extreme weather circumstances. The forecast predicted it would be super windy and rainy all day. We agreed to go ahead as timings were a bit difficult and they had taken time off from work for this, and were hoping a little bit that, as usual, the Scottish weather would take a turn and it would be manageable.

When we got out of the car at the first location, the wind started blowing Sasha's hair like crazy, almost sweeping her off her feet, barely able to shut the door of the car. We decided to wait a little in the car in hopes that it would clear. After a while, we decided to just go for it - we only really had 10 minutes or so - as they both got soaked and freezing. I could barely see the images I was taking, battling with the elements... Then, after warming up for a bit, putting on some layers, we went to brace the rain and wind again...

As a Scotland-based queer elopement photographer - I see it all the time - people underestimate the Scottish weather - myself included. It is so incredibly quick to change - I have to admit, I don't trust the weather app much anymore... It is no understatement that 4 seasons can happen in a day in Scotland.

I learn from every session and mentally prepare a list of things I will prepare for the next session...

Here is a list of things I now advise couples to prepare before a photoshoot:

1. Layers Genuinely - Even if it is the height of Summer - bring layers. Possibly, layers that can still be part of your outfit. A nice long-sleeve shirt, sweater, a cute cardigan, a shawl... If you are wearing long sleeves but thin layers, dress or thin smart trousers - thermo layers are a must for all months, pretty much apart from Summer(but honeslty, bringing them just in case during Summer is not a stupid... )

2. Hot drink in a flask/thermos It helps a lot if you have a hot drink to sip on to warm your body up!

3. Rainproof jacket + umbrella

The truth is - most rain coats are not extremely photogenic, but it is still great to have them for the in-between moments, to keep yourself dry and warm when it is needed. Umbrellas in Scotland are most often not very useful because of the wind - but again, great to have them just in case...

4. Lean into it! - and bring some towels and a change of clothes... The most important bit - if it is super rainy, I would advise you to lean into it, dance in the rain, get soaked, get some cool photos - and make sure you've got some towels and a change of clothes!

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