Sunrise Beach Family Session During a typical florida Thunderstorm
Starting my day at 4:30am for a scheduled sunrise session is not just routine for me; it’s a cherished part of my photography journey. Meeting clients at the beach by 6:30am is always an exhilarating experience, but on one particular day, I woke up to a less-than-ideal weather forecast. Despite the clouds and rain in the forecast, I’ve learned not to stress about it. Over the years, I’ve honed my ability to interpret weather forecasts, which has significantly contributed to the success of my sessions. By analyzing cloud cover percentages, rain chances, and utilizing a reliable radar app, I’ve become adept at navigating unpredictable weather patterns.
This particular sunrise session held special significance for me because the family I was photographing had become more than just clients; they felt like friends. Having documented their milestones—from the birth of their child to a large extended family sunset session—I felt deeply connected to their journey. As I drove to the session location, I couldn’t ignore the darker clouds rolling in and the raindrops hitting my windshield. Despite my initial concerns, I remained confident in my ability to deliver a memorable experience for my clients.
When the heaviest thunderstorm struck just as we arrived at the beach, I’ll admit, I was momentarily thrown off. Seeing the storm unfold, I experienced a fleeting moment of doubt, questioning whether I had made the right call. However, I quickly reassured myself and my clients, urging them to wait just 10 minutes for the storm to pass. Consulting my radar app once again, I confirmed that the worst of the storm was almost behind us.
True to my intuition, within minutes, the rain subsided, revealing a breathtaking post-thunderstorm backdrop unlike any other. With the sun breaking through the horizon and the dramatic clouds adding an ethereal touch to the scene, we seized the opportunity to capture some truly extraordinary moments. Since that session, I’ve remained steadfast in my pre-session procedures, trusting my instincts to determine when rescheduling is necessary. I’m proud to say that in my five years as a photographer, I’ve only had to reschedule two sessions due to weather—a testament to the effectiveness of my approach and the remarkable experiences it continues to yield.
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