Isn't it breathtaking when you see a wedding photo that just screams... DIFFERENT?
As a photographer, and creative - I'm really drawn to outside-the-norm-things. And a photo in the rain is absolutely not something you see everyday in a wedding gallery.
So, how do you get a killer photo in the rain? You've got to be brave, and willing to let the cleaner take care of your dress-mess.
TRUST. I definitely don't push my clients too far outside their comfort zone, but I will gently suggest something if I think it's worth it in the end. If I'm going to prepare a photo outdoors in the rain, I want my couple to spend as little time as possible getting wet and/or cold. When I ask - and they say yes - I know they are putting a lot of trust in my ability to make this crazy idea worth it to them.
LIGHT. This is important. If you don't get the light right, you won't see the rain. I've learned (by trial & error and the help of my amazing assistant) that a light needs to be placed at least 3 feet behind the couple. This gives enough room for rain drops between the light & the couple to be illuminated and give that beautiful back-lit glow around the couple. If it's dark out, a second light can be added to illuminate the front of the couple as well. If there is another light source already available, or you're looking for a silhouette, you can stick with one.
POSE. It's important to relax, and fall into a comfortable pose, or follow the direction of your photographer so that the image can have the impact it needs. If you're uncomfortable, or scrunched up in a way that makes it obvious you're trying to avoid getting wet - it won't work.
LOCATION. This matters! I've photographed rain photos under an awning before - where the couple were standing on dry-ish pavement, but the scenery behind them would never give that little secret away. I've also trudged out onto a golf course tee box to add to the dramatic effect of the couple standing out in the rain. The photo at the top of this post - you can see that I was going for some reflection impact (while trying to make sure I didn't show up in the reflection). Consider including the venue behind you - this would also add impact if it's lit up in the back ground.
Lastly - this works with snow as well! You'll see from the gallery below, I've done this in both rain & snow conditions. Enjoy!