Best locations for a rainy day photoshoot in Paris
Your long-awaited trip to Paris is finally here! You have even booked a photoshoot with me to capture your memories. Maybe you imagined yourself posing in front of the Eiffel Tower, or strolling along the Seine… and then… oh no! Is this rain on the weather forecast? Don’t despair just yet! Paris can be equally romantic in any weather. The locations in the list below can be great solutions for a rainy day photoshoot!
1. Bir Hakeim Bridge
When it is wet outside but you still want that iconic view of the Eiffel Tower, my go-to recommendation is the Bir Hakeim bridge. Perhaps you recognize it from the famous scene in Christopher Nolan’s movie Inception with Leonardo DiCaprio? The bridge has two levels: one for pedestrians and vehicules, and the other one above for the rails of the métro. This two-level architecture can offer shelter from the rain. At the same time, the bridge also offers panoramic view towards the Eiffel Tower, the Seine river, and the boats passing below. On a foggy day, the Eiffel Tower can be veiled in a mist of raindrops, which creates a romantic and mystical vibe. During a sunshower, you might be lucky enough to witness a rainbow across the sky.
2. Louvre Museum
As a former palace and home to the French kings, I probably don’t need to convince you why the Louvre is a worthy backdrop for your Paris photoshoot. Its public courtyards are lined with covered passages that showcase the historic architecture and are accessible without tickets. The passages open to the central courtyard, so we can still capture the iconic pyramid in the background while taking shelter from the rain.
Armed with tickets, we have even more possibilities to explore the inside of the museum. You can easily spend hours here hiding from turbulent weather while soaking in some of the world’s most celebrated art pieces. One thing is certain: We can always count on the French aristocracy to design impressive interiors! If you are interested in an indoor photoshoot at the Louvre, make sure to reach out to me in advance to arrange (I might be able to help you skip the line too!)
3. PAlAIS Royal
Rain doesn’t need to spoil your photoshoot at Palais Royal. We could always wait it out while taking photos under the colonnades.
4. Petit Palais
Vastly under-rated, Palais Royal is easily one of the most glamorous shooting locations in Paris! Its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture features an oversized gold-covered gate, which is perfect backdrop for your Vogue-worthy floor-length gowns. Inside, the museum’s ornate decor, large paintings and grand staircase can make for a fantastic art-themed photoshoot. The inner courtyard garden is accessible on rainy days too and can add a touch of greenery to your portraits. Best of all? The entry to the museum is free!
5. A Parisian Café
A cozy Parisian café is a great addition to any photoshoot, regardless of weather. The charming outdoor terraces, often covered, provide a quintessential Paris backdrop, with their iconic wicker chairs and small round tables. The vintage decor offers a welcoming, intimate setting for capturing candid moments. Whether it’s a couple sharing a coffee and croissants or a family enjoying hot chocolate, cafés bring a sense of authenticity to your photos. Is there a better way to capture the essence of the Parisian life?
6. Covered Passages
The covered passages of Paris are perfect for rainy day photoshoots! Their glass roofs offer shelter from the rain while still letting in the precious daylight. Spots like Galerie Vivienne, etc. boast chic Parisian architecture, vintage boutiques, and beautiful mosaics that create a unique, old-world charm.
7. Embrace the rain
Sometimes the best way to deal with a rainy day is to just embrace it and head out with umbrellas in hand! The soft, diffused light from the clouds creates a romantic, moody atmosphere that adds charm and intimacy to photos. Without harsh light and contrasting shadows, most people find that their complexion looks even more flattering than on a sunny day. Umbrellas can become playful props that bring life to the shoot. Whether it’s a couple huddled under one umbrella or kids splashing through puddles, these spontaneous moments capture the magic of Paris in the rain.
