An Engagement Session in the Rain at the Met Museum and Central Park

There’s something undeniably romantic about New York City in the rain, especially when a couple fully leans into it. This engagement session began just outside the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art and continued through Central Park as the weather shifted from a light drizzle to a steady rain, and then softened again just in time for our final portraits.

Rainy engagement sessions often worry couples at first, but this shoot is a perfect example of why weather can elevate photos rather than take away from them. The changing conditions created atmosphere, texture, and a sense of intimacy that feels distinctly New York.

Couple: Nolan and Lennox
Photographer: Anna
Location: The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Central Park

Starting Outside the Met Museum

We began the session on the steps and surrounding exterior of the Met, where the architecture provides a classic, timeless backdrop regardless of the weather. At first, the rain was light enough that it almost disappeared in photos, adding a softness to the air without overpowering the scene.

The stone facade, wide steps, and symmetry of the building framed the couple beautifully, giving us strong, editorial-style images right from the start. Light rain often enhances these moments, softening harsh lines and adding a subtle glow to skin tones and backgrounds.

Embracing the Rain in Central Park

As we moved into Central Park, the rain picked up, and instead of rushing through the shoot, the couple embraced it fully. Clear umbrellas became both practical and visually striking, allowing us to capture close, intimate moments while still seeing faces clearly and keeping the focus on connection rather than weather.

Clear umbrellas are one of our favorite rainy-day tools. They photograph cleanly, don’t block light, and allow raindrops to sparkle in the background. The reflections in the pathways, the sheen on the leaves, and the soft contrast created by the rain added depth and texture to every frame.

This is where Central Park really shines. The tree-lined paths, open walkways, and subtle curves of the landscape create endless variety, even in less-than-perfect conditions. Rain slows everything down, and that calm energy often translates beautifully on camera.

Continuing on to Belvedere Castle as the Rain Lifted

By the time we reached Belvedere Castle, the rain began to ease. The couple put their umbrellas away, and we captured a final set of portraits without them. Even though the rain had slowed, you can still see droplets in the air, adding movement and atmosphere without overwhelming the frame.

Belvedere Castle offers elevated views, textured stone, and a slightly whimsical feel that works especially well in changing weather. The combination of damp stone, soft skies, and lingering mist gave these images a cinematic quality that feels both romantic and uniquely tied to the day.

Bethesda Terrace, Quiet Moments in a Busy Place

One of the most special parts of this session took place inside Bethesda Terrace. Even on rainy days, this area is typically filled with people, but with careful timing, positioning, and experience, we were able to capture images that feel completely private.

These photographs weren’t created with quick AI shortcuts. Instead, they were made using traditional techniques, multiple exposures, and precise compositing in post-production. While modern Photoshop AI tools make it easier than ever to remove distractions, we still prefer the old-fashioned approach. It allows for greater control, cleaner results, and images that feel intentional rather than overly processed.

The end result is a series of photographs where it appears as though the couple had all of Bethesda Terrace to themselves, a rare and beautiful illusion in one of the most visited places in New York City.

Why Rainy Engagement Sessions Work So Well

Rainy sessions often produce some of the most memorable engagement photos. The light is softer, the park is quieter, and couples naturally move closer together. Puddles create reflections, umbrellas add intimacy, and the overall mood feels more organic and less posed.

With experience comes the ability to adapt quickly, choose the right locations, and know when to wait out the weather versus when to lean into it. From navigating busy landmarks to understanding how rain interacts with light and architecture, these details make all the difference.

A Thoughtful, Intentional Approach to Every Session

Every engagement session is approached with care and intention, from location planning to post-production. Knowing Central Park deeply allows us to select spots that work beautifully in all seasons and weather conditions, whether that means open paths, covered architectural spaces, or elevated viewpoints.

From the Met Museum to Central Park’s most iconic landmarks, this rainy engagement session is a reminder that sometimes the most beautiful images come from leaning into the unexpected rather than avoiding it.

Rain or shine, New York City always delivers, and when couples trust the process, the results speak for themselves.

Finally, rain or shine, we are always ready to make your engagement photos extraordinary. If you’re curious about how we handle rainy-day shoots, check out our article for tips and inspiration.