Rain or Shine: Prepping for Outdoor Shoots in the Pacific Northwest
Outdoor shoots in the Pacific Northwest come with serious rewards—and serious unpredictability. One minute you’re filming under soft, overcast skies. The next, you're dealing with rain, fog, or a gust of wind that takes out half your setup.
As an art director working across Oregon and southern Washington, I’ve learned how to plan for all of it. Here’s how I prep for outdoor commercial shoots that look great, run smoothly, and stay on schedule—no matter what the forecast says.
1. Scout Like the Weather Depends on It
Because it does. I never rely on Google Maps or past photos. I scout in person, with the light, elevation, and seasonal conditions in mind. A great field in June might be a mud pit in October. Knowing the terrain ahead of time helps me design accordingly.
2. Design for Speed and Flexibility
Outdoor builds need to go up fast and come down even faster—especially if the weather turns. I lean toward modular setups, lightweight materials, and water-resistant finishes so we’re not scrambling mid-shoot.
3. Always Have a Plan B (and C)
Weather delays are common here, but they don’t have to derail the shoot. I always include a backup location option and alternate design setups that can pivot quickly. Covered builds, pop-up tents, and simple scene swaps can save a day.
4. Prep for Moisture—Even If It’s Not in the Forecast
Rain can sneak in even when the skies are clear in the morning. I treat all outdoor shoots as if moisture is a given. That means protecting surfaces, elevating sensitive materials, and keeping weather covers and sandbags on hand at all times.
5. Use the Atmosphere to Your Advantage
Some of the best-looking commercial shots I’ve worked on came from embracing the natural atmosphere. Fog, filtered sunlight, and puddles can create texture and depth you can’t fake in a studio. The trick is to design for it, not against it.
If you're producing a commercial outdoors in the Pacific Northwest, planning makes all the difference. I bring local experience, weather-tested design solutions, and a calm presence when the skies turn gray.
