by Editor Jane Lyons
Edited and published by Yvette Depaepe, the 12^th of December 2026

Elliott Erwitt

 “Some people feel the rain, others just get wet"

~Bob Marley~

The umbrella is one of the most iconic motifs in photography. Whether photographed candidly or as an orchestrated set-up, umbrellas in art symbolize cultural significance, elegance and protection. The classic umbrella shape is undoubtedly photogenic. It can soften hard lines and become a graphic focal point, or act as a bullseye, directing the viewer’s gaze towards the subject. Regardless of weather, adding an umbrella to a photograph in an artistic way can create an air of mystery, intrigue and energy.

Rain, snow, fog and mist are meteorological phenomena that photographers love, as they create the perfect atmosphere for a dramatic and ethereal photograph. The semi-circular shape of an umbrella is an appealing addition to a variety of storylines.

“Oh Boy” by Pristine Clothes

“Getting Wet 2384” by Karen Celella

“The Road Less Traveled” by Alain Villeneuve

“Darkened Days to Come” by Jay Satriani

“Umbrella” by Kendisan Seruyan

“Right rute” by Milan Malovrh

"Messenger” by Ivan Marlianto

“STOP” by Anette Ohlendorf

The umbrella originated in China in the 1st century, where it was used as both an umbrella and a parasol. The umbrella as we know it today was invented by a Parisian merchant named Jean Marius in 1705. The word 'umbrella' comes from the Latin 'umbra', meaning 'shade' or 'shadow'.

“Crossing” by Ivan Marlianto

“crashing” by Hari Sulistiawan

“winter passengers” by Nicoleta Gabor

“Umbrellas…” by Thierry Dufour

“Mirror, mirror on the wall……………..” by Carlo Ferrara

“No.522” by Adirek M

“Colors of the Mediterranean” by Diana Junakovic

“rainy people out of a bus” by HAN dong hee

“Red Umbrella” by Weiwei

In the Bible, the umbrella is said to symbolize divine protection and grace and fellowship with God. Politically, it can symbolize resistance. It can also be used as a shield against pepper spray and tear gas.

In art, in both painting and in photography, the iconic shape of the umbrella is ubiquitous, often symbolizing togetherness, shelter, elegance, or simply bad weather.

“Enjoy the rain without getting wet” by Yvette Depaepe

“A Man from Kashmir (India)” by Joxe Inazio Kuesta Garmendia

“when everything must come to an end” by Djeff Act

'Umbrella” by Arman Kuzel

by Antonio Grambone

“Stormbringer” by Tetsuya Hashimoto

“Over There it is Raining” by Fernando Correia da Silva

I have not addressed umbrella handles but the wonderful photograph “Flamingo Close Up” by Xavier Ortega, when inverted, comes to mind.

by Xavier Ortega (inverted with his permission).