Condensation and Moisture
Wintertime can offer a wealth of delightful photographic opportunities, but many photographers may balk at taking their expensive equipment out into the cold and wet of winter. Never fear! Here are a few simple tips on how to protect your camera in winter weather.
Despite the old school of thought, it is not really necessary to keep your camera in a plastic bag for winter shoots. The small amount of moisture is unlikely to harm your camera.
Do take extra precautions in rainy weather, however. Some lenses aren’t completely sealed against the weather without having a filter on the front. Add a little extra protection around the lens-camera mount using a thick rubber band or even a hair scrunchie.
Lens Fog
Quick temperature changes can cause your lens to fog, which can make taking pictures all but impossible. Keep your camera in your bag for several minutes when you move from inside to outside (or vice versa). The bag’s insulating capacity will allow your camera to change temperature slowly, reducing the chances of fog. If it does happen, don’t panic. The only remedy it to wait.
A Dropped Camera
If your camera takes a tumble into the powder, react quickly and without panic. Pick the camera up by the strap and gently blow off any snow. Resist the urge to run inside, you’re better off having the snow stay than having it melt, drenching your camera. Carefully blow and brush off as much snow as you can (using a cold glove or cloth) especially away from any doors, lens mounts, or other openings.
Other Dos and Don’ts
- DON’T put your camera under your coat to insulate it. The physical exertion of your trek, even in the cold, will have you sweaty and that, combined with your body heat, would make condensation and fogging much more likely.
- DO use a lens hood to keep falling snow or rain off your lens.
- DO bring extra batteries. Cold weather saps power so make sure your primary and backup batteries are fully charged the night before your shoot.
- DON’T change lenses if you can avoid it. Exposing the interior of your camera to extreme temperatures or moisture is risky. If you must change lenses, do so quickly. Practice this skill until you’ve perfected it. Stand with your back to the wind and point your camera down to avoid any precipitation getting inside.
Perhaps one of the most important things about protecting your camera from the snow is that, if your camera suddenly shuts off, don’t keep turning it on and off in hopes that it will power up. This likely means something inside has gotten wet. Shut it down and head inside. Open up all the doors and compartments on the camera and let it dry completely overnight before attempting to power it up. If it still won’t come on, you may need to consult your local repair expert.
For more ways to protect your camera in winter weather, head over to SunnySports catalog!
Featured Image from Annie Spratt/Unsplash
