There are two rules in cold weather photography: 1) Protect you, 2) Protect your gear. Make sure you have layers of clothing that can go on and off as you work in the field. Be prepared for moisture so that you can stay dry. You never want to mix being wet and cold at the same time. It can lead to disastrous results. And be sure you have protection for your hands. Metal tripods become icy uncomfortable to hold.
As for your gear, your bags should be weather proof. If you use Lowepro bags, the "AW" models have an outer cover that's a terrific extra layer of protection. Keep spare batteries in your pocket, not your bag, so they stay warm. And finally, let your gear warm up in cases or Ziploc bags before exposing it to indoor temperatures. Otherwise condensation will form on your camera and lens.
Here's a good article by Laura Charon titled, Cold Weather Photography that provides additional insights (and some great photos!).
Photo of Boulder Creek in the Snow by Mark Castleman.
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Thanks Derrick! Great info. I always knew the bulk of it but not the crucial proper gear warming once indoors.
Hey Derrick,
Getting ready to venture out into those chilly San Francisco winter days? ;-)
Thanks for the reminders, in all seriousness. My daughter and I are going to venture out either tonight or tomorrow night to photograph Christmas lights - I'll have to be sure to take a nice big Ziploc bag with me. Fortunately we're having a break from our usual western Washington (state) perpetual rain; but the nighttime temps are going to be a bit chillier than usual.
These all tips are really useful for me while i was shoot in snow covered area.Thank you very much for your precious tips
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