With the announcement of the Ski Utah Contest this week, you’re probably preparing to head out into the cold and begin photographing some snowy fun in hopes of winning a free ski lift to the greatest snow on earth! But before you head out, there are a few tips provided by pictureline and Chris Pearson, from SkiUtah, that you need to know in order to protect your precious camera gear against the frigid cold of the winter season!
© Chris Pearson• Make sure to have a supply of multiple batteries for your camera, flash and other tools that require external power. Cold weather drains battery power drastically faster than warmer conditions, and it would be unfortunate to have the perfect shot lined up as your camera battery dies.
• Even without snowfall, moisture can make its way into your camera equipment. Keep rain covers on hand to avoid moisture building up on and inside your camera and lenses while you’re on location. There’s nothing worse than damaging your equipment when it could have been completely avoidable.
• Try to avoid at all costs changing your lenses outdoors. The smallest amount of moisture allowed to get inside the camera body can easily freeze and destroy the camera.
© Chris Pearson• If you’ve ever had a nice cold bottle of Coke on a hot afternoon, you’re probably familiar with the process of condensation. Without proper care, this can happen to your camera equipment if you take your cold equipment into a warm setting too quickly. Store your gear in a plastic bag when coming inside to allow for any condensation to occur on the outside of the bag, instead of on your camera. Leave your gear in the bag for a couple hours before taking out so the camera can gradually warm up.
• Do some research when it comes to the cameras minimum and maximum operation temperature allowance. Be aware of what the manufacturer states is the acceptable temperature for your camera, and use good judgment. If you think it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for the camera.
• Most importantly, be sure to stay warm! An image isn’t worth more than your your health and happiness, so use discretion as to the safety of a situation. The time spent on the slopes, or the winter wonderland at the family cabin will best be enjoyed by taking care of your equipment and more importantly, taking care of yourself and your loved ones! Have fun and stay safe out there!
© Chris Pearson