The days are getting cooler, crisper and shorter, cold weather is right around the corner.
There are so many wonderful opportunities to take photos in the cold winter months…winter sports, holidays, snowy landscapes, and amazing light to work with.
Just like the summer camera care is important, winter camera care is important as well. Cameras are made for moderate temps, not extremes, and they can become damaged as winter temperatures drop.
That’s why I’ve put together 5 Easy Winter Camera Care Tips to help you take care of your equipment this winter.
Winter Camera Care Tips
Protect Your Camera
Just like you want to keep your camera protected from the heat of the summer you want to make sure you keep your camera safe from the winter elements as well. That’s why my number one winter camera care tip is to ensure that you keep your camera dry. Nothing can cause damage to your cameras like dampness or condensation.
If you are trying to capture beautiful images and the snow is falling or blowing onto your camera, having a rain cover will help save your kit. Remember that you don’t want to go cheap on this purchase. More than likely, you have thousands of dollars invested in your equipment and investing in protection will save you money in the long run. Here are some great options for you to choose from to ensure that your camera is protected from the elements.
Keep Batteries Warm
My number two tip is an easy and inexpensive tip, but one that many people often overlook. Tip number two is to make sure that you warm your batteries and carry a spare! Cold temperatures affect your camera batteries’ life and can even cut it in half. Keeping them warm, either with a pocket hand warmer or inside, will help extend their life. And to ensure you are never caught with a dead camera battery, always have a spare.
Protect Your Memory Cards
Number three, just like you keep your battery and camera warm and protected, don’t forget to care for your memory cards. Many high-end memory cards can handle extremes in temperature, but your average card will need some warmth. Keep it in the inside pocket of your camera bag or your jacket, as well as in a protective case.
Be Aware of Condensation
My number four tip for you is to watch out for condensation. When you go from your warm and toasty ski lodge out into the cold to snap those shots of your kiddos, the temperature change will cause condensation on your lens.
Temperature changes should be gradual; I’m not talking 5-10 minutes. I am talking for 30-60 minutes. If you’re like me, patience isn’t a strong suit, but I promise it will pay off. If you have an entryway or you know you are driving to your location, put your camera in the car or entry to begin acclimating sooner.
Protect When Going Indoors
And my number five winter camera care tip is one you may not consider. Just like when you went outside from inside, going inside from out will cause condensation on your camera. The easy fix for this is to place your camera in a re-sealable bag before heading in. This way, the condensation won’t hit your camera, only the bag.
Don’t forget that while taking care of your camera during extreme temperatures, taking care of yourself is also important. Wear warm clothing, including warm gloves and boots and make sure your skin is protected.
Use these winter camera care tips to help you keep your camera safe this season and to help you produce amazing photos and if you want to learn to understand your camera to get amazing pictures, join The Beginners Photography Essentials class today!
