Protect Your Gear In Cold Weather

Recently, I went out to take pictures in the coldest conditions so far this season. I was bundled up from head to toe in layers of clothes and still froze! It made me think about my camera gear and what should be done to take care of one’s camera gear in cold weather.
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Going from extreme weather changes can be hard on your camera and lenses. It’s important to acclimate your gear to the temperature shifts. One thing you can do is spend some time, if possible at least 30 minutes, outside with your gear enclosed in your camera bag (so it can slowly cool down to the temperature outdoors) perhaps hiking to your photoshoot location. This will prevent moisture from getting into your camera from abrupt environmental changes.

While out in the cold, your battery will drain quickly. It’s important to bring spare batteries if you plan on being outside for any length of time. To keep them from draining, keep your batteries close to your body for the warmth.

When it’s time to leave the shoot location, remove your memory card from your camera, then seal your gear in a freezer bag and zip it into your camera bag. Leave it in there to acclimate back to the warmth of your house. Again, you’ll be avoiding moisture from penetrating the bag. By taking the memory card out before packing away your camera, you’ll have access to your images to work on them in your post-processing software, without disturbing your camera.

Keep yourself and your gear safe this winter but have a wonderful time!

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