Tips for photography in winter
Some helpful ideas to help you keep warm and get the best images you can during freezing nights out below zero.
Multiple Layers: Wear warm clothing and bring extra layers in case you need to add or remove them for comfort.
Protect your gear: Use a weather-resistant camera bag or wrap your camera in a plastic bag to keep it dry. If shooting time-lapses or star trails, then it is vital you insulate your cameras from the cold to ensure cameras function normally and don’t freeze for continuous hours.
Use a tripod: The cold temperatures can make it difficult to hold your camera steady, so using a tripod can help improve image sharpness.
Use lens warmers: these are like mini electric blankets for your camera lens that will ensure they do not frost or fog over.
Keep spare camera batteries in your internal pockets, preferably as close to your skin as possible to prolong their life as the cold drains power fast.
Bring hand and toe warmers as standing around in freezing temperatures is tough on the extremities, especially if standing around for hours on end.
If hiking in the backcountry or icy terrain ( like pictured ), always carry a Personal Locator Beacon ( PLB ) for safety as the risks while shooting in winter exponentially increase.
Head to your local outdoor store for advice, specialist stores like FutherFaster, Macpac, and Bivouac Outdoor can advise on more specific gear requirements.
With the shorter daylight hours in winter, it is wise to plan the arrival to your location early so you can get set up and scout around before nightfall.
Bring extra snacks and hot drinks to maintain stamina as shooting in the cold drains energy twice as fast as in normal conditions.
