The weather outside is frightful but for photography, it is quite delightful. Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

Winter photography poses its challenges, yet the effort is undoubtedly rewarding. Here are some tips to enhance your winter photography skills.

Condensation

It's crucial to avoid subjecting your camera equipment to abrupt temperature fluctuations, as electronics and moisture are a problematic combination. While moisture may eventually evaporate when the equipment warms up to room temperature, this process can be time-consuming.

To mitigate temperature changes, I store my camera in its bag before transitioning between indoor and outdoor environments. The bag provides some insulation against extreme temperatures. Upon returning home, I leave my gear in the camera bag and refrain from opening it for at least an hour.

Additionally, I maintain a cool environment in my car to minimize condensation and make the transition from a warm vehicle to the cold less abrupt. This approach helps prevent the temptation to stay in the car, shedding gloves and coat while cranking up the heat, rather than venturing out to capture a photo.

Batteries

Ensure the batteries stay warm for optimal camera performance in extremely cold conditions. Your camera will operate effectively as long as the batteries are functional, but be aware that cold weather accelerates battery drainage. For winter shoots, it's advisable to carry multiple sets of charged batteries, with a preference for types that perform well in low temperatures. Store extra batteries in a pocket within your jacket to maintain their warmth, and consider adding a chemical hand warmer to the pocket for added heat. Regularly rotate the batteries between the camera and your warm pocket to sustain their performance.

Tripods

Avoid touching a cold tripod with your bare hands, as it can be uncomfortable. To address this issue, some photographers opt for tripod leg warmers, which are available from various manufacturers. Alternatively, you can improvise by using plumber's pipe insulation for the tripod legs. Crafting your own tripod leg covers is a budget-friendly option—utilize foam pipe insulation and hockey tape (known for its cold resistance) for an effective solution under five bucks. Exercise caution to avoid forcing the tripod into the snow, as this can lead to damage.

When shooting in snowy conditions, employing a lens hood is beneficial. It helps prevent issues caused by falling or blowing snow on the front element of the lens, ensuring clearer and unobstructed shots.

Hand Warmers

 There are two types of hand warmers:

Electronic: They fit in your pocket and they charge by USB. I have tested them and they work great but do not last all night.

Chemical: They are easy to use and start warming the instant you open the package. You can keep some in your boots, gloves, and coat pockets.  I keep one stuffed in each glove or mitten.

Exposure

The camera tends to render snow as a neutral gray color, posing a potential issue. Mastering the skill of reading the histogram makes exposing snow correctly a straightforward task. Exercise caution to avoid overexposing your whites and losing crucial details.

Get Out Early

Winter landscape photography looks best with fresh snow on the branches. It is best to be out there before it melts or gets blown off the branches. You can add interest and color to snow shots simply by including a colorful object or two in your composition.

Safety

Take extra precautions. Let others know of your travel plans in event of an emergency. Bring emergency supplies with you on your adventures.

If You Hate the Cold

Fly to Florida. If you need a break from the cold you can’t beat Florida. It is warm and incredibly beautiful. The wildlife photography is incredible. Winter is the dry season in Florida. Since there is less water the wildlife concentrates into smaller areas which make it a wildlife photographer’s paradise.

Some of my favorite photo opportunities are during winter. Don’t let the cold keep you inside. Get out and enjoy.