Braving the Elements: Tips for Capturing Stunning Photos in Bad Weather

Hey everyone! Dave Williams here, and today we'll speak about one of my favourite subjects: taking pictures in inclement weather.

A photographer on a mountain in the Faroe islands, high above a fjord, in bad weather

Why would anyone want to go outside and shoot in the rain or snow, you might be asking. The simple answer, my friends, is that inclement weather may present some of the most extraordinary and beautiful photographic chances you'll ever come upon. We’ll journey to the Faroe Islands for this blog post.

A seascape in the Faroe Islands during golden hour, after bad weather

Let's first discuss how to protect your camera from the elements before we go any further. As your camera is your baby, you want to ensure that it is kept secure and dry. Spend money on a high-quality rain cover initially. They have been uniquely made to keep your camera safe from rain, snow, and other types of precipitation while still enabling you to shoot without any restrictions. There is basically no reason not to have one since they are also not prohibitively priced.

Another suggestion is to have sachets of silica gel in your camera bag. These little sachets are excellent at collecting moisture and keeping it away from your camera, lens, and other equipment. These are often available online or at your neighbourhood camera shop. Let's now discuss the benefits of poor weather for photography. It may first and foremost greatly enhance the drama and mood of your photographs. A dull sight may become extremely magnificent on a rainy day because to the light reflections off the wet surfaces.

Photographer in red jacket with a camera on a tripod, standing in the snow on the top of a mountain in the Faroe Islands

Snow may also have a similar impact since the white backdrop can evoke feelings of peace and tranquilly, especially when it is juxtaposed with an object that is vibrant and vivid.

Landscape of mountains and fjord in the Faroe islands

But, inclement weather may also present some interesting chances for action and sports photography. Consider taking pictures of snowboarders making their way down a mountain or surfers battling the waves during a storm. Thus, how do you shoot in adverse weather? Make sure you dress correctly first and foremost. Wearing layers and waterproof clothing will help you stay warm and dry.

Surfer riding a wave in Lofoten Islands Arctic Norway

Next, check sure the illumination settings on your camera are correct. For instance, you might need to change your ISO and aperture on a gloomy day to make up for the reduced light.

Let's discuss one additional item that might be really helpful while shooting in inclement weather: Vallerret gloves. With features like a flip-over thumb and forefinger, allowing me to use my iPhone and camera controls, and additional insulation for warmth, these gloves were created especially for photographers. You can still easily control your camera while keeping your hands warm and dry. They also come in a range of sizes and designs to fit your requirements and tastes. I like the Markhof Pro V3.

Dave Williams photographer wearing Vallerret photography gloves in the arctic

While shooting in terrible weather, it's also important to bear in mind that the ideal atmospheric circumstances sometimes occur just after bad weather. For instance, following a downpour, you can be rewarded to a stunning rainbow or mist rising from the earth. After a snowfall, you may have the opportunity to capture a stunning winter wonderland landscape, with fresh snow on the trees and ground. Hence, when a storm has passed, don't be scared to go outside and see what type of wonderful moments you can record.

Sunrise Golden Hour from the top of a mountain in the Faroe Islands

The ideal climatic circumstances frequently occur just after stormy weather, which is another thing to keep in mind when shooting in terrible weather. After a downpour, for instance, you can be rewarded to a stunning rainbow or mist rising from the ground. Following a snowstorm, you can get the chance to photograph a beautiful winter wonderland scene with new snow on the ground and trees. So, don't be hesitant to go outside after a storm has passed to see what type of amazing moments you may photograph.

Last but not least, keep in mind that when shooting in adverse weather, safety comes first. Never hesitate to call it a day and go inside if the situation is too scary or severe. Also, be mindful at all times.

A flock of geese near the church in Saksun, Faroe Islands

Finally, use patience and perseverance. As bad weather may be unpredictable, you might have to wait for the ideal opportunity to take the ideal picture. But I assure you that the work will be well worth it in the end. Finally, don't let terrible weather prevent you from going outside and shooting. It may really present some of the most beautiful and unusual photographic chances you'll ever come across with the appropriate planning and attitude. Take your raincoat and camera bag, and let's start shooting!

Much love
Dave

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Solo Travel in Winter: 5 Tips for Staying Safe

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The Importance of Camera Club Competitions and Photography Workshops