7 Tips for Shooting in Cold Weather

Shooting in cold and snowy weather is a whole different ball game.  If you haven't done it before, and even if you have, here are some tips that can help you have more successful cold weather shoots.

#1:  Bundle up more than you normally would.  As a photographer you will be standing in one spot or crouching in the snow, and the lack of movement will make you colder than the athletes you are shooting.  Bundle up!

#2:  There are several gloves that are made specifically for photographers.  POW Gloves makes some very cool products including the TransFilmer Glove and the Photog Glove.  Swany toaster mittens are a great option as well because they have a liner built in and you can unzip the side to bring your fingers out to shoot while keeping them in the liner for warmth.  If you already have gloves you like for other uses, purchase a pair of liners to wear under them and shoot with.

#3:  Zip up your pack between shots when it's snowing, or athletes may ski by and blow snow into the pack.  Even if you don't think theres a chance…

#4:  When it's really cold, avoid using breath on the lens for cleaning.  Your breath will freeze on the glass and you'll need to warm it up in your jacket to wipe off all moisture before it freezes again.

#5:  Try to avoid taking your camera out when you go indoors for a break.  The heat will cause condensation to build up on the cold lens.

#6:  Use a weather sealed backpack.  If you get a ton of snow on your bag and it isn't weather sealed, when you take it inside, or shoot in the sun, the moisture can soak through to your gear.  Purchase something that's comfortable to carry as well so you don't hurt your back shooting.

#7:  HOLD YOUR BREATH FOR A FEW SECONDS BEFORE THE SHOT!  As weird as this sounds, we've had multiple shots ruined by breath.  It creates a soft halo on the image and can make the image look terrible.  Hold your breath for a bit and the image will come out much better.  You can also try breathing out the side of your mouth but it depends on which way the wind is blowing.

This article is part of the snowboarding and skiing photography series on APS.  Below are more articles in the series:

10 Basic Tips for Successful Skiing and Snowboarding Photography
10 Tips for Shooting Night Skiing Photos
Capturing Classic Powder Shots
Shooting Cliffs: Snowboarding and Skiing Photography
Shooting Park:  Snowboarding and Skiing Photography
Composition Basics – Snowboarding and Skiing Photography

About Connor Walberg

At only 25 years old, Connor has been published in many major international publications and is a signed Getty photographer. His writing and photos have been published in Photoshop User and Light It Magazines, amongst many others. He believes that if you work at what you love, you'll be able to make a great living. Connor currently resides in Edwards, CO with his wife, Kelly, and dog Tucker. You can view his portfolio at www.cnwphoto.com

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