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While many
animals in the northern region hibernate during the winter, photographers
who do likewise miss a lot of good picture-taking opportunities! Here
are a few pointers to help you get some great photos this winter.
WINTER LIGHTING BENEFIT
Light from the sun isn't as flat in the winter as it is in the summer,
since the sun's path is now lower in the sky. This angled lighting adds
texture and shape so pictures are more interesting. Also, the sun rises
later and sunsets occur earlier, so shooting during the "magic hours"
at the beginning and the end of the day is more convenient than in the
summer.
SNOW AND EXPOSURE METERING
Metering systems are designed to record images as middle tones. If your
picture will include a substantial area of bright snow, you'll need to
change your exposure techniques. More exposure is needed so the snow will
appear white, not middle gray. Some cameras have a "snow and beach" auto
exposure mode for this purpose. On others, a backlight control increases
the exposure a set amount and will be beneficial. Metering off a mid-tone
area and locking the exposure or setting it manually will also give you
good results.
PROTECT YOURSELF
It's hard to have fun shooting pictures when you're chilled to the bone.
Even worse, very cold weather can be dangerous. Dress in layers, wear
a hat or cap since our heads lose a lot of heat and wear boots to keep
your feet warm and dry. Dress according to the weather conditions and
for your activity level. If you expect to be stationary for an extended
period of time, you'll need to dress much heavier than when active. Porter's
Photographer's Glove/Mitts (A-71 catalog, page 39, and the Online Store)
keep your hands warm and have flip-off mitt covers for your fingers so
you still have the dexterity you need for operating camera controls and
loading film.
PROTECT YOUR CAMERA FROM EXTREME
COLD
Every type of battery loses potency as the temperature drops, so be sure
to have a backup battery when venturing out. If your camera has the option
of accepting either alkaline or lithium batteries, choose lithiums because
they have better cold weather performance. Keep your camera (and thus
the battery) protected from the cold whenever possible by zipping it inside
your coat when not in use. Film can become brittle in very cold weather,
so this technique helps prevent the film from tearing. If your camera
has selectable motor drive speeds, use a slower motor speed to avoid film
damage.
MOISTURE AND CONDENSATION
When you bring a cold camera inside a warm building, moisture will condense
on it. This does no lasting harm, but the camera is out of commission
until it warms up and the moisture evaporates. It's best to let the equipment
warm up gradually by keeping it enclosed in your camera case. If you're
going to be inside for just an hour or so before resuming outdoor shooting,
leave the camera where it will stay cool, such as in the car or in a closed
camera bag. Avoid breathing on your camera when it's cold so you don't
have to wait for a fogged-over lens or viewfinder to clear.
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LET
US HEAR BACK FROM YOU!
We welcome your feedback. If you have any questions,
comments or suggestions,
e-mail us at pcsgeneralmail@porters.com.
Copyright 2003, Porter's Camera Store, Inc.
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