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Photo Tip...Photographing (and singing) In the Rain 

 

While April showers bring May flowers, they also bring something special - the  ability to catch nature in times both turbulent and tame. For those photographers who enjoy exploring the outdoors when they are less predictable, a good rain sprinkle or even thunderstorm can provide inspiration unmatched in calmer climates. For example, imagine the images you can capture of children playing in the rain or how your favorite pond or park is transformed under the influence of a storm. These images are sure to be a standout in your picture library.

 

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your water wonderland:

 

Get the Right Gear: Preparation is particularly important when combining photography and the elements, especially rain. A few items to keep in your gear bag or even the trunk of your car include: an umbrella, a rain jacket, towel, plastic bag and a rain cover for your camera. Yes, your camera needs a rain jacket! You'll want to protect your delicate electronics from moisture. Fortunately, the ProMaster Rain Jacket is versatile for many camera styles and is budget friendly to boot at only $29.99.

 

Find Your Shelter Shooting Spot: If the weather is particularly unpredictable, you may be relegated to photographing from a gazebo or even while sitting in your car. You'll want to make sure your gear is protected so find a safe haven to call home base. Being positioned from a confined space may be a positive thing because it requires the ability to think 'in the box.' How can you explore the environment from your particular vantage point? How many viewpoints can you unearth from your perch?

 

Remember Movement: Rain, in addition to being a force of nature, is a force of movement. The ability to capture rain in mysterious motion means that special attention should be paid to shutter speed. If you want to stop motion and freeze the drops in sharp focus, you'll need a higher shutter speed. If you'd prefer to show rain in motion and blurred, select a slower shutter speed. Adjusting your settings to analyze different effects can be fun and informative - learning how various shutter speeds impacts your photography is an important skill that will serve you well in any weather condition.

 

Combine Rain and Light: If your rain shower takes place while the sun is still in play, consider shooting the rain from a backlit position. This technique may require you to venture out in the weather, so make sure you and your gear are protected first. That said, shooting from a backlit position can open a plethora of new effects and the lighting source can be a streetlight, the sun breaking through the clouds or any light source that can provide contrast to the falling raindrops.

 

While some may shy away from photographing in the rain, others realize that getting out in the elements can be a good thing! 

 

Want more photo tips? Come to one of our Digital Photography classes.  

 

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April Special (it is a Super one!!!)


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