In my last blog I shared my resolution for 2008—-take more winter action shots. I am a whimp when it comes to cold weather and as such I often miss Kodak moments of my daughter frolicking in the snow and ice. That’s my New Year’s resolution. However, I am mindful that not everyone lives in a place where it snows and therefore some of the same incentives don’t apply. But, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t incorporate more adventure photography into your daily or monthly shooting regime.
When out in nature you will inevitably come across situations that requires special strategy for shooting. Obviously, safety should be your first priority. You should always determine if there are environmental hazards that might pose a danger to yourself and your equipment. No photo is worth putting yourself in harm’s way.
In my last blog I went through some tips to consider if you plan to shoot a friend on the ski slopes, but what about if you want to capture some frame worthy shots on a hiking or biking trip? In those cases the weight of your equipment should be your chief concern. Before you set out on your adventure evaluate what camera equipment you want to bring and anticipate the photos you are most determined to capture.
Access to your equipment is another key factor to consider in adventure photography. You don’t want to be digging around in your backpack when you spot a rare bird species on your hiking trip. Strapping your camera to the top of your hydration pack or hip pack will give you adequate access. If you are out on a less strenuous hike you could carry your camera around your neck. Again, having immediate access to your equipment will help you capture fleeting moments such as when the sun is hitting a spider web at just the right angle or fog is lifting over a desolate swamp.
If you are shooting in the desert, you will have to take special care to keep sand out of your camera. I have found success by packing my lenses and my camera individually in Ziploc bags. Also, timing is everything. Avoid changing lenses or opening the back of your camera when the wind is whipping hard enough to get sand lodged in your equipment.
Related Articles:
Taking Your Camera Outside During the Winter
Preparing for a Winter Photo Shoot
Top Cameras To Take Leaf Peeping