Tag Archives: camera

More Ways You Can Protect Your Camera While on Vacation

In my previous blog I listed ways you could protect your camera while vacationing in a place with frigid temperatures. This blog is tailored to help those of you who are planning to take your camera to a tropical location. While the weather might be pleasant other elements could prove detrimental to your camera—-if you are not prepared. Before you head off on your island getaway consider purchasing a lens adapter and a skylight filter. Each provides added protection from the elements for both the lens barrel and the lens itself. Also, you’ll want to make sure your camera bag … Continue reading →

Protecting Your Camera While on Vacation

Spring break is in full swing here. Some of our friends flew to Colorado to get in some late season skiing (that was before we got 15 inches of fresh snow on Good Friday) while others headed to Florida to escape the winter blues. We just returned from Hawaii where my camera got a serious workout at the beach. Regardless of where you vacation this year it is important to remember some basic tips to ensure your camera doesn’t become a causality while you’re away from home. COLD CLIMATES If your family enjoys tearing though fresh powder in cold weather … Continue reading →

What to do if Your Camera Gets Wet

It’s a problem most photographers have deal with at one time or another. Whether it’s a minor splash while you are taking photos at the beach or a major soaking when you get caught off guard by a freak summer thunderstorm at some point your camera will come in contact with water. Sure, there are a number of ways you can protect your camera from being drenched, including using a waterproof camera case or covering it with a plastic bag. (You can cut a hole in the front of the bag where the lens protrudes, place the bag around the … Continue reading →

Photography Week in Review for March 16-22, 2008

Whether you are planning your family’s spring vacation or getting a jumpstart on your annual summer trip this blog will come in very handy. This week I covered what you need to know prior to taking your camera on an airplane. From film and airport security screening areas to tips on protecting your camera from drastic temperature changes, here’s a recap of what you might have missed: March 17th—–Why You Should Never Pack Unused Film in Your Suitcase. It’s a lesson I almost found out the hard way during my recent trip to Hawaii and I tell you all about … Continue reading →

Why Camera Buffs Should Invest in Silica Gel

If you expose your camera to a variety of different elements then you probably have some silica gel in your home. Silica gel acts as a shield of dry air in an enclosed storage area such as a camera bag. It is a blue colored “desiccant” that adsorbs moisture and condensation. You can tell if it is working because it will change color from blue to white or pink. The color change indicates that the gel has absorbed the maximum amount of moisture. The beauty of silica gel is that even when it has absorbed the maximum amount of moisture … Continue reading →

Your Camera and the Elements

Parts of our state just received more than 15 inches of snow today. It’s a far cry from the 85-degree sunny, beautiful days we experienced while on vacation in Hawaii a couple of weeks ago. Luckily, my camera has endured the weather changes like a champ. (In fact, it has probably adjusted better than my body.) Hot, cold, snow, rain… whatever Mother Nature is doling out should never prevent you from capturing images with your camera (digital or otherwise). However, if you plan to venture out into the elements it is a good idea to take extra measures to protect … Continue reading →

Why You Shouldn’t Have Your Film Go Through Airport X-Ray Machines

In my previous blog I reminded you of the TSA’s rule, which prohibits travelers from packing unused rolls of film in checked luggage. The airport’s sophisticated, high intensity x-ray machines used to screen checked bags have been proven to destroy unused rolls of film. However, the TSA maintains film (both used and unused) can safely be screened in x-ray machines used for carry-on bags. But camera experts disagree. They recommend travelers have all their film hand inspected by airport security personnel. TSA agents are schooled to inform passengers that the x-rays used to screen carry-on bags will not damage or … Continue reading →

Rules to Remember Before Taking Your Camera on an Airplane

Yesterday I blogged about how a TSA agent spared me from destroying unused rolls of films I inadvertently packed in my checked in luggage during a recent trip. Today I thought it would be helpful to review the rules airlines have in place in regards to flying with photo equipment. Here’s what you need to know before you take your camera on your next flight: YES. You can take your camera on the airplane, though I would recommend packing it in your carry-on bag rather than in your checked suitcase given the number of bags the airlines’ loses each year. … Continue reading →

Why You Should Never Pack Unused Film in Your Suitcase

It’s a lesson I almost found out the hard way. Yes, the rule is posted in bold letters on the security placards to the right of the airline’s check-in desks, but I don’t typically travel with film (you might not either if you shoot with a digital camera). However, during my most recent trip home to Hawaii I brought along my favorite camera and had a few spare rolls of film packed in my suitcase. That’s a major no-no, according to the TSA agent who was in the process of lifting my checked bag onto the x-ray machine when she … Continue reading →

Do You Hesitate to Ask Others to Take Your Picture?

How many times has this happened to you: You and your family are visiting a picturesque vacation spot and you want a group shot of the entire clan, only you forgot to pack your tripod and there isn’t anywhere for you to place your camera and use the self-timer feature. You want to ask a fellow visitor to snap a shot of your entire brood, but others in your group resist because they don’t want to “bother” a stranger to take the photo. What do you do? I’ve found myself in this type situation on many occasions and depending who … Continue reading →