Some of the most amazing places in the world to photograph are usually in some of the most hazardous places. While these places may not be necessarily hazardous to humans, elements such as heat and moisture can wreak havoc on camera and camera equipment. Whether you are going out to film nature or storing camera gear between shoots, it is necessary to take certain precautions to make sure that your hard-earned investment is safe and protected.
With proper knowledge, you can easily protect your camera gear while in the field. Following are five ways to prevent your camera gear from heat exposure:
- Know the Temperature Range That Your Camera Can Withstand
You should be aware of the temperature range that your camera is designed to operate in. This knowledge will prove to be useful when you are taking precautions to protect your camera from overheating as it will give you an indication of when the problems might arise. You should check the user manual of your camera to see what temperatures it can withstand.
2. Purchase an Insulated Camera Bag
Special insulated camera bags are available on the market that you can purchase to fight against both heat and moisture. If you cannot afford an insulated camera bag, then an insulated cooler will work as well. Another precaution you should take is handle the gear with care when moving it from one heat extreme to the other.
3. Minimize Sun Exposure with a Mini Umbrella
Shine or rain, a mini umbrella is your camera’s best friend and can really make a difference when it comes to protecting your camera gear from heat exposure. If you don’t have an assistant with you to hold the umbrella, then you should mount it to a tripod with a hot shoe. You can purchase umbrella of any size as well as camera umbrella holder on Amazon.
4. When Required, Leave the Camera Under the Seat or in the Truck of Your Vehicle
If you have to leave your camera in your vehicle, then it is recommended that you place it under the seat or in the trunk of the vehicle. While it may not be the best way to protect your camera/camera gear from heat exposure, it’s better than leaving it in the main part of the vehicle where temperatures can become really intense. If possible, leave the windows open to allow for some ventilation and place the camera equipment in an insulated camera bag or cooler or wrap it in light colored fabric.
5. Keep the Lens Cap on When the Camera is Not in Use
This will help protect your camera lens from overheating as it will prevent direct exposure to sunlight. You should also wrap the camera in light-colored beach towel or other similar fabric when it’s not in use.
Shooting wildlife and nature can be a rewarding experience, but you should always take the necessary precautions to keep your camera and camera gear safe. Knowing what to bring along when going out to film nature as well as understanding the risks involved will save you a lot of money in the long run.