Don't Let Your Camera Hibernate Over Winter

Winter here in Minnesota can be long and dreary. I often struggle with finding a reason to pickup the camera during these cold months. Even though it can be beautiful, I find it difficult to get excited about going out into the cold, wet weather. I try to brainstorm a list of subjects I can still photograph through this long season to keep my creative juices flowing, and thought I would share some in case you struggle with this as well.

• Atmosphere
  • fog
  • snow
• Abstract ice formations
• Waterfalls/rapids
  • before they freeze or after partially frozen
• Flowers Indoors
  • conservatory
  • makeshift studio in home
• Macro indoors
• Family fun outdoors or holidays
• Macro snowflakes/ice
• Animals in the snowy landscape
  • use your car as a blind to stay warm
  • some birds stay for the winter (such as cardinals) and you can easily photograph them in your backyard. Again you can use your car/blind to stay warmer.

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Remember to keep yourself warm and dry, as well as your camera. Several layers of clothes, hand/feet warmers, and thin gloves with touchscreen tips for shooting (with a warmer pair over to keep your fingers warm when not using your camera) will help you stay comfortable. For your camera use a rain cover to keep it dry, carry extra batteries close to your body since they will drain quickly, and stow your camera in a sealable plastic bag or camera bag before taking it indoors (including a warm vehicle) to avoid condensation, and give it time to warm to room temperature before removing it.