As a Vancouver landscape photography, I’ve faced countless rain-soaked days in the great outdoors. Rain can bring incredible mood and depth to photos, especially here in the Pacific Northwest, but it also comes with a challenge: keeping your camera and lenses dry. Even with a weather-sealed camera like my Canon R5 and EF lenses, I rely on a few key tools to ensure my gear stays safe and functional in wet conditions. Here’s how you can protect your equipment and make the most of rainy-day photography.
Why Rain Protection Matters
Rain can wreak havoc on even the toughest camera gear. Water droplets can seep into cracks, damaging internal components or causing issues like fogging and mold in lenses. While weather-sealing offers some protection, it’s not a guarantee, especially during extended exposure. Using the right rain gear ensures you’re free to focus on creativity without risking your equipment.
Rainy-Day Essentials for Photographers
Rain Covers for Cameras and Lenses
What They Are: Rain covers are lightweight, waterproof shields that wrap around your camera and lens, offering full protection from the elements.
Why They Work: They allow access to controls and screens while keeping water away from your gear. I use covers from brands like Think Tank or LensCoat, which fit snugly around my Canon R5 and various lenses.
Pro Tip: Always carry at least one in your bag—they’re compact and easy to pack.
Lens Hoods
What They Do: Lens hoods extend the front of your lens, shielding it from raindrops.
Why They’re Essential: A hood reduces the need to clean water spots from the lens, minimizing interruptions during a shoot.
Weather-Sealed Camera Bags
Why They Matter: Protecting your backup gear, batteries, and memory cards is just as important as safeguarding your main setup.
What to Look For: Opt for bags with waterproof zippers or built-in rain covers. My backpack includes a detachable rain cover that ensures the contents stay dry even in a downpour.
Microfiber Cloths and Lens Wipes
Why You Need Them: Even with a lens hood and cover, water can find its way onto your glass. I always carry multiple microfiber cloths in waterproof pouches to clean my lenses mid-shoot.
Silica Gel Packs
Why They Help: Moisture can linger in your bag or gear after a wet outing, increasing the risk of mold or condensation. Silica gel packs absorb residual moisture, keeping your camera and lenses safe.
This is a link to the rain cover that I use, its inexpensive and very practical. I've also included a link for the silica gel packs
Practical Tips for Shooting in the Rain
Position Your Camera Wisely
When setting up, angle your camera away from the wind to minimize direct rain contact.
Be Mindful of Tripod Placement
Rain can make the ground slippery and unstable. Ensure your tripod is securely planted to prevent accidents.
Dry Your Gear Immediately After Use
Gently wipe down your camera, lenses, and accessories with a clean microfiber cloth.
Allow everything to air-dry fully before placing it back in your bag or storage.
My Setup for Rainy Days
I trust my Canon R5 for its robust weather-sealing, but I always pair it with protective gear to avoid unnecessary risks. For example:
Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L: My go-to lens for dramatic landscapes, protected with a rain cover and lens hood.
Microfiber Cloths: Kept close for quick cleaning during shoots.
Weather-Sealed Backpack: Essential for safeguarding spare lenses and accessories
These tools allow me to continue capturing stunning shots, even during the heaviest rainfall.
Find Beauty in the Rain
Rainy conditions offer a unique opportunity to create atmospheric, moody, and reflective images. By preparing your gear with the right equipment and following these simple tips, you can embrace the rain without worry.
Have a favorite rain-related photography story or a must-have piece of gear? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experiences!
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