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Quick Tip–Shooting in the Rain by Tara with BONUS WingMan footage!

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Spring shooting means taking a few extra precautions for sudden downpours and strong winds but the results are often well worth it. Having a plastic bag or a rain jacket like we mentioned a couple of weeks ago to shield your camera is a must, but if you find yourself inspired in the rain without anything to shield you and your equipment, you have another option.

ProMaster SLR Foul Weather Jacket

Instead of trekking your gear out in the rain and taking chances with it getting damaged, consider staying in the car. Yes, that’s right, just roll down the window and shoot from the interior. Of course, wind will play a factor but if it isn’t blowing, you should be able to fit in a few shots. You can experiment from different windows in the car and even pop the back window if you’re driving an SUV or a van. Use your judgment, of course, but you may find that this method allows you to still capture the rainfall without being in the middle of it!  There are car window mounts available as well to keep you stable. Keep in mind that if your camera doesn’t clearly state it is waterproof; it more than likely hates the rain. Check out the Mini Fat Gecko in this video Paul built a little while ago for securing cameras to glass! He has sold these window mounts to those crazy storm chasing people hunting tornados!

Not only are there waterproof cameras out there for still shots, but for video as well. Check out the Delkin Wingman HD complete with full 1080p HD video and 8 mp still photos. It has a standard 1/4 X 20 tripod attachment for unlimited mounting options. Also comes with the ability to use any mount, bracket or device built for standard cameras and camcorders. In addition to the included helmet mount, vented helmet mount and bar mount, the WingmanHD is compatible with the full line of Fat Gecko Camera Mounts and accessories.

Check out the footage from this video that Paul took with the Wingman mounted on his scooter. This camera is an action camera like the GoPro series, but with a couple of huge advantages. It has a rechargeable lithium battery instead of AAAs and an LCD screen!

Note how darn durable it is even in light of human failure! He skipped it down the street downtown! (It wasn’t intentional Joe!)

Here is some, well let’s just say BETTER footage?  Hahaha!

Happy Shooting!

Tara

When Hard Light is Helpful

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Guest Post from Promaster

The term ‘hard light’ refers to the bright, direct light the daytime sun provides, particularly between the hours of noon and early afternoon. While we’re often counseled–with good reason–to shy away from shooting in hard light, there are some instances that would benefit from the intensity of this form of available light.

Showcasing Textures: Hard light can be very effective in enhancing textures in an image. Whether it’s the splintered detail in an old wooden fence or the intricate pattern in an article of clothing, hard light can become beneficial in making sure these details are brought to the forefront. If you’re looking to photograph an object–be it a commercial project or a personal one–learning to use hard light to enhance an object’s details is a skill that can add new dimension to your work.

Capturing Creative Contrast: Hard light creates intense shadows and using those shadows as part of your image is yet another way that this form of illumination can add rather than detract from your images. Shadows from tree branches and other tall objects can throw unique designs onto other surfaces, creating a compelling element.

Bring on the Backlighting: The term ‘backlight’ refers to lighting an image from behind, which is a popular technique in photography. Hard light can illuminate the lines and edges of the subject. This technique can be used in a variety of situations ranging from human interest to nature photography. Consider using a lens hood during these sessions to battle the potential complication of flare intruding on your images. Check our line of quality lens hoods here:
Lens Hoods

With backlighting situations, there is also a risk of underexposure so exposure compensation adjustments may be necessary. An adjustment of one to two stops should help combat the camera’s meter being overwhelmed by the bright background.