How to protect camera gears during monsoon – A must-read for all photographers.

Monsoon photographs are definitely one of the most challenging yet rewarding types of photographs. The monsoon is here and it’s time to start taking special care of your equipment. It is not a time to forget them and keep them under lock. Believe me, its one of the best times to use your cameras and get some amazing pictures.

Most photographers during the monsoon pack away their cameras in the closet. They fear the rain & prefer to play safe by not photographing at all during the monsoon. However, if you ask me monsoon presents a plethora of opportunities to photograph. If you follow some safety instructions & keep your equipment safe, you’ll return home with wonderful photographs during the monsoon.

I should mention as a preliminary note, however, that some cameras are more prone to problems from the rain than others, especially when it comes to endzone video.  Some cameras and lenses come with weather sealing built-in, which is an added protection from a minor amount of water splashing or raining on the camera. Even a small amount of water that sits in your camera or lens will almost assuredly mold.  When mold grows in a lens, it is the end of the lens.  Be careful!  Tip: One way to prevent mold from growing on lenses is to extend zoom lenses while they dry.

Without further adieu, I give you Five Inexpensive Ways to Protect Your Camera from Rain…

---

Keep a one-time use rain sleeve in your camera bag during monsoon

Monsoon photographs are definitely one of the most challenging yet rewarding types of photographs. The monsoon is here and it’s time to start taking special care of your equipment. It is not a time to forget them and keep them under lock. Believe me, its one of the best times to use your cameras and get some amazing pictures.

---

Use a Large Plastic Bag or Shower Cap

If you want to find a cheaper alternative than even the rain sleeve, you can also use a large gallon-size plastic bag as an impromptu rain sleeve in a pinch.  If you are traveling and need some protection from the rain, you can even use the shower cap that hotels include free in the bathroom.

---

Use an Umbrella

I know. Sometimes the easiest solution is right in front of you.  If you are shooting portraiture or some other type of photography where you are holding the camera, an umbrella would be impractical; however, if you are shooting a landscape or are using a tripod, an umbrella is likely the simplest solution.

Honestly, an umbrella is often better than even a rain sleeve because it keeps the front element on your lens from getting wet.

Not only is an umbrella a great way to keep the camera dry and protected, but it also is a perfect prop for shooting in the rain.  Consider including it in the photo!

---

Use Silica Gels

The Silica Gel pouches that you get with your electronic gear are also very useful. They are very good at absorbing moisture. The only thing that you need to watch out for is that the Silica gel once they have absorbed as much moisture as they can, turn color (quite literary) and once that happens, you need to re-heat them to make them usable again. As a general practice, keep a couple of silica gel pouches handy and in your camera bag.

---

Invest in a dry box

If you live in the tropics or where the humidity levels are always high, you should consider investing in a dry cabinet or dry box. Electronic dry boxes are fairly advanced, and can automatically control the humidity using sensors. Digi-cab is a brand commonly available in India and is highly spoken of. Some folks pack their gear in airtight boxes with silica gel inside. I think this method is ok for places like Bangalore which have lower humidity levels all through the year.

---

Use these tips and save your gear from moisture. For lighting tips, you can follow our other posts. Happy clicking!