Camera in the cold?

[Lilyhoney]

I am concerned about taking my new camera out into the cold. I worry about the temperature change creating condensation.

Any personal or scientific information would be much appreciated. Thank you.


Lilyhoney

[NV Whino]

1. I think BlueinAK would be the expert on this

She photographing the Ididerod right now, but she checks in frequently.

Personally, I keep my camera in my parka, taking it out to quickly snap a pic. Battery life is a concern. Always carry extra batteries in a warm place.

[ManiacJoe]

2. While out in the cold, you main problem is battery power.

Keep a spare inside your coat and you should be fine.

Condensation is definitely a problem when coming back inside. Seal your camera in a plastic bag, suck out all the air. The condensation will appear on the bag, not the camera. Wait a few hours.

Alternatively, you can place the camera in your zipped up camera bag, then transfer the bag in stages of warmth. Like from the outside to a low-heated garage to the house. This is the way I normally do it.

[marble falls]

3. Some photographers carry spare batteries under their armpits when its bery cold.

[regnaD kciN]

4. Your main concern about condensation...

...should arise when you take your camera back inside, not while it's out in the cold.

It is generally recommended that you bring along a large plastic garbage bag, and put your camera bag and all your equipment in it while you are still outdoors. Tie the garbage bag tightly shut, then bring the whole thing inside, and don't open it for several hours. The plastic bag will prevent moisture from reaching your equipment while it warms back up to room temperature.

[groundloop]

5. I've never had any problems.... actually only had issues in the summer

The only problems with camera usage in cold weather are shortened battery life and cold fingers. I take my Canon DSLR out in the cold a lot with no issues, and while I agree that bagging the camera before coming back in isn't a bad idea I don't do it and have never had any condensation. The thing is, it's not the change in temperature that will cause condensation but rather a cold surface being in contact with humid air that has a higher dew-point. If, for instance, you took your cold camera into a bathroom when the shower was running you'd get condensation. But air inside most houses is pretty dry in the winter.

I've only had issues in the summer when I take my camera from inside my air conditioned house (75 degrees or so) out into the humid evening when it's 90 degrees and 80 or 90 percent humidity. It takes just a few seconds to get condensation all over the lens, so I have to wipe it off with a lens wipe just before taking a photo, and normally it's just too much trouble so I give up. Even then there's been no issue with the camera itself, just the surface of the front lens element.

[Blue_In_AK]

6. I don't have much to add here.

When I'm in Nome and going in and out a lot, I stick the camera in a bag during the transition, especially from outside coming in. I always put the lens cap on which seems to help.

[Lilyhoney]

7. Thanks everyone!

My concerns were about bringing the camera into the warm house after being out in the cold here in northern Illinois.

I have a new Canon DLSR and don't want to damage it.

I had not thought about the steamy shower. I have a small child and love bathroom shots. Although I have not used this camera in there yet. I usually use my phone since it is handy.

A friend mentioned the plastic bag but I guess I posted here for more assurance.

I only have one battery so no spare to keep warm. Thanks. I had no idea the battery life would be less in the cold.

Again thank you for your help. I hope to participate in this forum and hope to get to know you all better.

I always vote in the photo contest and really enjoy seeing everyone's work.

Lilyhoney