Technique: Photos and the Rain

Many photographers give up taking shots during inclement weather, and understandably, because they are concerned about their equipment. But you don't have to give up so easily. Keeping your camera and lenses safe is harder, yet not impossible:

• You can use an umbrella (a helper to hold it up is useful) or a tent to provide a protected spot and then shoot out of the protection. Before you start shooting, do check to see if wind is blowing the rain in toward what you think is the dry area.

A car can also act as a great portable shelter. The problem can be getting to the locations you want, which must be within reach of a road or parking area.

There is equipment - like specially designed heavy plastic bags - intended for using a camera in and around water, though not at any depth. Use one of the lighter weight ones not meant to work at any depth to save yourself money. You could also use a heavy garbage bag to help keep the water off.

You can also time things so you shoot right after the rain. This can be a great time for photos because of more intense colors and interesting reflections. I took the above photo one day when I'd gone into Boston early in the morning to meet a model who didn't show.