Winter Rain Photography (hands free umbrella solutions)

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joeb359

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Hello all, first time poster here

im really keen on shooting some moody winter/rain photography this year but obviously reluctant because of my camera gear getting too wet etc

i was just wondering if anyone out there has invested in a hands free umbrella solution?

ive tried various things like the weather 'bag' for cameras where u can put your arms through these holes to protect your camera - not very good
had a umbrella attached to a tripod which wasnt food as the wind just blew it lol

im thinking now perhaps a large umbrella somehow attached to my jacket or backpack that would cover me and the camera when im walking along

anyone ever tried these kind of solutions?

thanks!
Joe
 
It may help if you say what camera(s) you are using.
 
Optech rain sleeve or similar?
 
I've found these ones to work quite well

Op/Tech Rainsleeve - Twin Pack: Amazon.co.uk: Camera & Photo

Mainly because the whole thing is see through so you can see where all the switches on the lens and camera are, a lot less faf that the more bulky covers (which I also own)... be aware though, if it's windy they fly! My last one was last seen at Durdle Door heading towards Belgium at great speed and height!

Or if you fancied looking a bit odd...

Aoneky Windproof Head Umbrella Hat –36'' Large Adults Folding Brolly Hat with Hands free Headband for Women & Man Golf, Fishing, Gardening, Photography, Walking - Fancy Dress Funny/Joke Gift: Amazon.co.uk: Sports & Outdoors
 
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The problem with umbrellas are that they are useless for windy conditions. Not only won't they keep your camera dry, they become a liability, unless you have a dedicated friend to help (how I wish I had one of those!). I use a rain cover too, although I agree they aren't perfect either. Or there is always my GoPro....
 
hi all, thank you for the replies

camera = sony a7r3

ive tried the rain sleeves and i guess they do the job when youre stationary but im looking to keep myself covered and the camera whilst walking

ive tried holding the umbrella with one hand but some of my lenses can be quite heavy which then didnt work when trying to balance things:)

i know umbrellas do have their downsides but just find that its probably the best option at the moment to at least try

perhaps something like an umbrella hook for my backpack, or hook somewhere onto my jacket via some kind of brace or harness
 
If an umbrella works for you, how about a clamp on the umbrella with a tripod screw attached? Can’t think it would work but .... in any case an umbrella only only protects from vertical rain if you have to keep it vertical. I think the only answer to what you want is a ’waterproof‘ camera :(.
 
Get a cape. Covers your body and equipment when walking.
 
keety said:
or lookup pushchair sunshade/umbrellas, they tend to come with a clamp
Click to expand...

That's what I have. But it's for woodland outings where it's not too windy for that to be an issue anyway.....

I do also keep clear shower caps in my bag but again, that's for when the camera is already on the tripod.....

I don't tend to actually walk in the rain without the camera in the bag.
 
joeb359 said:
hi all, thank you for the replies

camera = sony a7r3

ive tried the rain sleeves and i guess they do the job when youre stationary but im looking to keep myself covered and the camera whilst walking

ive tried holding the umbrella with one hand but some of my lenses can be quite heavy which then didnt work when trying to balance things:)

i know umbrellas do have their downsides but just find that its probably the best option at the moment to at least try

perhaps something like an umbrella hook for my backpack, or hook somewhere onto my jacket via some kind of brace or harness
Click to expand...


I have the Sony a7Riii and Sony a7Riv - they get wet every almost every time I go out shooting wildlife - no big deal really :)

If its pouring down I use my Wildlife supplies cover - over the body and a 200-600mm lens- works fine

Les :)
 
Your over thinking it.... I stick a brolly down the front of my coat and jumper.. fasten coat up tight (zip) and hands free... try it :) Obviously not good in windy condituions but thats true for any brolly used in any way.... other than that a decent rain cover and a big coat...

end of day its raining.. prepare to get wet :)
 
KIPAX said:
Your over thinking it.... I stick a brolly down the front of my coat and jumper.. fasten coat up tight (zip) and hands free... try it :) Obviously not good in windy condituions but thats true for any brolly used in any way.... other than that a decent rain cover and a big coat...

end of day its raining.. prepare to get wet :)
Click to expand...
I think a selfie is required here! Seems risky to me because it impairs your mobility :(. Ever had it shut on you while wearing it? :) :exit:
 
sphexx said:
I think a selfie is required here! Seems risky to me because it impairs your mobility :(. Ever had it shut on you while wearing it? :) :exit:
Click to expand...


nope and the simple answer is... try it... just go in the garden and walk round wiht it.. see what happenes :)
 
I've never found the need for an umbrella in the 50 years I've been taking pictures. All you need is a little native cunning...

Heavy rain on road surface G2 P1030099.JPG
 
KIPAX said:
nope and the simple answer is... try it... just go in the garden and walk round wiht it.. see what happenes :)
Click to expand...
It wouldn’t work in my garden, the brolly would be caught by branches etc :).
 
The Fuji X100 * leaves one hand free, which can then hold the umbrella. ;)

My new X100V is even weather sealed (with a filter on the front) but I'm not.
 
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