"One, Two, Three…Exxxcellent": Barry’s guide to "cold" photography.

Jan 11, 2010

Many past AJers have had the pleasure of Barry Asman’s company on one or more of their trips. While not a full time Amazing Journeys host, Barry’s place on a tour means not only another friendly & helpful face, but also the added benefit of photography genius to help everyone enhance their valuable vacation memories. From “Barry’s Photo Tips” at our group events, to his now famously coined “one…two…three…EXXXCELLENT!”….to the DVD slide show he creates for the group on the fly during the trip and then generously fine tuning it at home to send as a memento to each passengers, Barry has shared his passion of picture taking with thousands of Amazing Journeyers over the years.

Photography on this trip (or in any cold environment) will present some interesting challenges as they pertain to the climate and temperature. Luckily we will be experiencing the Antarctic Summer and will be enjoying their “warm season” with temperatures likely in the 20°s and 30°s (Fahrenheit). Warm in this case is strictly in comparison to the winter temperatures of -40°F.

Preparing for taking pictures in Antarctica can be divided into two categories: 1) taking care of your camera and 2) taking care of yourself.

Most importantly-and most basic-is to take care of yourself. This means staying warm. How you personally choose to to that I’ll leave this to your own determination, however, the one thing that I do want to address is the relevance of keeping your hands warm. As you would expect, gloves are the key. You should plan bring a pair of regular warm gloves normally used in a winter climate, as well as a special pair of “fingerless” gloves so that you’ll have dexterity to operate a camera in the cold. There are several types of these fingerless gloves to use. My suggestion is to go to a sporting goods store (or on line) and head to the hunting section. Here is an example: http://www.rei.com/product/305045 .

Now, let’s talk photography! There are two issues that make photography in the cold interesting; power and water. First let’s talk about power (batteries). The thing to remember is that, in cold temperatures, battery power goes down quickly. There is an easy solution to this; carry extra batteries. If you camera uses regular batteries, just pop a couple of extra sets in your coat close to your body (to keep them warm). When the set in your camera gets cold and stops working, just change them out for a “body warmed” set. The cold set, meanwhile, will come alive when warmed up again. If your camera takes only proprietary rechargeable batteries, go to the camera store (or order online) a second battery. Keep one warm while you shoot with the other; then just swap them out. Easy enough!

Now let’s talk about water, two kinds: Ocean Spray and Condensation.

Ocean Spray: Since we will be getting to shore by Zodiac rubber boats, there is the chance that you, and therefore your camera, may get wet. The solution is to transport it to shore in a waterproof bag. While a sealable baggy may be adequate, I prefer a “Dry Bag” to really protect my camera (here is the kind I have: http://www.rei.com/product/784157 ). The size you get depends on your camera size.

Condensation. If you’ve been outside for a while in the cold air, then go inside the warm house; what’s the first thing that happens? Your glasses fog up. This occurs when your cold glasses hit the warm air. The same thing will happen to your camera. If you take your Antarctic cold camera onto the warm ship, the camera will instantly form condensation (water droplets) not only on the camera, but also inside the camera. Remember, water and electronics are not happy together, i.e. your camera’s guts will fry.

Preventing condensation on your camera is very important and not too difficult. Here’s the solution: While your camera is still Antarctic cold, put it in a sealable plastic bag, and seal it tightly. Leave it in the sealed bag until, once back onboard the ship, the camera slowly warms back up to room temperature. Problem solved! (Going from warm to cold should not be a problem, only cold to warm.) I’m actually going to throw a couple of those Silica Gel desiccant packs (the kind that comes with your new shoes to keep them dry) in my camera bag and the plastic bag for added protection.

Now, some of the above advice may be overkill. It’s not going to be THAT cold, but you can never be too prepared.

My final words of wisdom: Take plenty of memory cards and plenty of batteries and appropriately sized sealable baggies (see above)

If you’re going to get a new camera for the trip, get it now and learn how to use it now. Don’t wait to open the box on the plane on the way! Practice using your camera and all of its settings. Being familiar with your camera will pay off in improved pictures.

I look forward to seeing everyone soon. Happy shooting!