Winter Wildlife Photography Technique

[Steven Gourlay]

After my trip to Lewis i will be deffo getting a set of gloves, my hands were freezing holding the 400mm lens.

[Steven Gourlay]

I ended up going for the Garlands Cap Camo Photographers Glove Mittens. The reason i went for these is they are cheap, keep your fingers warm in the mitts easy access to controls as they can be fingerless. I really did struggle in the Isle of Lewis to hold the lens as it was making my hands numb and uncomfortable. The only thing is they are not waterproof just to keep the cold away.

[Steven Gourlay]

Glad i got the gloves now its going to be -8 up here.

[Steven Gourlay]

You can see some of my recent shots in the gallery, they have a very cold fell about them -2.5 most of them were taken in and my cameras operated fine (Canon 400D - Canon 5D). I ended up taking layers of clothing off as i was walking about a lot but when standing or crouching the layers are required.

PS

Just be careful if you are near lochs or lakes whatever part of the country you are in as they can be very dangerous as you cannot always see what you are standing on.

[Rob Greenhill]

Bring it on!!!!!!!
Just dress for the weather. I normally wear a set of nato issue sleeka jkt/trs combo,available from army surplus,warm socks,insulated boots/thermal footbeds, hat/gloves. Toasti warm.Stayed out for 8hrs a couple of weeks ago at -5 oc,whilst sitting down.

A must have is a good thermos, insulated mug, and a wide mouth food flask. You cannot believe the difference this makes. Soups/stews are ideal,but rice pudding/ apple crumble and custard can make you feel ever so smug and warm.

Also keep your gear warm, bubble wrap is good,especially around the battery area, as is thin karrimat, especially around long lenses.
heat packs can also be useful to extend battery life. I've used my gear at -10 to -20 oc with little problems.

Rob

www.flickr.com/photos/robaurdu/

[Steven Gourlay]

-20 ouch thats got to hurt a little. Good idea with the bubble wrap for the camera gear, never thought about that before. -7 is the coldest i have been out in, catches your breath pretty quick.

[Rob Greenhill]

Steven, its really not that bad once you get your head around it.All you need is a damn good bag , a decent tent,and a thick thermarest.Sorted !
Assuming the rest of your gear is up to the mark then all should be ok!!!
It does kinda shread your lungs though,especially at 20.000ft.