Keeping your camera kit dry
I’m going to be photographing some local rugby matches on a monthly basis throughout the year and, while my camera and kit seem watertight in light drizzly conditions, I’m worried about it if the weather gets worse. Do you have any advice on which waterproof kits to look for? I need something to cover my long Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II lens. Michael Hensby
Keeping your kit protected in bad weather conditions is a great idea, especially if you are regularly going to be in unpredictable conditions. We’ve had a look around and we’ve found a range of options for you.
Vanguard’s Alta camera Rain Cover comes in a range of sizes and simply wraps around the end of your lens and hangs over the lens and camera body. A large Alta cover from Amazon costs under £26.
The Storm Jacket SLR PRO Large in black comes in at £52 from WEX or the Wildlife Watching All-In-One Reversible Camera and Lens Cover Size 2.5 Advantage retails from the same company at a little over £60.
Another option to keep your lens protected is to purchase a lens coat. The one for a Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II, the Realtree Advantage Max4 HD, retails around £92. The advantage of a lens coat is that you can access your lens far easier and adjust the settings. This brand is marketed at wildlife and sports photographers who often face the elements.
Although there are many budget options around, we recommend that if you are going to be using it on a regular basis, purchase a product of better quality and avoid anything too cheap and badly made.
If you shoot regularly, don’t be tempted by budget options when it comes to protecting your kit