Umbrella and Camera: Protecting Your Equipment While Shooting
Anyone wanting to photograph in the rain faces a practical problem: the camera needs protection from moisture, yet both hands must remain free to focus, press the shutter release and adjust the lens. An ordinary folding umbrella cannot be held while you operate the camera. The solution lies in choosing the right type of umbrella and using well-considered techniques that combine equipment protection with weather cover.
Walking Umbrella with Straight Handle for Shoulder and Neck
A walking umbrella with a straight wooden or plastic handle can be wedged between shoulder and neck, so that the umbrella stands at an angle above you. The handle rests on the shoulder, the canopy tilts slightly forward. This position leaves both hands free to hold and focus the camera. Make sure the handle is non-slip and the umbrella weighs no more than 400 to 500 grams, so it does not slide off your shoulder. A diameter of 100 to 110 centimetres is sufficient to keep upper body and camera dry.
Automatic Umbrella Opening with One Hand
If you are already holding the camera and rain suddenly starts, an automatic umbrella with a push button helps. You open it with one hand while the other secures the camera. Models with open-close automatic function can be closed just as quickly once you stand under a canopy or move into a building. For Men's umbrellas with automatic function, the closed length is usually 85 to 95 centimetres, opened they reach 105 to 115 centimetres span.
Keep Canopy Low and Tilt Forward
Keep the umbrella canopy low and tilt it slightly forward, so that the lens remains dry. Guide the camera close under the front edge of the umbrella, without the fabric intruding into the frame. In wind, turn so that the rain comes from behind or from the side, then the canopy protects better. An umbrella with eight fibreglass ribs absorbs gusts and remains stable while you hold the camera steady.
Material and Care After Use
A cover made of polyester with tight weave keeps out fine drizzle without drops penetrating. After photographing, open the umbrella fully and leave it standing in a dry place until the fabric is dry. Do not fold it up wet, otherwise mildew forms. Wipe the frame with a dry cloth, especially the joints and the runner. High-quality Umbrellas with metal ribs do not rust if you let them dry after each use.
Combine Backpack and Shoulder Strap
If you carry the camera on a shoulder strap worn crosswise on your back, you have it immediately at hand and do not need to pack it into a bag. The umbrella remains in the left hand, the right operates shutter release and control dial. A small backpack for interchangeable lenses should be water-repellent and remain on your back under the umbrella. This way you protect equipment and camera simultaneously, without having to juggle between bags and umbrella.
Related items: Jewellery, Bags and accessories, Pocket umbrellas. The complete range: Umbrellas.
Related categories: Jewellery, Bags and accessories, Pocket umbrellas. The full range: Umbrellas.
Read more: Umbrellas at Trade Shows: Practical Solutions for Crowds and Stand Changes, The Umbrella at the Opera House: Cloakroom, Interval and Etiquette, Combining Umbrella and Bag: Coordinating Material and Colour, Umbrellas as Gifts: What Often Goes Wrong, Umbrella Fabrics in the Rain: Polyester, Satin and Coated Materials