{"id":45482,"date":"2018-03-22T12:25:23","date_gmt":"2018-03-22T16:25:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/?p=45482"},"modified":"2025-05-02T17:23:33","modified_gmt":"2025-05-02T21:23:33","slug":"basic-tips-for-weather-photography","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/basic-tips-for-weather-photography\/","title":{"rendered":"Basic Tips for Weather Photography"},"content":{"rendered":"

Weather photography is definitely one of the most challenging yet rewarding types of photography that you can get into. If you\u2019re the type who likes taking photos of unusual sceneries that you definitely don\u2019t see on a regular day, much less in photos, then this a good niche for you.<\/p>\n

In this article, we\u2019ll help you capture stunning images of heavy dark skies, lightning storms, and maybe even a few snowstorms. Better than doing it \u201cright,\u201d we\u2019ll also highlight how you can prepare for it and keep yourself safe while you bring your weather photography to the next level.<\/p>\n

Weather Photography Tips<\/h2>\n
\"Lightning
Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Do Your Research<\/h3>\n

As part of your preparation for the weather shoot, do some major research ahead of time. Weather photography comes with serious risks that may keep you from ever bringing home any winning shots. At the same time, you have to make sure that you\u2019re heading out for a reason and won\u2019t be putting any efforts to waste.<\/p>\n

Check Weather Forecasts<\/h4>\n

Depending on what you\u2019re chasing after, like fast-moving rain clouds or thunderstorms, schedule your shoot when and where it\u2019s expected to take place. Radar apps are also of great help to many storm chasers, so you may want to download weather apps<\/strong> like Storm, MyRadar, or Radarscope.<\/p>\n

You should also check the national weather service for safety measures and other information that you\u2019ll need to know to ensure a safe location shoot.<\/p>\n

Get to Know the Area<\/h4>\n

If the storm is near you, make it a point to know the area so you can determine where you can safely position your camera and how you\u2019re going to drive in and out of it. If it\u2019s an unfamiliar place, search all you can about it and bring a physical map, just in case.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t rely on your cellphone<\/strong> if you\u2019re not entirely sure whether or not you\u2019ll get coverage in the area, especially during a storm. You\u2019d be much better off with a satellite-based GPS unit, but it can be very expensive for many.<\/p>\n

Bring the Right Gear<\/h3>\n

When shooting under harsh and extreme weather conditions, you\u2019ll definitely need a few other things aside from the stuff that you regularly have in your camera bag.<\/p>\n

Protective Gear<\/h4>\n

The first, most obvious type of gear you\u2019ll need is protective gear for your camera<\/a> and for yourself. These include the following covers and sleeves that are designed to keep you and your gear safe from rain, dust, and grime:<\/p>\n