[photo-3d] Cold Weather Realist

[markaren@xxxxxxxxx]

Pittsburgh winters are cold enough, but it's the wind chill factor that
is unbearable. So far the Realist has been a proven performer in these
conditions, but I take some precautions.
While walking long distances, I strap the camera around my neck and zip
it up on the inside of my jacket. I also have a couple of
handwarmers.........one uses charcoal sticks, the other lighter fluid
etc. I keep one inside a large pocket to warm my hands, and slip the
realist into this pocket from time to time.
For extended cold weather shooting, I'll place a handwarmer inside a
photo bag, and keep the camera in the bag. These handwarmers are great,
very safe, and can be purchased at many sporting good stores etc.
Of course it is recommended to use a tripod with a quick release for
fast set-ups. Another great accessory I recieved for Christmas is a set
of gloves with finger holes, and the mitten portion is sewn to the back
of the glove held open by velcro. To cover your fingers simply swing the
mitten over your finger tips! A great idea and a must for cold weather
photographers!! Never take your gloves off to switch camera settings, or
keep returning your cold hands to your pockets! But I'm afraid I don't
have the cold weather stamina I once had.
Perhaps a pair of those battery powered socks will do the trick. Anyone
have any experience with battery powered socks? :-)
                                     Mark Dottle