Shooting into rain/storm

[C. Miersch]

Hello everybody,

since this is my first thread I will briefly introduce myself. Im located in Germany and I do 3D work. Regarding photography Im more or less a hobbyist. I have read the forum with great interest since about 2007. I have learned a big deal here and I truly admit the knowledge shared.


Ok. What concerns me now, I am currently investigating for an upcoming shoot. What are my options of shooting right into heavy rain storms, when the lens is facing (more or less) directly the wind. The camera is not my problem, it can be sealed, also the lens, but how do I protect the lens front surface from the rain in such conditions.

My first idea, so far untested, a sturdy giant hood connected to the rig, wich would shield the lens and maybe allow shooting at a slight angle relative to the wind. Dont know if that would work.

What options do you use. Is there any special gear for that task? Does anybody have experience with fluid repellant sprays?

We will be doing in about 2 months, so there is plenty of time for me to test.

 

[Clark Dunbar]

this should help -> http://www.innovision-optics.com/prod/spintec.shtml

 

[David Kuhn]

That's a cool idea... I've used a pressurized air curtain in the past to protect a camera from particulate I didn't want touching it, but it's not as simple to implement as the innovision product.

 

[Jason Comparetto]

I go with pressurized air. The difficulty lies in how much you are trying to deflect. small amount is easy, large amounts may more higher power. A centrifugal spinning disc doesn't sound like something i want in front of my optics. reminds me RedRock 35mm adapters. ugh i'll never, ever, ever go back.

 

[ericyoung]

Actually the Spintec is a tried and trusted solution - been around for years. The glass is Tiffen made - so optically flat. And there is a mechanism for cancelling any gyro effect, so it doesn't affect pans and tilts. But pressurised air is certainly an alternative.

 

[C. Miersch]

Clark, the Spintec looks like a very practical solution.

Im not sure about the exact amout Jason, but Im thinking fairly heavy conditions. Compressed air would probably be the next step if the spintec is not enough (Spintec, big hood, plus compressed air). Would also depend on the storm. I will just have to test it out.

Thanks everybody for your answers!