Living in Canada, I have had to learn how to treat my gear so that it still preforms even when the mercury drops below -40. I decided to share my cold weather lessons with you.
Disclaimer: the following information is not recommended by any manufacturer. It is simply what I have found works best for me. Use this information at your own risk.
When you are going out to take photos, some planning is needed. Your electronics need to cool down to the temperature in which they are going to be used. I like to pack all of my gear into my camera bag and place it in the trunk of my car at least an hour before I go out. You could also put your bag in a garage or storage shed; anything that can be locked and not easily carried off.
Once you get outside, you can pretty much work as normal. Just make sure not to get any snow in your camera when changing lenses.
The good thing about cold weather is that if you are shooting photos in rapid succession or extended exposures, the cold helps stop the buildup of heat on your sensor that would otherwise cause noise. Unfortunately, cold does not do any favors for your batteries. I suggest keeping extra batteries in a pocket within your jacket to keep them warm. When a battery runs out, just warm it back up again and you'll likely find it wasn't anywhere close to empty.
Also note that you need to charge your batteries at room temperature. Cold batteries won't accept a charge nearly as well as room temperature ones will.
My camera's manual says it will function down to 0°C (+32°F). I've personally used my camera at about -42°C and the only ill-effects I was aware of was the top LCD display responded very slowly. Other than that, everything worked as it was intended to work (Does this mean I suggest you treat your gear this way? No. That choice is up to you).
Once you finish your shoot, you need to reverse the process to allow the camera to slowly warm up. This is the part where you could really cause some damage if not done properly.
- Before going inside, remove your lens and replace with the body cap.
- Remove camera's batteries.
- Remove batteries from external flash unit if you have it with you.
- Remove memory card(s) from camera and case and place them in your pocket. They will warm up quickly and you'll be able to see your photos.
- Wrap camera body in small towel or t-shirt and place back in case (this will soak up any moisture from condensation).
- Zip up case and bring inside. Do not place case near any register, radiator, or other source of heat. This process should be as slow as possible. Keeping the gear in your bag will assist in slowing the process.
- Wait as long as possible. I like to leave my gear alone overnight. Also remember that just because the exterior of your equipment is warm and dry does not mean that is how it is inside.
