Quick DIY methods for protecting your camera from rain often utilize simple, everyday items found in a pinch.
Simple DIY Camera Rain Cover Methods
When caught in unexpected rain, you don't always need a professional rain cover. Several simple DIY solutions can offer temporary protection using items you might already have with you.
Using a Shower Cap
As suggested by practical tips for travelers and photographers, if you stay in a hotel, grab those free shower caps and stick them in your camera bag. These flimsy caps can serve as a basic, emergency rain cover for your camera body and lens.
Here's how to use one:
- Drape It: Simply place the shower cap over your camera and lens, ensuring it covers the top and sides where rain is most likely to hit.
- Positioning: Try to keep the front element of your lens uncovered or use the lens hood to provide some protection under the cap.
- Limitations: Be aware that even though they're incredibly flimsy and will blow off with the slightest gusts of wind, shower caps can offer a few minutes of protection while you seek better shelter or prepare a more robust cover. You might need to hold it in place.
Using a Plastic Bag
A common plastic bag, like a grocery bag or a small trash bag, can be easily repurposed into a camera rain cover.
Steps:
- Select the Bag: Choose a bag large enough to cover your camera and lens.
- Cut a Hole: Make a small hole in one corner or the bottom of the bag, just large enough for the front of your lens to poke through.
- Fit It: Slide the bag over your camera from the back, guiding the lens through the hole you cut.
- Secure (Optional): Use a rubber band or some gaffer tape (if you have it) to gently secure the bag around the lens hood or the lens barrel to prevent water from entering the front. Ensure you can still access controls like zoom and focus.
Using Fabric or Towel
While not waterproof, a towel, scarf, or even a spare piece of cloth can offer some protection in a light drizzle or temporarily shield your camera.
- Method: Simply drape the fabric over your camera.
- Purpose: This is best for very light rain or when moving between dry spots. It can help absorb some moisture but won't protect against heavy downpours.
Why Use DIY Covers?
- Emergency Solution: Perfect for unexpected changes in weather.
- Cost-Effective: Uses items you already possess or can acquire for free/cheaply.
- Portability: Simple items like shower caps or plastic bags take up minimal space in your camera bag.
Tips for Using DIY Covers
- Coverage: Ensure critical parts like the top plate, hot shoe, and connections ports are covered.
- Accessibility: Try to keep access to essential controls like the shutter button and mode dial clear, or make small strategic openings if necessary (and seal them well).
- Securing: Use simple means like rubber bands or clothespins to help keep the cover in place, especially the plastic bag around the lens.
Remember, DIY covers are often temporary solutions. For prolonged shooting in rain, consider investing in a dedicated camera rain cover.
