Today we had our first snowfall of the year (actually first snow fall of the season!). It was -8 with a 30 km wind and my first thought was....perfect, grab the camera and go.  I love to go out when the weather really sucks...there's drama everywhere to photograph, and I never see anyone else out, so know any images I get will be one of a kind. 

Blowing Snow

So, this begs the question, are you a fair weather photographer or do you relish the challenge that Mother Nature slaps you with? Do you embrace the howling winds, rain and snow or wait until a warm sunny day to venture out with your camera? If you haven't yet taken that step into the wild unknown, I would suggest you give it a try, you will almost certainly be surprised and hopefully rewarded for your efforts!  Alone

There is really no weather bad enough (at least where I live) that I won't consider going out in. I make sure the gear I take with me for the day is well protected from the elements...sometimes a rain jacket for the camera and lens, sometimes just my handy umbrella, extra batteries if it is really cold out, and I like to keep my gear in the trunk of my car if it is cold, it keeps the camera and lens at a closer temperature to the outdoors, rather than in and out of a warm vehicle where moisture and condensation can build up inside the camera body and fog the lens. I also make sure I am protected from the elements, always dress appropriate for the conditions...rain gear, winter coat, gloves and touque, and warm, waterproof footware. 

The world around us changes as dramatically as the weather does. As much as changing light changes everything we see, weather affects the mood and ambiance of every scene. Places you have been to and scenes you have photographed before suddenly transform into new works of art, waiting for your interpretation.

Cascade Falls

It doesn't all have to be blizzard or monsoon conditions either. Sometimes you just wait out the worst of it and are rewarded with an amazing sunset or rainbow, and you get the shot because you are out there, prepared to capture that amazing image!

Heritage Park Rainbow

So, next time the photo bug bites you but it's raining buckets out there, think about how the extra water coming down your local water falls will look, or how a forest scene would look shrouded in fog or blowing snow. Pack up and head out...even if you don't bring home a winning image, you will have gotten off the couch and got some fresh air and maybe a little work out. Win win!