I hate the heat, and I’m convinced I’m designed for the months of September through to May here in the UK. Whatever your views on climate change, it’s definitely getting warmer here in the UK, which can make being outside, at the very least, an uncomfortable experience. A few people have asked me whether I still manage to capture photographs in it, so I thought I would share my top ten tips for keeping your photography ticking over in the heat:
Ditch the camera bag. You need to travel light, so ditch the bag or sling and all those odds and sods you take with you just in case. Pick a camera you can comfortably carry in your hand: a small compact, a mirrorless with a small prime, maybe even just your phone. This is just about keeping your creative juices ticking over, and any camera is good enough.
Pick your time. It’s an obvious one, but maybe fully embrace landscape photography and follow a landscape photographer’s lead. Dawn will be cooler than dusk, but either will be a relief after the heat of the day, and the light is also wonderful.
Become a night owl. Even more extreme with the short nights, but how about some nocturnal photography? Night light, or lack thereof, can create some fascinating images, and it will be the coolest part of the day. And with World Cup matches here in Europe at some interesting times, you may be up anyway, or trying to stay awake until kickoff.
Keep to the shade. For those of a fairer complexion like me, keeping out of the sun is vital for our comfort. The shade and strong light can create some interesting compositions themselves, especially in urban areas, so linger in the shade and see what you can find.
Stay at home. If you’ve followed me for a while, you will know about my light-around-the-home project. Why not turn your home into your own photographic studio and use that light streaming through the windows to good effect?
Linger in public spaces. Air conditioning is a delight, so why not make use of it and explore public spaces? Visit a local museum or art gallery and hunt out interesting compositions. Even your office block, if you’re working from one, can be a goldmine of inspiration. Why not set yourself a mini challenge to photograph a particular colour or subject, such as chairs?
Slow down. I’ve written endlessly on here about photographic opportunities being all around us, if we can just learn to see them. Slowing down and taking your time is key to this, in my mind, rather than rushing from A to B. Give yourself an extra 10 to 15 minutes to walk slowly and look for compositions. Your body will thank you in the heat as well. And don’t forget to repeat on the return leg, as I guarantee you will see some compositions you didn’t see on the way out.
Seek out old-school air conditioning. One location I really recommend all year round is old churches and places of worship here in the UK. Their thick stone walls act as natural air con, keeping the warm air out and the cool air in. Photographically, these places look at their best with light streaming through the windows, so if you’re passing by, check the door, as you may be surprised what you find inside.
Explore your computer. It’s just too hot to get out, or you’re fortunate enough to have air con at home. Why not take the time to stay at your desk and have a wander through your back catalogue? As the months and years pass, our tastes and technical abilities change and develop. What this means is that there will be untapped gems just sitting on your hard drive, waiting for you to rediscover them. Images we once discounted, as they were not to our taste or we didn’t know where to begin with post-processing, may now spring to life. New images without even picking up your camera.
Stay safe. For all of my suggestions, stay safe. Stay hydrated and out of the sun. Tempers will be short, so do not put yourself in situations unnecessarily. Yes, there are opportunities aplenty photographically, but equally a day or week off will not negatively impact your photography, and it can always return with the cooler temperatures.
As for me, I’ll be setting the alarm early, lingering in the shade, and quietly counting down the days to September.
How do you keep your photography ticking over when the temperature climbs? Let me know in the comments.
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