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Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2008 
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Protecting a camera in cold weather
In general, cold air won't harm a camera. Condensation is the real enemy. Water and electronics just don't mix. Fortunately, protecting a camera in cold weather isn't difficult. So, let's protect yours! You don't need to worry about taking your camera out into the cold. Cold air has low moisture content. So, water won't condense on the camera components. Carry spare batteries You also shouldn't worry much about using a digital camera in the cold. As I said, the cold isn't likely to damage it. However, batteries don't perform well in extreme cold. They become less efficient. So, I recommend carrying plenty of spares. I also recommend keeping your camera and batteries warm. For example, you can carry them underneath your coat. Body heat should help stave off the cold. This will also prevent the shutter from sticking. The oil used on the shutter may freeze in the cold. Now, snow is a different story. Snow can have the same effect as condensation. So, you want to keep snow off of your camera. Waterproof case Putting the camera under your coat will help. Obviously, though, this makes it difficult to use. So, I would buy a waterproof case. Waterproof housings can be very, very expensive. Some are more expensive than a semi-professional digital SLR! Fortunately, you don't need to spend that much. The most expensive housings are designed for scuba divers. They remain watertight at extreme depths. I presume you will not be doing any scuba diving on your trip. So, you needn't worry about depth ratings. That means you can opt for the least expensive waterproof casing. The cheapest solution is probably a waterproof bag. These resemble Ziploc bags. However, they should have a special lens. You line up the camera lens with the one on the bag to shoot photos. Carry a lint-free cloth These bags are generally watertight to 12 feet or so. Pricing will vary based on your camera. In some cases, you'll find them for about $50. Or, you can spend upwards of $100. My tip will help you find a waterproof bag. You should also carry a clean, dry, lint-free cloth. You can use it to remove water droplets from the camera lens. The biggest cold weather problem arises when you bring the camera inside. Condensation will form on cold objects brought into a warm room. One solution is to allow the camera to warm up slowly. Place it on a windowsill immediately. This will let the camera warm to room temperature over a few hours. Personally, I don't find this a very satisfying solution. There are just too many risks involved. Also, you may want to use the camera inside. Use a plastic bag A better solution is to put the camera in a plastic bag. Do this before bringing the camera inside. Condensation will form on the bag, not the camera. When the camera reaches room temperature, remove it from the bag. This is another reason why a waterproof bag is a good idea. Your camera is protected from snow and other moisture outside. You can then take the camera inside without worrying. You can even continue to use it. You needn't worry about condensation. Traveling is fun. But you need to keep your bearings. Many dangers can befall you and your electronics. My must-read tips will help keep you safe:
• Keep your camera safe on vacation • How to prevent laptop theft • Keep an eye on your home when you travel • Will x-ray screening damage digital cameras? KEEP YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS UP-TO-DATE  Every day, Team Komando produces some of the best content you'll find anywhere on the Internet. Here is a sampling of what's new on our site today! • Are You A Winner?: Now you can be! Enter my Great Giveaway Sweepstakes every day for your big chance! We are giving away over 280 prizes totaling over $80,000 daily online and on-air! Today, enter to win a SOLO Smart Strap Leather Rolling Laptop Case ($180 value). This quality laptop travel bag features a shoulder strap that automatically retracts into the case frame when not in use. Enter to win daily here. • Video of the Day: If you have any interest in carpentry, you have a table saw. This cool safety device will help you keep your fingers. • Cool Site of the Day: Who's afraid of Santa Claus? Apparently a lot of kids. This site features some hilarious scary-Santa photos. • Digital Minute, on your radio: Confused by all the different camera specifications? You're not alone. Find out which specs really matter. • Free Download of the Day: Got questions? For directions, trivia and business listings, your cell phone can deliver the answers. • Tip on the site: Photographing children isn't always easy. I have some tips that can help. They'll make photos of your kids really shine. Tomorrow's Tip, in your e-mail: Buying a budget PC Kim :) 
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I will be visiting Yellowstone National Park with my family. I plan to take plenty of photographs, of course. There's just one thing. I'm worried about my camera. How can I protect it from the cold weather? 
Many people use cameras in cold weather without a second thought. But you're right to worry about possible damage. Exposing your camera to the cold can have serious consequences.
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Thanks for understanding that we need to prevent the nasties.