Capturing the beauty of the natural world through photography is an art form that requires a keen eye, technical skill and creative vision. However, an often underrated aspect that can significantly impact the outcome of a landscape photography trip is the choice of clothing.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic amateur, the right outfit can make a difference not only in your comfort but also in the quality of your photos. In this article, we dive into the importance of choosing the right clothing to make the most of your outdoor photography adventures.
Comfort allows for creativity
Comfort is the foundation upon which successful outdoor photography is built. When you feel comfortable in your clothes, you can focus better on your surroundings, composition, and the photos you want to take. Ill-fitting, uncomfortable clothes can distract you from your creative process and limit your ability to connect with your environment. If you don’t feel comfortable, it can shorten your time and distract you from the task at hand.
For example, wearing appropriate footwear such as hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers will provide the comfort and support needed to traverse uneven terrain and confidently explore diverse landscapes. You wouldn’t go hiking in slippers, would you? But I bet you have seen instances of people hiking in “fashionable” shoes and wondered…?
Likewise, choosing moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics helps regulate body temperature and prevent discomfort caused by sweat and moisture build-up, especially during long shots. This can be a game changer when you stop, as the moisture won’t cling to your body and effectively acts as a refrigerator around you.
In addition, there is a reason to choose the right outfit for each type of sport: soccer players not only wear their team’s uniform, but also the necessary outfits for them to play at their best. ! Usain Bolt won’t be hitting the starting line in ice hockey gear, nor will Tiger Woods be teeing off in a puffy winter jacket.
Change conditions
Outdoor photography often exposes us to rapidly changing weather conditions. The ability to adapt to these fluctuations is crucial to capturing unique and diverse photos. Dressing in layers is an effective strategy to combat unpredictable weather. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to control perspiration, as mentioned above, followed by insulating layers like fleece or down for warmth, and finally a waterproof and windproof outer layer to shelter from harsh rain and wind. Seasoned photographers probably already know this, as do hikers, but it’s just as important today as it ever was, so make sure you don’t have to learn it the hard way like many others.
Furthermore, accessories such as hats, gloves and scarves not only protect from the elements but also provide additional opportunities for creativity, as you may have to wait a long time for the light to come on. or the right moment, so it’s better to have them than to be beaten back. by factors! On the subject of gloves, look for waterproof gloves and even photography-specific gloves with removable or touchscreen-friendly index fingers and thumbs; which means you can operate your camera settings without having to take off your gloves every time.
Integrate with the environment
When it comes to wildlife and nature photography, being discreet is often the key to capturing candid, unedited moments. Animals are more likely to behave naturally if they don’t perceive you as a threat. This is where clothing choice comes into play. Choosing earth tones and neutral colors helps you blend in perfectly with your environment. Greens, browns and grays mimic the colors of nature and reduce the likelihood of surprising wildlife. You’ll see more wildlife photographers dressing like combat soldiers when taking that dramatic photo, wearing camouflage from head to toe to give them the best chance of blending in.
Avoid wearing bright colors or bold patterns as they can disrupt the harmony of your surroundings and draw attention towards you, potentially altering the behavior of the subject you are trying to photograph.
I have seen many times people wearing premium coats and walking across fields when trying to photograph our native Red Deer in Ireland, and not only do they ruin it for themselves, but they also ruin it for others. others. has been patiently sitting or hiding for hours at just the right moment! Don’t be that person, please.
In some parts of the world, it is customary to wear bright orange during hunting season to ensure other hunters see you and do not confuse you with their prey.
It’s also important to consider the environmental impact clothes can have, so choose brands that support recycling where possible.
Safety first
While aesthetics and comfort are important, safety should always be the top priority on outdoor photography expeditions. Depending on the location and terrain, the right clothing can make the difference between a safe adventure and a risky endeavor.
When venturing into remote areas or areas with rugged terrain, consider wearing clothing that provides protection from the sun, insects, thorny plants, and rough terrain. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats help shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, while lightweight, breathable fabric helps prevent overheating. For example, if you’re about to be found, bright colors will help rescuers spot you if you need help!
I also highly recommend wearing boots with special grip, because just as it’s important to have sturdy feet for your tripod, it’s even more important that your feet stay firm and steady!
The soldier’s advice is to always pay attention to your feet; If they get wet that’s when the trouble can start, so being waterproof is important, but it’s also a good idea to carry a spare pair of socks in your bag, just in case. you need them!
Bring necessary equipment
The right outfit not only enhances your photography experience, but can also help you comfortably carry your essentials. Many outdoor photographers require a variety of equipment, from cameras and lenses to tripods and accessories. Outfitting your clothing with multiple pockets, loops and straps allows you to distribute the weight of your gear effectively and have everything you need on hand.
Photography-specific vests, jackets, and pants often have dedicated pockets for lenses, memory cards, and other small items. The same is true for hiking clothes, so make sure you have enough pockets to go with it. This convenience eliminates the need to carry a separate camera bag and ensures that you’re always ready to capture those fleeting moments. Top tip is to create your workflow when it comes to your budget! There’s a cleaning cloth in the same bag so you don’t have to look for it every time! There is a battery in another dedicated bag so you can easily replace the battery when needed. It’s also helpful when packing because a quick check of these bags will ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
Maintain focus and concentration
The discomfort caused by wearing inappropriate clothing can lead to fatigue and a reduced ability to concentrate on the task at hand. Prolonged discomfort can lead to physical stress and mental exhaustion, which can affect the quality of your work. When your clothes allow you to move freely and comfortably, you can stay focused and alert, ready to capture the perfect shot. If you’ve ever been showered in the rain wearing denim jeans, you know how difficult it is to move around in them; they might as well have been a pair of leather pants in the infamous “Friends” episode when it came time to take them off!
Maintain equipment in challenging environments
Outdoor photography often involves exposure to harsh and potentially damaging environments. Dust, sand, moisture, and other elements can wreak havoc on your equipment if not properly protected. Choosing clothing that covers and shields your gear from the elements is essential to prolonging the life of your gear.
Invest in clothing with secure buckles and adjustable features to prevent particles from entering pockets or crevices. It also prevents objects from falling out and getting lost.
Additionally, consider packing microfiber cloths or lens cleaning kits to maintain the integrity of your camera gear throughout your journey, and keep them in dedicated bags for deployment. fast.
Reflect your identity
While function is paramount, your outfit also reflects your identity as a photographer. Choosing clothes that match your style can boost your confidence and help you establish rapport with your audience. This is especially relevant in portrait photography where your interactions with people can impact the overall mood of the photo. People not only look at the camera the photographer is using but also look at their appearance. I don’t recall seeing any professional or amateur photographers present at the shoot wearing Lycra running or even cycling! Dress appropriately for the occasion as it can express your personality and style and create a certain style!
Personally, I wear a bright colored jacket when taking photos, the reason is that it helps me stand out if I encounter any difficulties, my friends easily recognize me when we take photos together, it helps YouTube My videos have more emphasis, and it also works well if I want to take a strongly posed photo of me in a landscape for added scale.
With that said, I also have camouflage gear for wildlife photography because I certainly don’t want to be “that guy” who ruins it for others and of course for myself!
Final
In outdoor photography, where there are not only natural landscapes but also wildlife and unpredictable conditions, the importance of appropriate clothing cannot be overstated.
From ensuring comfort and safety to enhancing creativity and technical prowess, the right clothing becomes an important tool in any photographer’s kit. As I mentioned above, you won’t see top level athletes going into battle wearing jeans and t-shirts, and the same will go for us to help us enjoy and survive. Staying longer outdoors is potentially devastating!
As you plan your next outdoor photography adventure, take time to choose clothing that suits the environment, weather, and your style. Doing so will give you the best opportunities to capture the breathtaking beauty of the world around you instead of getting wet, cold or uncomfortable.
Do you have any additional tips to add, do you have any clothes that you never leave home with or do you have any stories about how wearing the wrong clothes has hindered your photoshoots like How are you?
Let’s continue the conversation in the comments section below!
