Generally people do not like bad weather.  Photographers are a different breed.  We love bad weather.  Bad weather could mean drama, unusual light, and something different.  Before you go out there during a storm or some other inclement weather think safety first.  Last November I was shooting with a workshop with pro-photographer Don Smith (www.donsmithphotography.com).  The weather was bad. The friendly people of Wyoming could not believe the weather for the time of year.  Yes, it was miserable, cold and wet, hail and snow.

          Non-photographers typically pack up their gear and head for warmer pastures.  In fact, we did not see many other people out there when the weather was bad.  Yet, bad weather presents shooting opportunities that do not come by every day.  Of particular interest are the edges of storms.  The light and clouds can be very special during these times.  However some stunning shots can be had even during snow or other weather related inconveniences.

          This shot tells a story.  You can see the snow fall.  You can see from the angle of the snow that it is windy.  The picture screams "cold!"  It speaks of the change of seasons; fall is going and winter has come.  When shooting in snow beware of your front lens element.  Ensure that no snow lands on it because it will ruin your shot.  Cover you gear and use a lens cloth to clean it right before you shoot, but please shoot; even in bad weather.

Zebra ScratchingZebra Scratching           This shot was shot in the rain.  You can see that it is cloudy because there are no shadows.  Falling rain drops are visible above the Zebra's head.  Yet I just love the soft light.  When things are wet their color is more saturated.  When the weather is bad we don't stop shooting, rather we ask: what kind of photography is best suited to this light?

          If safe, when others pack away their gear, go shoot.