Wildlife Photography in the Rain: From Drab to Fab

Are you a photographer who often finds themselves stuck inside on a rainy day, camera batteries idle and mind lacking inspiration?

It's time to shake off that feeling of being stuck and get outside, because the rain can be a powerful tool for capturing unique and intimate moments with your subjects.

Sling your camera over your shoulder and step into the rain-soaked landscape, where the sound of raindrops on the leaves and the smell of wet earth fill the air.

The rain might seem like a deterrent, but it can actually help you capture some amazing photos. For example, the rain can add a mystical quality to your photos, with raindrops creating a sense of atmosphere and texture. And the overcast skies can provide a soft, diffused light that's perfect for capturing the subtleties of your subject's features.

So why not give it a try?

Grab your gear and get outside, and see what kind of magic you can create in the rain.

For starters, the overcast lighting during a drizzle softens shadows and saturates colours, making your subjects pop. The diffused light reduces the difference between light and dark areas, creating a more even tone that's perfect for capturing subtle details.

But there's more to it.

Rain also encourages animals to behave in ways that are both fascinating and photogenic.

Have you ever noticed how birds fluff their feathers and preen meticulously after a shower, or how squirrels play in puddles and chase each other through the wet underbrush?

These are the unexpected moments that can transform a good photo into one that captures a rare moment or tells a story.

A downpour might prompt a usually elusive animal, like a fox or a deer, to emerge in search of food or shelter, providing a rare chance to photograph them in their element.

The rain might also bring out the playful side of animals, like otters or ducks, as they splash and frolic in the water.

These are the moments that make photography in the rain so rewarding.

Another aspect of working in the rain that can't be overstated is the unique atmosphere it can bring to your photographs.

Rain can infuse your images with a sense of mystery, emphasising the textures and patterns of the natural world.

The way rain desaturates the greens and yellows of foliage, creating a more subdued palette, can add depth and nuance to your photos.

Thin fog can cling to the ground, shrouding scenes in a mystical veil, while wispy mist can dance around tree trunks, creating an air of whimsy.

The atmosphere of a scene can be as much a subject as the wildlife within it, and rain creates a unique light that's only possible on overcast days.

So, while you're keeping yourself and your gear dry, take a moment to observe the atmosphere the rain is creating and think about how you can capture it to help tell the story in your images.

Gear Up for Wildlife Photography in the Rain

Before you head out into the rain, let's talk about protecting your camera gear.

If you're serious about wildlife photography, consider investing in a weather-sealed camera body and lenses, such as the Nikon D850 or the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. These cameras are designed to withstand heavy rain and extreme temperatures, thanks to their water-resistant plastics and corrosion-resistant metals.

Weather-sealed camera bodies have rubber gaskets and seals at all potential points of entry, such as where the lens attaches or where various dials and buttons are located. This means you can keep shooting during a light drizzle or in heavy rain for up to 30 minutes, without worrying about your gear.

However, if your gear isn't naturally rainproof, consider using a camera sleeve or rain cover, such as the Think Tank Photo Emergency Rain Cover. This accessory is like a raincoat for your camera and can be a lifesaver in harsh weather conditions.

The Role of Lens Hoods

While we're on the topic of gear, let's not overlook the humble lens hood. This simple accessory serves a dual purpose in the rain.

First, it can help to keep raindrops off your lens, which is critical for maintaining clarity in your photos. I recall a shoot where a single raindrop on my lens resulted in a distracting smudge on an otherwise sharp image of a deer.

Second, it aids in reducing lens flare, which can cause unwanted streaks of light to appear in your photos.

So, remember to attach that lens hood—it's a small step that can have a big impact on your wildlife photography in the rain.

But on some occasions, even a lens hood isn’t enough!

Once, while out in a mild drizzle, I was so engrossed in tracking a snipe through my viewfinder that I barely registered the rain intensifying. The sound of raindrops hitting my camera's weather-sealed body was like a steady drumbeat, lulling me into a false sense of security.

Suddenly, a strong gust of wind blew a sheet of rain directly into my lens hood, flooding it with water. In moments, water found its way onto the lens element, and each shot thereafter was marred by a smeared, ghostly haze.

From that day on, I've always kept a small microfiber cloth tucked within easy reach.

Don't forget to shield yourself as well with waterproof clothing and boots. I recall a shoot where I was so cold and wet that I could barely focus on my subject.

Sometimes, the difference between a successful shoot and a learning experience is just a few drops of water in the wrong place.

Protect your gear when its not in use

When heading out into heavy rain showers, it's crucial to have a weatherproof bag made of water-resistant nylon or polyurethane-coated fabric to protect your gear.

These bags are designed to withstand a soaking, but even so, opening them during a downpour is a risky move unless you're under a gazebo or a building with a solid roof

Rain can sneak in quickly, and it takes only a few droplets to cause potential damage to your equipment. It's best to wait until you find a dry spot or shelter before accessing your gear.

This proactive approach will keep your camera and accessories safe and dry, ready for when the rain eases. 

By taking this simple precaution, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your equipment remains in good working condition.

Protect Yourself Too - The Northumberland Soaking

I learned the hard way that staying dry and warm is crucial on long hikes during a 6-mile trek in Northumberland one October.

The day started bright enough, but as I walked, dark clouds gathered, and the wind picked up, signalling an impending storm. Halfway through, the heavens opened up, and I found myself drenched to the bone, miles away from any shelter.

My jacket's waterproof seams failed, letting water seep in and soak my clothes. Every step squelched a reminder of my sodden socks. Despite the discomfort, I persevered, determined to make the most of the day.

I took some remarkable photos of birds taking shelter from the storm, their feathers ruffled by the wind. These were the kind of shots that can only be taken when you're as much a part of the environment as the creatures you're photographing.

Another walk where we struggled with wet conditions is shared on the Rutland Water page.

The Advantages of Being the Lone Photographer

Before we take a look at camera settings, let's take a moment to appreciate the thrill of having the rain-soaked wilderness to yourself. The stillness of woodland, uninterrupted by human chatter, can be a wildlife enthusiast's dream come true.

When the skies open up, most photographers pack up, leaving behind empty wildlife hides and a quiet, eerie atmosphere that allows you to focus on the animals. You can take your time to set up your shot, without the need to jostle for position or worry about someone else's movements scaring away the wildlife.

With the lack of human presence, wildlife is more engaged in natural behaviours, allowing for more authentic and intimate captures you wouldn’t typically see.

By being the lone figure in the landscape, you not only get to experience the wilderness in a unique way but also increase your chances of capturing exceptional photographs.

So, grab your camera and take advantage of the solitude – you never know what rare moments you might capture.

Nailing Those Camera Settings in the Rain

Getting your camera settings correct for wildlife photography in the rain can be as challenging as trying to keep your gear dry. Here are some tips:

Start with a higher ISO to compensate for the reduced light available on overcast days or in heavy rain, which can reduce the available light by 2-3 stops. However, be aware that going too high can introduce digital noise, which can appear as grain or speckles in your image, especially in the shadows.

If you're shooting in heavy rain, you may need to push your ISO to 1600 or 3200 to get a sharp image. However, if the rain is light and the skies are overcast, ISO 800 may be sufficient.

Opt for a wider aperture to let in more light; ideally this would mean setting your aperture to f/2.8, but if you can't afford a lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, consider using a lens with a maximum aperture of f/4 or f/5.6, which can still provide good results in low light.

Opt for a wider aperture to let in more light; ideally this would mean setting your aperture to f/2.8, but if you can't afford a lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, set the widest aperture available on your lens.

However, be aware that a wider aperture will reduce the depth of field, which means that objects in the background may become blurred. This can be a creative effect, but it may also cause important details to become soft.

To avoid this, consider using a narrower aperture, such as f/5.6 or f/8, which will provide a deeper depth of field.

Consider speedier shutter speeds to freeze raindrops in mid-air making each one look like a tiny, suspended diamond.

But if you want to capture the rain's motion, slow down the shutter speed to around 1/30th or even slower, to create blurred streaks that give a sense of motion and energy to your photos

Why does rain affect autofocus?

When shooting in heavy rain, be prepared to switch to manual focus to ensure your subject stays sharp. Autofocus can struggle to lock onto subjects in a downpour.

Rain can create a layer of tiny water droplets on the lens, reducing contrast and causing the autofocus to hunt or lock onto the wrong part of the scene

Additionally, rain can reflect light, creating multiple light paths that confuse the autofocus sensors.

Switching to manual focus gives you full control, ensuring you're pinpointing the exact spot you want in sharp relief even in rainy conditions.

Shelter Strategies During a Downpour

It's not always practical or possible to be out in the open during a torrential downpour. That's when wildlife photography hides—also known as blinds—come in handy.

Hides offer shelter for you and your equipment and can be an excellent way to wait out the weather. They also often provide a stable shooting platform and can minimise your presence, allowing for more natural behaviour from your wildlife subjects.

If you're planning to shoot in an area known for storms it's worth researching if there are hides available and their exact locations.

Sometimes, though, hides aren't available. In such cases, nature's own shelters can be a godsend.

Look for natural coverings like a cluster of fir trees with a dense canopy or a limestone overhang with a dry area beneath. These natural elements can provide some reprieve from the rain, allowing you to continue shooting while staying relatively dry.

Not only do they offer protection, but they also can add an interesting natural frame to your photos.

Be sure to scout your location ahead of time, so you know where to head when the rain starts pouring.

Keep in mind…

Nobody wants their rain-soaked adventure to turn into a tale of woe.

Keep extra batteries and memory cards in watertight containers to avoid moisture-related mishaps.

And be mindful of your footing and your gear's stability, as wet conditions can lead to slippery surfaces underfoot.

The Hidden Dangers to the Wildlife Photographer

The rain can bring a host of challenges that extend beyond technical difficulties.

Slippery trails, unpredictable terrain, and decreased visibility can all pose significant risks to you, the photographer.

It's vital to stay vigilant about personal safety. Always tell someone where you're going and when you expect to be back. Carry a well-charged phone and a basic first-aid kit.

Be aware of the signs of hypothermia as well; shivering, confusion, and slurred speech are red flags.

Staying dry is about more than comfort—it's a key factor in staying safe. Remember, no photograph is worth compromising your well-being.

The Beauty of Reflections After the Rain

Once the downpour has settled and the clouds part just enough to let through a glimmer of light, there's a whole new dimension to wildlife photography that comes into play—reflections.

After a rain, puddles, ponds, and any body of water can become mirrors to the sky and surrounding foliage, creating a symmetrical harmony that's perfect for compelling compositions.

As the sun peers through the clouds, it can cast a golden glow that shimmers on the surface of water, offering a breathtaking backdrop for your wildlife and nature subjects.

Birds skimming over a still pond can leave ripples that, when captured at the right moment, tell a story of movement and life continuing despite the rain.

But it's not just about the larger bodies of water. Even tiny puddles can provide a chance for creativity.

Look for insects, amphibians, or small mammals interacting with these miniature landscapes. A simple puddle can turn into a canvas reflecting the upside-down world, adding depth and interest to your shots.

Positioning for Perfect Reflections

Positioning yourself at a lower angle can enhance the reflective effect, making the water's surface occupy a larger part of the frame and thereby creating a more pronounced mirror image.

Be patient and wait for the wind to calm; even a slight breeze can disturb the water's surface and disrupt a clear reflection.

The trick to capturing reflections is to focus on the symmetry between the subject and its mirrored image. This might require you to adjust your position or wait for the animal to move to the perfect spot where its reflection is visible and not obscured by ripples or debris.

The aftermath of rain also tends to bring out more vivid colors in the environment.

Greens appear greener, and the wet surfaces of rocks and leaves can add a glossy quality to your images. Use this to your advantage, and remember to expose correctly to avoid losing detail in the highlights, which can be tricky when dealing with reflective surfaces.

Incorporating reflections into your wildlife photography not only shows your subject in its environment but also adds a layer of visual interest that can raise your image from a snapshot to a work of art.

Post-Processing Magic for Rainy Day Shots

So you've returned with your memory card full of rain-drenched wildlife images, now what? Post-processing can turn those great shots into extraordinary ones.

When you're working with your rainy day captures, consider the unique aspects of your images.

Rain tends to bring a cooler, bluer tone to pictures, which you might want to correct—or enhance, depending on the mood you're aiming for. Adjusting the white balance can help tackle this cool cast.

Play with contrast and clarity sliders to make subjects stand out against the rain. The raindrops themselves can be emphasised by increasing the clarity, which will bring out the finer details in each droplet.

If you managed to capture the rain as streaks, consider whether they lead the eye toward your subject or away from it; you might need to burn (darken) or dodge (lighten) areas to balance the composition.

Noise reduction will be your friend if you've had to bump up your ISO. Use it judiciously to maintain some of the natural textures without the image becoming overly soft.

Lastly, if you shot in RAW, you'd have much more flexibility in adjusting exposure and recovering details, so take full advantage of that in your post-processing workflow.

Editing or Manipulation?

While you're in the digital darkroom working on your rain-soaked images, it's important to distinguish between editing and manipulation.

Editing involves making adjustments to bring out the best in your photos, such as tweaking exposure, white balance, and contrast to reflect what you witnessed in the field accurately.

Manipulation, on the other hand, involves more significant alterations that can change the reality of the scene, like adding or removing elements or applying heavy filters that alter the original colours and textures.

As a wildlife photographer, maintaining the integrity of what you captured is vital.

Your goal in post-processing should be to enhance the photo while keeping it truthful to the moment. It's about refining the image to convey the mood and beauty of the scene, not creating a false narrative.

The guidelines for ethical photo editing are there to help you create images that are as genuine as they are stunning. Remember, the most compelling wildlife photographs are those that tell the real story of nature, rain or shine.

The Spurn Head Experience

Reflecting on the unpredictability and challenges that rain brings, let me take you back to my experience at Spurn Head.

The wind was relentless, and the rain felt like countless needles against my skin. There was no escaping it.

But amidst the chaos, there was beauty—the wild sea, the windswept landscape, and the resilient wildlife that call it home. It was raw and real.

You can read about my full experience at Spurn Head here. 

It drives home that, despite the challenges, photographing wildlife in the rain can be an exhilarating adventure that yields exceptional results.

Wrapping up

Now, equipped with these stories and strategies, I hope you feel inspired to go out in the rain rather than retreat from it.

Remember, as a wildlife photographer, every droplet, every unexpected downpour, and every soaked piece of equipment is part of your journey—a journey that leads to unparalleled shots that capture the essence of nature in its most candid moments.

So, the next time the clouds gather, consider it an invitation to create something truly special, with the rain as your unlikely accomplice.

Zip up that rain jacket, protect your gear, and venture out to do some wildlife photography in the rain.

Sometimes, the most remarkable moments in wildlife photography come dressed in raindrops.

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