Tips and creative ideas for city night photography before, during, and after rain
Asked 6/4/2014
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2 answers
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What creative opportunities does rain add to night photography in an urban setting? I’m interested in ideas for shooting before, during, and after rain without needing a special destination—just places like streets, pavements, gardens, railway areas, or a balcony.
I’d also like practical advice for working safely with camera gear at night in wet conditions, especially if my camera and lenses are not weather sealed. Can rain or spray on the front element damage lens coatings, and what precautions should I take?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
2
Shooting at night, rain or not, will require some light from somewhere. That means either the moon, artificial sources, or very long exposures.
Shooting before rain will probably focus on shots of incoming clouds, but this will be very tricky in total darkness. It may be possible on a bright, moonlit night though.
Shooting during rain will have similar issues - artificial light sources like city lights will be your best bet here.
Shooting after rain will likely revolve around interesting reflections in puddles and pools, or off the roads and pavements.
If your camera is not weather sealed, you can buy waterproof covers which are reasonably affordable that cover both the lens and the camera.
Originally by user3205. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user3205
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Rain can add a lot to night photos, but you’ll need light from somewhere: moonlight, streetlights, signs, car lights, or long exposures.
Creative options:
- Before rain: dramatic cloud build-up can work if there’s enough moonlight or city glow.
- During rain: city lighting is usually the key. You can use rain to add mood around people, or make the rain/droplets themselves the subject.
- After rain: this is often the easiest and most rewarding time. Wet roads, pavements, rails, and puddles create strong reflections, especially from colorful urban lights. Getting the camera low to the ground can make reflections much more prominent.
Practical tips:
- If your gear isn’t weather sealed, protect it. A waterproof camera cover is a good option.
- An umbrella helps a lot; having an assistant makes it much easier, especially if you’re also using off-camera lighting.
- If using lights, think about keeping them dry too.
About water on the lens: avoid letting rain sit on the front element if you can, mainly because droplets will spoil the image. The provided answers recommend shelter, covers, and umbrellas rather than exposing unsealed gear directly to rain.
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