TIPS ON PHOTOGRAPHY IN ANTARCTICA

by National Science Foundation

The major problems with camera operation in the Antarctic are caused by low temperatures and condensation. For casual shooting, cameras should be carried under the parka where they will be kept warm and removed only for picture taking.

Condensation on lenses, caused by abrupt temperature changes, can be minimized by wrapping the camera in a plastic bag before bringing it indoors. The wrapped camera then can be placed in a colder area where it will warm to room temperature gradually.

Do not breathe on any cold lens as warm breath freezes on contact. A camel's hair brush may be used to wipe accumulated snow from the lens.

The danger of frostbitten fingers is great. The wearing of light gloves is advisable. This prevents fingers from freezing to the bare metal of the camera when making adjustments. It is a good idea to attach chamois, tape, thin felt, or similar material to metal areas such as eyepieces or camera backs which may come in contact with bare skin.

Light meters operate accurately in extremely cold polar temperatures, and their use is recommended because intense reflective light can be deceptive. It is preferable to use the back of your hand for taking light meter readings rather than highly reflective surfaces such as snow.

Dry cell batteries are not dependable in the cold. If dry cell batteries must be used with flash equipment, they should be fresh ones. They operate best if they are warmed by being carried under outer clothing. If your camera has a built-in meter, its battery should also be fresh.

Although there is a small store at McMurdo, film supplies are limited and in some cases not obtainable. It is recommended that all film and accessories be purchased prior to leaving the United States. High speed film, such as High Speed Ektachrome, High Speed Kodachrome, Super Anscochrome, are not recommended for use outdoors in the Antarctic. However, the above films are satisfactory for indoor use. For outdoor shooting, an ASA between 64 and 200 is recommended. (Be sure your camera can accommodate ASA speeds below 100.) ASA film speeds are not appreciably affected by the cold. An ultraviolet 1A Skylight is recommended for use with color film outdoors to eliminate the harsh cold blue rendition that can be predominate in color photographs taken in the Antarctic. When shooting black-and-white film, a yellow filter should be used. At very low temperatures, photographic film becomes brittle. It is important to warm the camera first, then rewind the film slowly to prevent breakage and to avoid static electricity marks on the film.