Keeping Camera Cool In Hot Cars: Tips For Photographers

Cameras are sensitive pieces of equipment, and extreme heat can cause damage to their delicate parts. The inside of a car can get very hot, very quickly, and this can cause issues for your camera. So, what can you do to keep your camera cool in a hot car?

Use a cooler or insulated bag to store your camera

One way to keep your camera cool in a hot car is to use a cooler or insulated bag. This method can be effective, even without ice. The cooler acts as insulation, slowing down heat transfer and protecting your camera from extreme temperatures.

There are a variety of cooler bags available on the market that are specifically designed for this purpose. These bags are usually made of durable and waterproof materials, with high-density insulated foam padding. They are also lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry and store. Some bags even have adjustable and removable shoulder straps for added convenience.

In addition to using a cooler or insulated bag, it is recommended to follow a few other precautions to ensure your camera stays cool and safe. These include parking in the shade, covering your camera with a damp towel, and avoiding direct sunlight by storing your camera in the trunk of your car or behind the front seats. It is also important to allow your camera to cool down before use and to protect it from condensation by keeping it in a bag or protective case.

By taking these measures, you can help ensure that your camera does not suffer any long-term damage from exposure to high temperatures.

Avoid direct sunlight

Avoiding direct sunlight is one of the most important things to consider when trying to keep your camera cool in a hot car. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:

• Park in the shade : This is the easiest way to protect your camera from direct sunlight. Look for a parking spot under a tree or in a covered garage. If you can't find a shaded area, try to position your car so that the sun isn't shining directly through the windows.
• Use a windshield sun protector: These visors are easy to unfold and slide into place on your dashboard, blocking direct sunlight from entering the car.
• Tint your windows: Window tinting can reduce the amount of sunlight and harmful UV rays entering your vehicle. However, be sure to check your state's regulations on window tinting, as some states have specific restrictions.
• Use sun visors: Almost all vehicles are equipped with sun visors that can be positioned to block sunlight from the front windshield or side windows. This is an effective way to block direct sunlight without hindering your visibility while driving.
• Adjust your driving route and schedule: If possible, choose routes surrounded by tall buildings or trees, which can help block sun glare. Additionally, consider adjusting your schedule to avoid driving during the hottest times of the day, typically an hour before sunset and an hour after sunrise.
• Utilise a camera bag or case: When leaving your camera in the car, always store it in a camera bag or protective case. This will not only help keep the equipment cool but also hide it from potential thieves.
• Use a cooler: If you need to leave your camera in the car for an extended period, place it inside a cooler without ice to help regulate the temperature. You can also drape a white towel over the cooler to provide additional protection from the heat.
• Consider the colour of your camera: Black cameras tend to absorb more heat than those of lighter colours. If you have a black camera, consider using a reflective cloth or towel to drape over it when shooting in direct sunlight.

Use a light-coloured cloth to cover your camera

Keeping your camera cool in a hot car is essential to prevent damage to the equipment. One way to do this is to use a light-coloured cloth to cover your camera. This method can be used whether you are storing your camera in the car or actively shooting with it.

When storing your camera in the car, it is best to keep it in a cooler, in the trunk, and covered with a light-coloured cloth or towel. This will protect it from overheating and also hide it from potential thieves. If you are unable to put the camera in the trunk, make sure to keep it out of direct sunlight and cover it with a light-coloured cloth.

When actively shooting in hot weather, it is recommended to cover your camera with a light-coloured cloth, protecting it from the sun. This is especially important if you are taking a break and your camera is sitting idle. You can also drape a light-coloured cloth over your head and the camera to provide additional shade.

Black cameras absorb heat, so using a light-coloured, reflective cloth will help to keep the camera cool. A white towel secured to the lens with a rubber band can provide quick access to your controls while also keeping the camera cool.

In addition to using a light-coloured cloth, there are other measures you can take to protect your camera from the heat. These include turning down power usage, watching for condensation, and minimising heat-producing camera settings.

Turn off camera settings that generate heat

To keep your camera cool in a hot car, it is important to turn off camera settings that generate heat. Here are some tips to help you do that:

• Set Live View off: Live View can increase the heat factor, so it is advisable to turn it off. Instead, use the viewfinder to compose your shots.
• Shorten the auto-off setting: Adjust the auto-off setting so that the camera powers down quickly when not in use. This will help reduce the overall heat generated by the camera.
• Turn off constant automatic photo review: If your camera has a setting that automatically reviews photos after capture, turn it off. This feature can generate heat and drain your battery.
• Use a flip screen: If your camera has a flip screen, you can flip it out to allow heat to dissipate from the camera body.
• Open the battery door: Opening the battery door can help dissipate heat, especially if you are shooting video or time-lapse photography.
• Use a longer mounting plate: If you need to access the battery compartment while the camera is mounted on a tripod, a longer mounting plate can provide the necessary clearance.

By turning off these heat-generating settings and features, you can help keep your camera cool when shooting in hot environments or when storing it in a hot car. Remember to also take other precautions, such as using a cooler and reflective cloth, to further protect your camera from extreme temperatures.

Avoid condensation by using desiccants

Condensation is a common issue when storing cameras in hot cars, and it can lead to mould growth and damage your equipment. To avoid this, you can use desiccants, which are substances that absorb moisture. Here are some tips on using desiccants to keep your camera cool and dry in a hot car:

• Choose the Right Desiccant: Silica gel is a commonly used desiccant that can be found in small packets or as loose beads. You can also find reusable desiccant canisters that change colour when they need to be dried in an oven.
• Protect Your Camera: Place the desiccant packets or beads inside your camera bag or storage container. This will help absorb any moisture that could condense on your camera equipment.
• Keep the Desiccant Dry: To reuse your desiccant, make sure to dry it out periodically. You can do this by placing it in an oven at a low temperature for a few hours or using a microwave on the defrost setting for a few minutes.
• Be Cautious: While silica gel is non-toxic, it should not be ingested. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Combine with Other Methods: Using desiccants is just one way to keep your camera cool in a hot car. Combining it with other methods, such as storing your camera in a cooler or insulated bag, can provide even better protection.

By following these tips, you can effectively use desiccants to avoid condensation and keep your camera equipment safe and dry in hot car conditions.

Frequently asked questions