Operating temperature range for cameras?

12 years 5 months ago #171112 by The Original Daisy
With winter coming around the corner I was just wondering what is the coldest that a camera will work at? While on topic, what is the warmest?


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12 years 5 months ago #171205 by cod
I don't know about extremes but I've been out shooting locally at around -20 to -25 degrees C (about -10 F). That's a normal winter here in Winnipeg. The camera worked fine. The two issues are:

1. Condensation. The camera needs time to adjust to the temperature. It should stay in its case or wrapped with a plastic bag until it has adjusted to the outside temp or moisture problems could occur.

2. Battery life. At those temps batteries don't last long at all (They're fine once they've warmed up again.) I've used two, one in camera and one kept warm near my body which I swap in later. Even so I get less than an hour of useful time - not that I want to be out much longer than that anyway.

My ancient Nikon FE film camera had an optional external battery pack with a power cord so that one could keep the batteries warm inside clothing in winter. As far as I know Nikon don't seem to make such things anymore.

Chris O'Donoghue
Winnipeg, Canada
codonoghue.prosite.com

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12 years 5 months ago #171285 by effron
As Chris stated, condensation, and battery life are the real issues. In general, if YOU can stand the cold or heat, the camera will have no problems, they just need acclimation time.....B)

Why so serious?
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12 years 5 months ago #171291 by Joves
Get a large Ziplock bag to put your camera in if you take it from cold to heat. This will allow the air in the bag to heat up slower and keep condensation from forming.


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12 years 5 months ago #171296 by Baydream

Joves wrote: Get a large Ziplock bag to put your camera in if you take it from cold to heat. This will allow the air in the bag to heat up slower and keep condensation from forming.

Then get a bigger Zip-Lock bag and put yourself in it. :toocrazy: Keeps your glasses from misting over.

Shoot, learn and share. It will make you a better photographer.
fineartamerica.com/profiles/john-g-schickler.html?tab=artwork

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12 years 5 months ago #171372 by Flash Steven
When too cold? When your tongue sticks to the camera! :rofl:

Canon 7D w/grip, Canon 40D, Canon 70-200mm f2.8 IS L Canon MPE 65mm f2.8 macro; Sigma 70-300mm f2.8; Sigma 150mm f2.8 macro; Sigma 8-16mm f4.5-5.6
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