How I Manage India’s Heat as a Photographer
If you’ve visited India before, then you know it’s not only about the heat; there’s also some nasty humidity to deal with. During the summer months, that can make a 95F day feel like a 123F day when the humidity is clinging to you at 70 percent. This isn’t an uncommon scenario, by the way.
So how do I manage India’s heat as a photographer? I’ll cover a few practical tips for surviving the worst of the summer months in India if you happen to be out taking pictures. All of these tips I follow myself so there’s nothing experimental in the way of information.
1. Don’t Go Out in It
Let’s cover a few obvious tips first. The best way to avoid heat stroke or worst is to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Generally speaking, if I’m taking clients out during one of my workshops, we’ll usually start before sunrise and end by 11 am or so. If you’re a photographer of any experience then you already know about the Golden Hour and likely won’t be interested in shooting much beyond this time frame. But for those of you who want to put good time in shooting, be out shooting no later than 7 am and finish-up by 11 am or even 12 pm if you have a lot of ground to cover.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drink fluids, plenty of water. I don’t personally carry water with me because I can pick up water along the way or, if I’m lucky, find a vendor who’s selling coconut water. There’s not a lot to say about this one. Drink fluids or risk heatstroke or death.
3. Apply SPF 50 Sunscreen
I can’t believe that I only started routinely following this advice until recent. But it’s highly effective if you’re a fair-skinned person. I lather the stuff on liberally, covering face, ears, and neck. I’ll cover my arms and legs too completely because I’m typically dressed short-sleeved and shorts. For my troubles, I don’t get burned anymore. It’s quite amazing, actually, because I used to get so red when I used to go without sunscreen. Also, don’t go for the cheap stuff. Get the top SPF-rated sunscreen and go with it. In most of the stores here, SPF 50 is the best you can usually find.
4. Wear a Headscarf, Bandana, or Hat
I don’t always follow but there are phases when I find myself wearing something on my head. The main reason for me is to help keep the sweat out of my eyes. The sunscreen otherwise protects my skin. If you’re not used to being out in heavy sun, consider a hat no matter how stupid it may look.
5. Avoid Backpacks and Extra Gear
This may not always be an option but if you’re shooting in the city where you’re staying, avoid extra baggage. Stick to carrying your camera, maybe an extra lens, batteries, etc. Whatever that can fit in a practical shoulder bag. We photographers know the value of traveling light whenever we can.
The reason I try to avoid backpacks in general is because they really make you sweat. If you’re planning on stopping at a cafe or restaurant after a shoot, then maybe the I-just-fell-into-a-swimming-pool look isn’t what you’re going for during your catwalk entrance. It’s certainly not my best look.
Bonus tip: if you’re planning on doing any slow shutter speed work, I’d recommend a minimum of an ND6 Neutral Density filter. No extra sweat for packing one of these.
That’s all I’ve got. Short and sweet.
Let me know any tips you’d like to offer in the comments below.
