Street Photography with an umbrella? Am I talking about the dumb fake silhouette with umbrella trend seen anywhere on social media for years now? No, I am talking about Street Photography in the rain. To go out with your camera when it’s rainy takes some effort, but it’s worth it! It’s always a good thing if you move out of your comfort zone for a few hours – especially when you are one of the “sunny weather” Street Photographers I have been – and still am – for years. If you are doing Street Photography in the rain, you just need to focus on the “rainy” stuff like wet streets, umbrellas, running people jumping over puddles memorizing Henri Cartier Bresson or the beautiful, gloomy light after a summer rain.
Another good reason for Street Photography in the rain is that everybody is so keen to get home quickly that nobody will care if you are taking photos. It’s really fun, try it out! And please – protect your camera. Very few of the modern cameras are really waterproof.
Here are some examples of rainy Street Photography I´ve done this year in Germany and Italy:
The best 5 weather-proof lenses for Street Photography
1. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM:
This weather-proof lens is ideal for street photographers who crave sharp and vibrant shots. With a 50mm focal distance, you can capture stunning detailed shots that bring out the beauty of your subject. It’s also compact and lightweight, making it easy for photographers to carry it around.
2. Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G:
The versatile Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G is an excellent weather-proof lens that offers excellent clarity and brightness in low light settings. It’s sturdy and robust, making it ideal for photographers who want a lens that can withstand harsh weather conditions. With its wide-angle focal length, this lens can capture a more extensive view of your subject and its surroundings.
3. Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art DG HSM Lens:
The Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art DG HSM lens is perfect for street photographers who want the versatility of a zoom lens. It covers a broad range of focal lengths, which makes it perfect for capturing both landscapes and portraits. With its fast aperture, you can snap stunning photos in low light conditions and get a beautiful bokeh effect that will make your photos stand out.
4. Sony FE 50mm F1.8:
The Sony FE 50mm F1.8 is a budget-friendly weather-proof lens that delivers exceptional image quality and sharpness. It’s lightweight, making it an ideal lens for street photographers who want to capture candid moments without attracting much attention. With its large aperture, the Sony FE 50mm F1.8 can blur the background and bring the subject into sharp focus.
5. Fujifilm XF 35mm F2 R WR:
The Fujifilm XF 35mm F2 R WR is a compact and versatile weather-proof lens that produces tack sharp images. It’s an excellent choice for photographers who want to shoot discreetly and capture candid moments. With its fast autofocus and compact size, it’s perfect for street photographers who want to capture spontaneous moments in sporting events, concerts, or street festivals.