Working in the Rain

As a sports and landscape guy, working in the rain comes with the territory, one can't simply say no thank you and not cover the event.  With some preparation, you and your gear can stay pretty dry, and you'll get moody and exciting photos as well.

The Gear:

Canon 1D MK II
70-200 2.8 USM. 

The Camera Protection:

Kata Pro-light Rain Cover
Think Tank Photo Shapeshifter Backpack
Think Tank Photo Skin Set with Skin Belt

The Person Protection:

Outdoor Research Seattle Sombrero
Marmot Precip Pants
Marmot Precip Jacket
USCG Foul Weather Parka II (if really nasty out)

What To Do:

The 1D is weather sealed for a good bit, as is the 70-200 2.8 if you place a UV filter on the front.  For minor drizzles and light rain, this is all the protection you need, however covering a 1/2 Marathon, like the Flying Pirate 1/2 on the Outer Banks, brings up prolonged exposure to the elements so more protection is needed.

The Kata slips over the lens and body, and has two arm holes for accessing the camera.  Clear PVC plastic lets you look at everything.  Unfortunately, said plastic get all smeary in a downpour and it requires a bit of Velcro on the lens hood to really stay in place.  Think Tank makes their Hydrophobia series, which has integrated eye pieces.  I would really like to tryout the Hyrdophobia and review it sometime as its features are more skewed towards the processional for full time protection rather than a quick fix.

The Marmot Precip jacket and pants are light weight waterproof and breathable.  The jacket contains pit zips so you do not overheat, this is the same rain gear I use for hiking and backpacking.  Over 8 years old they still bead water and are very comfortable.  I hate hoods so I use the rain hat.  The hat allows for better coverage of your face and camera as opposed to a hood.  It also doubles for sun protection on clear days.

You will want to use a lens hood to protect the front element from rain and spray, also keep a microfibre cloth handy for wiping drops off as well as clearing the view plastic of the Kata. 

With this setup you should be able to keep dry in the middle of monsoon season.