Archive 2017 · How much does weatherproofing help?

tzhang4284
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · How much does weatherproofing help?

I noticed that none of the new Sigma lenses announced have any weatherproofing compared to many of their canon, nikon and Sony equivalents. I also remember the Batis lenses were used heavily in the soaking rain along with the a7 ii in their promo videos - the recent rain in northern california also reminded me of that. With that said, id like to ask - how much of an impact does weatherproofing have to lens survival and what difference in protection does it make, if at all?

Feb 21, 2017 at 09:21 PM

phuviano
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · How much does weatherproofing help?

I can't speak for everyone, but from my own experience. I used an A7 with a rokinon 14 f2.8, connected with a metabones adapter (nikon mount). I'm sure none of this equipment is considered to be weather sealed. It was in light to moderate rain. Had no issues with the camera. I was on vacation as well, so the camera was used quite a bit after that rainfall.

Also used my current A7ii with the fe16-35. I shot in heavy rainfall, and no issues to this day. I still have the same A7ii, and that rainfall was 2 years ago. I only shot in the rain beachse i was in Japan, and it was my last night there. I paid some money to go up a building to have a nice view. Even though it was raining heavy, i got a few good pics. I was in the rain for a good 2 mins.

I can't guarantee that your camera won't get destroyed by rain, but these are my experiences. Nothing has happened to me. Ymmv depending on who you talk to though.

I usually don't purposely go shooting in the rain. However, if i'm on vacation, i'll risk it, since i might not be in these certain locations again.

Feb 22, 2017 at 12:27 AM

Slalom
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · How much does weatherproofing help?

I am Puzzled too, I guess the key is the electronics.

Many years ago after a Mets game, there were fireworks (4JUL?), so I arrived with my tripod OM2N and Zuiko 50mm f1.4. As the game ended I set it up while the lights were on (pointing upwards to cover the sky), then the clouds burst. So in 30 seconds I am drenched and so is the camera.

Do I disturb it? Probably not. Do I try and dry it, only if the rain stops. And only the controls and filter.

I took some shots, a few keepers.Took it off the tripod, turned it over in a forward roll to give water a chance to disperse, put it in a wet backpack.

I still have the camera and lens and neither is the worse for wear.

So I only worry about all the electrics. The battery chamber is on the bottom so that is an advantage if not in a puddle. the card slot and connections are at the sides so the sealing is important, the controls are much multiplied and on all sorts of surfaces, so are probably the weak point.

Then there is changing the lens, I guess a firm positive connection is best and a good design so the surrounding back face of the lens is tight on the camera. A zoom is perhaps your friend, if it is reasonably weather tight as they have more control rings.

Feb 22, 2017 at 03:26 AM

mcbroomf
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · How much does weatherproofing help?

tzhang4284 wrote:
I noticed that none of the new Sigma lenses announced have any weatherproofing compared to many of their canon, nikon and Sony equivalents. I also remember the Batis lenses were used heavily in the soaking rain along with the a7 ii in their promo videos - the recent rain in northern california also reminded me of that. With that said, id like to ask - how much of an impact does weatherproofing have to lens survival and what difference in protection does it make, if at all?

The 14mm/1.8 Art has this (I've not checked the other lens specs);

"Mount with dust- and splash-proof design
Since the area of the lens most vulnerable to dust and other foreign bodies is the mount, rubber sealing* helps provide peace of mind. In addition, the front lens element features a water- and oil-repellant coating that helps the lens perform well in the rain, near water, and in other challenging conditions.

* Except for SIGMA mount"

Feb 22, 2017 at 05:46 AM

Etherton
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · How much does weatherproofing help?

I used an A7RII and a Loxia 21mm last year at the Niagara Falls Hurricane Deck. No issues here and got plenty wet. I tried my best to bag the lens and body but it was a futile cause. Kept a small towel and tried to dry it off as quick as I could between shots. Must use the YMMV disclosure.

Feb 22, 2017 at 09:19 AM

JimUe
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · How much does weatherproofing help?

i've shot a a900 + 20 year old minolta lenses in a giant torrential down pour for maybe 30 minutes. from what i call sony suggested the body was weather resistant but didn't indicate any seals and the lenses had no weather sealing at all. i shielded with my hands as best as i could the area around the lens mount. it got pretty wet. when i returned inside, i let everything air dry for a couple of days. that was 6 years ago and zero problems since.

i wouldn't make it a habit, but i'd trust the dslr bodies on occasion.

Feb 22, 2017 at 10:11 AM

tzhang4284
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p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · How much does weatherproofing help?

Thanks for the replies - ive had no issues with using my loxia lenses in light rain although i always bag it asap. More curious what does an advertised weatherproof design like the batis or some of the fuji/olympus lenses get me over basic protection.

Feb 22, 2017 at 11:14 AM


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