Nikon D3100 Advice For Taking Photos In Snow?

[Sellergarth]

Going on holiday to Austria in January and was wondering if anyone has any advice regarding getting the best results when taking photos of snow in bright sunlight and clear blue sky? I will be using a Nikon D3100. Thanks.

[Buenchico]

I wouldn't even consider taking such photographs without using a polarizer:
http://www.nikonusa.com/en/Learn-And-Explore/Article/gl1uy3i0/polarizing-filters-add-pow-to-pictures.html

[quizman55]

Also you will probably need to dial in at least plus one stop exposure compensation, otherwise the pictures will be underexposed leading to grey snow instead of white.

[Buenchico]

Use a proper grey card to get the exposure right:
http://digital-photography-school.com/get-your-white-balance-right-in-seconds-using-grey-card/

[mjwman]

I think there is a snow/beach scene mode on the 3100 if so use that.
If not set on program os S or A and increase the EV by + 1.5.

The meter sees ann average scene which when all mixed up equates to a mid grey nmand exposes for that. On a beach or in snow it is brighter than average so it will come out dark unless you inmcrease the exposure to compensate.
If you flick the joystick up you will see a histogram of the exposure. The graph should be in the middle. if to the left it is under exoposed so increase thew EV as above.

Finally, if you shoot RAW rather than jpg. it does not matter as you can then process the images after. Raw keeps all the detail whereas jpgs are processed and discard useful info that can be used.

Finally finally go to white balance take a snow shot and use that to make a pre set colour balance value for that shooting situation.

If that lot makes sort of scence, look it up in the manual or on You|Tube to qualify it.

[Sellergarth]

Thanks to all who for taking the time to reply, it`s greatly appreciated.

[EDDIE51]

Get a rotary Polarizing filter to put on the front of the lens. It will cut out the glare , increase colour saturation and give clouds and sky more contrast.
What size is your filter mount ?
Polarization is the only filter effect that can not duplicated in photo editing programs.

[EDDIE51]

Click on this link to see the effect of a polarizing filter
https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=polarising+filter+effect&rlz=1T4TSEH_enGB388GB388&;tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=Kb9rVKbhE83laLWMgbgH&ved=0CC8QsAQ&biw=1366&bih=543
I just happen to have a ' Mint' Hoya 49mm Rotary polarizer on eBay now , let me know if you are interested and I will give you the item number, only £5 !

[EDDIE51]

Tips for shooting in the snow here
http://dpexperience.com/2009/12/24/let-it-snow-let-it-snow-top-tips-for-cool-snow-shots/
Scroll down to 'Don't forget to pack the polariser'

[Sellergarth]

Thanks EDDIE51 for the advice and links. I would require a 52mm filter, but thanks for the offer.

[EDDIE51]

Sold a 52mm one last week but there are plenty on ebay.

[Sellergarth]

Thanks again EDDIE51 the info is appreciated.

[mjwman]

A polariser is an aid, yes, but it is not the answer.
Get the exposure and white balance first... Then you can play with polarisers.
They only work with directional light though so sunny day only.

[EDDIE51]

^^ The light in a snow scene is 90% reflected so a rotary polariser will cut out as much or as little of that reflection as you want.
On a dull day ALL the light is reflected and so polarised. Your statement 'on a sunny day only' is wrong.
I see what you mean as direct sunlight is not polarised and so is not affected by a polarizer but in any scene there is direct and reflected light.
White balance and exposure are vital but a rotary polariser will increase colour saturation and contrast.