While we’d never recommend anyone risk life or limb to get a snap of the weather in action, the impact of the elements can make an interesting photographic subject and in turn a great personalised canvas print - today we’re taking a little look at how to best capture rain in a photograph - photography tips 101.

Anyone who’s ever tried to shoot rain or even water close up will know it can be tricky to stop it from disappearing altogether. When you get it right it can also be very beautiful and photos of something as simple as a raindrop are among the most accomplished things we transfer to canvas prints here at parrotprint.com. Our unique up-sampling algorithm means the beauty of such things when you transfer your photos to canvas with us isn’t lost, thanks to our anti-pixelation guarantee. So, what should you be doing to ensure you take a photograph that is canvas print-worthy? Follow our three simple tips and you’ll be well on your way:

Try to protect you and your camera

Carry your camera in a waterproof case and also have something like a plastic bag with a hole for your lens to hand, should you need to stand to take a shot. Of course, looking out for covered nooks and porches or carrying an umbrella can also help you and your camera stay dry, allowing you to take more time capturing your perfect photo. Alternatively, you may be able to shoot from your car with the window open, staying dry and warm while you shoot! If you end up freezing cold and shaky it will be even harder to take the photo. Check out these camera protectors.

Backlight your rain

Shooting towards light sources will help raindrops to stand out against other elements of your scene. Try and find the sun peeping behind the clouds, use a street light or harness the power of car headlights. Try injecting just a little flash too – it doesn’t always work but it can really illuminate raindrops. If you do have an umbrella, you can also use it to create contrasting shadows in the shot.

Shoot fast

If you’re aiming to freeze the rain in your shot you’ll need to shoot very fast indeed. Open up your lens and select a fast shutter speed. Alternatively, if you’d prefer it to look like it’s raining, aim for a slightly longer shutter speed.

Once you’ve secured that perfect shot of rain, why not create your own collection of photographs showing the full range of weather conditions and their impact upon a particular scene or spot? Transferred to a photo canvas, weather shots can make a lovely photographic study and are a fantastic reminder of all the time and effort you put into capturing the perfect photograph, particularly in more hostile weather! Photography tips 101.