Mini Test

Suit up and get shooting this spring without worrying about the weather

We look at six specialized photography vests and jackets to keep you dry and warm – and give you somewhere to stash all your important accessories…

Popping out for a casual spot of street photography rarely requires special clothing, but if you’re heading off the beaten track, it’s worth donning a decent coat focused on photography or outdoor pursuits.

Not only will this help protect you from the elements, such garments also tend to be plastered with pockets, making them ideal for stashing accessories and other essentials, such as the maps and snacks required for a long shoot.

Unlike a regular raincoat, jackets designed with wildlife photography in mind are usually constructed from quiet fabrics and can feature slits and openable flaps to make crouching more comfortable. You’re also likely to find a hood with a wired peak that’ll keep rain at bay without obscuring your view.

The biggest choice is whether to opt for a full-on jacket or a vest. Go for the latter if you intend to team it with your existing coat, but it should still be waterproof to safeguard kit stored within.