For more on Burning Man, see my article in the
Man with Camera at Burning Man Fire Dancer Man

Ten Photo Tips for Burning Man

  1. Take your gear to the playa - don't be afraid to bring it.  Burning Man provides some of the best photo opportunities anywhere. Why did you get the equipment if you're not going to use it?

  2. But don't bring a ton of gear. Travel lightly. Carry only what you need for each outing. Leave the rest safely at camp. Too much gear on your shoulder will wear you down.

  3. Ask first. People hardly ever say no, but they'll appreciate you asking. Most people like getting their photos taken and it's an easy way to meet people doing amazing things.

  4. Don't spend your entire time shooting. If you only experience Burning Man behind the lens, you'll be missing a big part of it. Take a day off. You can always carry a cheap camera for "memory shots."

  5. Shoot without a flash whenever possible.  Burning Man has plenty of lights at night.  If you're using a point-and-shoot camera, cover or turn-off the flash. Otherwise you'll get hundreds of dust specks reflected in your shot.   If you have to use a flash and you're using an SLR, use a dome.

  6. Don't change lenses in a dust storm.

  7. If there is a lot of dust, it's a great time to shoot. Dust storms can make spectacular photographs.

  8. Best time of day: early morning and just before sunset. I get 70% of my best images just before and after sunset.

  9. Bring more memory cards than you think you could possibly need. Or bring a suitcase full of film.

  10. Clean your equipment thoroughly after you're home or have a professional service center do it.