It looks like the Country Music Marathon has 100% chance of rain.

How do you prepare to photograph in the rain?

1. Have an element cover for your camera and large enough for a telephoto lens. Kata is one that seems to work well. Make sure there is no condensation building up on your lens. Be prepared with your photo towel to keep it dry if necessary.

2. Have rain gear. While gore-tex is expensive, if you are out there shooting for 6-7 hours, waterproof will not work. The temperature will be 10+ degrees cooler. Sometimes a heavy-duty poncho will work.

3. Big umbrella, if it isn’t too windy. Attach it to a tripod with either a clamp or duct tape. If you are at the finish line up against a railing, then you could attach it to that as well. You can also tuck it under your arm tightly.

4. Have comfortable boots because you probably will be doing some walking. Rubber boots that go up about 14″, or hunting boots.

5. Bring a medium size towel to dry off the equipment or you if needed.

Enjoy the time and experience…nothing you can do to change the weather. Remember to FOCUS!