LESSON 1
PHOTOGRAPHY IN DESERT REGIONS
TASK
Describe the procedures for operating and protecting camera and laboratory equipment in desert or dust-laden
climates.
CONDITIONS
Given information about desert conditions and protective procedures for cameras and laboratory equipment.
STANDARDS
Demonstrate competency of the task skills and knowledge by correctly responding to 80 percent of the multiple-
choice test covering the operation and protection of photographic equipment in desert conditions.
REFERENCES
TM 11-401
TM 11-401-1
TM 11-401-2
TM 11-6720-253-10
TM 11-6720-265-12
TM 11-6740-282-12
TM 11-6780-225-12
Learning Event 1:
OPERATE CAMERAS IN DESERT CONDITIONS
1.
Photographic equipment, like any precision-made equipment, requires a great deal of care. Dust, dirt,
and especially fine sand can render a camera or any other piece of photographic equipment useless.
Photographers have been documenting operations in the desert for many years. It can be done, has been done,
and is being done today. You may find yourself on a Visual Information Documentation Team working in the
desert. Understanding how to operate in this climate will make your job easier.
2.
The greatest problems in the desert are heat and blowing sand. You can become acclimated to heat but
your equipment must be protected from the direct rays of the sun as much as possible. Sand is another problem.
Desert sand can sometimes be as fine as powder. This fine sand can penetrate places you would not believe.
Unfortunately, it can penetrate your camera equipment and ruin lenses, camera mechanisms, enlargers, and just
about anything that moves. Many photographers, including Army photographers, use underwater cameras in the
desert. The most popular is the 35mm camera made by a leading Japanese camera company. These cameras will
keep water out and, therefore, will keep
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