Freezing hmc-150.

According to the specifications listed in the operational manual of the camera, the operating temperature for the camera is 32-104 degrees fahrenheit. That's pretty typical though. There are many accounts of users operating their cameras below 32 degrees, so it is definitely a possibility. Obviously the longer the camera is exposed to extreme temperatures the faster a malfunction may occur. I would suspect the LCD's would be the first to be affected by the cold temperatures. At least there are minimal moving parts with a tapeless camera like the HMC150.

If you are really worried about it, you should look into a jacket, or housing for the camera, which would provide some additional protection from the elements. PortaBrace makes something called a "Polar Mitten" for cameras in this size category. At a cost of 1/10th the price of the camera, it may be a smart investment. Take a look:

http://portabrace.com/productA-POL-MVX200_XH
 
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I took my HMC to Canada with me and the temps got down to almost 0 degrees F and it was well into the negatives on the Celsius scale. The only noticeable thing was the focus ring was stiff which seems to be a common occurrence with the HMC-150. The only thing I would be worried about is condensation forming from going in and out of a warm room or the condensation actually freezing on the inside if it does develop. The HMC is a very resilient and tough camera but I would still be cautious as it is a very intricate piece of technology.
 
I use disposable heat packs/glove warmers I attach either to the inside of my petrol rain cover - my GF added little pockets to the cover. They help keep the camera super warm :-D up here in AK
 
I've shot in -50f temps with my hpx and shoot in 0 and below temps often. Focus ring was absolutely worthless, lcd and viewfinder struggled a bit, but other than that, it was fine.
 
Ya, I echo the focus ring and LCD comments. I dread having to shoot outside in the cold here in Winnipeg (which is about half the year), and had I known about the gummy focus ring, I would not have gotten the 150. Forget a gentle rack focus, or any other subtle moves, that thing binds tight.

The actual lens mechanism works fine, a remote focus control is probably something you would want to look into.

The LCD 'slows down' in the cold as well, gets very smeary , looks like you are shooting at 1/30th or 1/15th shutter. Depends what you are doing, it doesn't bother me that much, but impossible to judge focus on the fly. I actually use a $20 CRT tv from Canadian Tire I picked up years ago, the image blooms a little, but for a portable (and cheap) field monitor in these conditions, works like a charm.

My new 501 head is also a stubborn beast in the cold.

Cold is not my friend.
 
So what's the right HD camera for that kind of condition? Meaning outside in sub zero C conditions for long periods? Snowboard/Skiing, etc. What is rated for that kind of conditions?
 
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