Great photos can be taken in any weather, but some weather situations make the endeavor considerably more difficult. Rain is probably the most challenging. You want to protect yourself and, above all, your camera. Analog cameras in particular are particularly vulnerable, as they are rarely waterproof or even water-resistant.
Photographers are thus faced with the dilemma of having to prepare for possible rain showers without burdening their already heavy equipment with unnecessary ballast. There is hardly anything more annoying than carrying a clumsy umbrella around all day, only to find that not a single drop falls from the sky.
A possible solution to the problem could be the Verykal 8 3M from the Japanese company Amvel, an umbrella that, with its flat design and low weight, represents an interesting alternative for photographers.
Material, Size, and Weight
The Verykal 8 3M umbrella is part of the Verykal series. The series is characterized by its automatic opening and closing function in a compact size.
The canopy is made of a fine 30-denier polyester fabric, which despite its lightness, is highly durable. A special “Easy-Dry” coating ensures a permanently strong water-repellent effect, allowing the umbrella to dry quickly after use and thus be stowed away again swiftly.
A special feature of this model is the integration of reflective 3M Scotchlite material. This is printed directly onto the fabric, which, compared to sewn-on reflective strips, has the advantage that it cannot detach and does not affect the umbrella’s waterproofing or lightness. This retroreflective property significantly increases the wearer’s visibility in the dark and in poor lighting conditions.
The frame of the umbrella consists of eight ribs. Carbon fiber is used as the main material for the ribs. There is also a version with only six ribs; this one is slightly lighter but a bit less robust. The manufacturer states that the umbrella can withstand wind speeds of up to 15 m/s.
When closed, the Verykal 8 3M impresses with its extremely flat shape, which allows it to be transported space-savingly in a photo bag or even a larger jacket pocket. When open, with a diameter of about one meter, it offers sufficient protection for one to two people along with a camera or camera bag. The weight of only about 230 grams is a decisive advantage for photographers who rely on light equipment.
Functions
In addition to its primary function as rain protection, the Verykal 8 3M offers a range of features that make it particularly useful in everyday photographic life. First and foremost is the automatic opening and closing mechanism.
A simple press of a button on the handle is enough to open or close the umbrella, which is particularly practical when you are holding the camera in your other hand and need to react quickly to a sudden downpour. Only the sliding of the shaft is done manually.
Packing the umbrella is also as simple as can be. Thanks to its flat design and quick-drying material, it can be easily slid back into the included case without much effort. This is an advantage that should not be underestimated when you are on the go and do not want to transport a wet umbrella loosely in your bag.
The reflective properties of the 3M material are a significant safety feature, especially for photographers who often work at dusk or at night. Whether during street photography in a busy city or landscape shots on a poorly lit road, the increased visibility can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. This makes the umbrella a perfect choice when you want to take photos, especially at night, as it contributes to your own safety in addition to protecting you from the elements.
Conclusion
The Verykal 8 3M is a great option if you are looking for a folding umbrella.
The combination of high-quality, lightweight materials, a wind-stable construction, and practical features like the one-button automatic make it a valuable companion. Its low weight and flat shape ensure that it fits easily into most pockets and that you can take it with you without hesitation even with an uncertain weather forecast.
The automatic opening mechanism is a clear comfort and safety plus, allowing you to protect your expensive camera equipment from moisture in seconds. You only need one free hand, which is really very convenient.
The reflective elements of the fabric also give you a good feeling in low light conditions.
The umbrella can be purchased in the Amvel shop. More information on specifications and other models can be found on the product page.
As someone who often does street photography, the struggle with unexpected rain is real. This umbrella, with its quick-dry feature and especially the reflectiveness, would be a lifesaver for those dusk or night shoots.
Thanks for this detailed review!
Never heard about this brand!
Interesting solution presented here. The problem of balancing protection for gear with portability is a common one for photographers. The design and stated features like the flat shape and quick-drying material certainly address many of the typical annoyances associated with carrying an umbrella.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been caught out by a sudden shower while out shooting, cursing my bulky backpack or the flimsy umbrella I decided not to bring. The idea of something so compact and light that also offers genuine protection and even safety features is really appealing. It changes the whole mindset of ‘do I really need an umbrella today?’
Smart people in Japan
Wow, this looks like exactly what I’ve been searching for! The flat design and light weight are absolute game-changers for anyone carrying camera gear. Protecting analog cameras in the rain is always a nightmare, and this umbrella seems to solve that perfectly without adding bulk. Definitely adding this to my kit list!