Shooting in snow.

[Swimming_Bird]

It's snowing out to night and i really want to go out and take some photos. I was wondering how I should protect my camera from the falling snow?
I'm also concerned about shooting with the camera angled upward and getting snow on the lens.

If the best option is an umbrella, any suggestions for mounting it to the tripod?

Also, just so you know, I just got my first nice camera and i'm still using the kit lens with the XTi.

[Agata]

I would use plastic wrap or a bag on the body. I don't really know what you could do to protect the lens. Umbrella is a good idea too!

[FrankenPengie]

Is the kit lens a UV lens? That should protect it fine.