Rather than spending a lot of time editing out little
specks of dust in post-production or sacrificing the quality of your
images, get into the habit of regularly cleaning your camera. Although
some of the newer dSLR cameras have internal cleaning systems that remove
dust from the sensors, even these cameras don't fully remove all of the
dust. If you want to have spotless images and extend the life of your
camera, there's nothing better than a thorough but gentle cleaning. Just
arm yourself with a lens cleaning kit and find a clean, dust-free area of
the house with plenty of light.
Cleaning Lenses
Because camera lenses are expensive to replace or repair, it's essential
that you clean them carefully. Always start with a dry cleaning. Use a
blower to remove any dust particles from the lens. Avoid sweeping a soft
cloth over the lens because this can pull dust particles across the glass,
scratching it. Also, use a small pen brush to gently sweep in between the
moving parts of the barrel of the lens. This will eliminate dust and keep
the barrel working smoothly. Always use clean brushes to clean your camera
so you don't transfer dirt onto the lens.
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Cleaning Lenses
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How Do I Clean the Camera Lens?
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Summertime Tune-Up For Your Camera
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How to Clean a Lens the Right Way
Cleaning the Camera Sensor
Out of all of the parts that make up a camera, the sensor is the most
delicate. It's basically the heart of the camera. The sensor is easily
damaged, so if you're not sure about cleaning it yourself, have a
professional do it for you. Fully charge the camera's batteries before
setting it to manual with a 30-second exposure. After opening the shutter,
blow dust from the sensor with the blower. Ensure that you hold the camera
so the sensor faces down and dust particles can easily fall out. For
severe dust, use a moist cleaning. Gently sweep a lint-free pad that's
lightly moistened with cleaning fluid over the sensor.
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Sensors Explained
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Sensor Technologies and Specifications
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Sensor Cleaning
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Digital Camera Sensor Analysis
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Camera Sensor Cleaning
Cleaning the Mirror/Focusing Screen
Dust and dirt on the mirror and focusing screen of the camera won't affect
photographs. However, if a lot of dust is present, it might impact your
ability to focus. A quick blow with an air can can eliminate any dust.
Always be gentle because the mirror of the camera can get easily damaged.
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Digital Camera Cleaning and Maintenance
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Giving Your Camera a Check-up (PDF)
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Protecting Your Digital Camera Investment
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Tips for Keeping Your Camera Clean
Cleaning the Outer Casing
The outer casing of a camera is often what persuades consumers to purchase
it. It basically determines the appearance of the camera. If the outer
casing is dusty or dirty, it's best to clean it off. Not only will this
maintain the aesthetic appeal of the camera, but it will also prevent dirt
from getting on the inside of the camera. A quick but gentle wipe with a
damp cloth should do the trick. Always clean the outer casing before
cleaning any other parts of the camera.
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Underwater Camera Maintenance
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Camera Maintenance and Storage
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Spring Cleaning: Clean Your dSLR Camera
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Clean Up Your Act: How to Clean a Camera (video)
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How to Clean a Camera
Cleaning the Accessories and Camera Bag
Cleaning the accessories that come with a camera is also essential to keep
them working correctly. Whether they are electric or mechanical, if the
accessories don't work right, it can be disastrous and impact your
photography significantly. Whether you're cleaning a battery charger or a
tripod, a swift blow with an air can or a gentle wipe with a soft cloth
can eliminate dust buildup. A dirty camera bag is bound to result in a
dirty camera. This is why it's essential to keep the camera bag clean at
all times. To clean the bag, remove all equipment from it and vacuum the
inside of the bag until any signs of dirt, dust, and sand are gone.
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Taking Care of Your Digital Camera
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How to Clean and Maintain Your Camera and Lenses
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Digital Camera Basic Knowledge: Maintenance
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Taking Care of Your Digital Camera
Cleaning a Smartphone Camera: Care and Protection
Many people use their Smartphone to take photos or record videos because
they always have it with them. To continuously get quality photos and
footage, cleaning the lens is a must. To do this, use a microfiber cloth
or a Q-tip. Avoid using a paper tissue because this can leave tiny
scratches on the lens. Lightly dampen the cloth or Q-tip with lens
cleaning solution, and wipe it over the lens in a circular motion. To keep
the lens as clean as possible, always carry your Smartphone in a case.
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How to Clean Your Gross Gadgets (video)
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Snappy Tips for Taking Better Pictures With Your
Smartphone
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How to Clean Your Cell Phone