Keeping your camera clean is essential for ensuring that your photos turn out clear and crisp.
If you don’t clean your camera regularly, dirt and dust can build up on the lens and affect the quality of your shots.
In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for keeping your camera in top shape!
Why Cleaning Your Camera Is Important
Cleaning your camera body is important for two main reasons: to maintain its appearance and to keep the sensor and lens free of dirt and debris.
A clean camera will not only look better, but it will also perform better.
While small amounts of dust and dirt can be ignored in the short term, long-term build-up may cause issues with button performance and function — this is especially true for cameras that are not weather sealed!
Dust and other particles can interfere with the image quality, so it’s important to keep your camera clean.
What You Can Use To Clean Your Camera
Microfibre Cloth
A microfibre cloth is a special cloth used to clean delicate glass surfaces like reading glasses and camera lenses.
You can find them in most drugstores.
To clean your camera body, start by using a microfibre cloth to remove any dust or dirt.
Be sure to avoid rubbing the cloth too hard against the surface as this could scratch the camera body.
Once you’ve removed all of the visible debris, you can use a slightly dampened microfibre cloth to wipe down the camera body.
Allow it to air dry before using it again.
LensPen
A LensPen is a small cleaning tool that comes with a soft brush and a round cleaning pad.
It’s specifically designed for cleaning camera lenses, but it can also be used on other delicate surfaces like binocular lenses and telescope lenses.
To use it, simply extend the brush and lightly brush away any dust or dirt on the surface. Then, use the cleaning pad to remove any stubborn stains.
Blower Brush
A blower brush is a small, handheld tool that looks like a miniature version of a vacuum cleaner.
It’s specifically designed for removing dust and debris from delicate surfaces like camera lenses and computer screens.
To use it, simply hold the brush over the surface and press the button to activate the motor.
The suction will pull any dust or debris off of the surface and into the brush.
Be sure to hold the brush steady so that you don’t accidentally scratch the surface with the bristles.
Lens Spray
Lens spray is a special liquid spray which can be applied lightly to your camera lens.
This spray helps to remove any smudges or fingerprints which may be on your lens.
To use, simply spray a small amount onto the lens and then wipe it clean with a soft cloth.
Be sure to avoid getting any of the spray on the camera body as it could damage the finish.
Canned Air
Canned air is another great option for cleaning your camera lens.
It’s also useful for getting rid of dust that’s accumulated inside of your camera body.
To use, simply hold the can upright and point the nozzle towards the lens.
Press down on the can to release a burst of air and blow away any dust or debris that’s on the surface.
Be sure to keep the can moving so that you don’t accidentally freeze anything.
How To Clean Your Camera
Cleaning Your Camera Body
To clean the outside of your camera body, you can use a soft cloth or a brush.
Be sure to avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these can damage the finish of your camera.
If there are stubborn spots, you can try using a mild soap and water solution.
Tip: For small detailed areas, try using a Q-tip with a small amount of cleaning solution.
Cleaning Your Camera Lens
To clean your camera’s lens, start by removing the lens from your camera (if removable).
Be careful not to touch or scratch the glass on either end of your lens.
Use a blower brush or compressed air to remove any dust from both sides of your lens.
Once the dust is removed, spray your lens’ glass lightly with lens cleaner spray.
Use a microfibre cloth to lightly and gently wipe your lens glass in a circular motion.
Once clean, wait for any excess cleaning spray to evaporate before returning your lens to your camera body.
Cleaning Your Camera Sensor
Disclaimer: Camera sensors are VERY sensitive. There are many professional sensor cleaning services available. This service typically costs around $75. If you choose to clean your camera sensor yourself, be VERY careful.
For cleaning your camera sensor, it’s best to consult the manual for specific instructions.
In general, you will need to begin by removing the lens before cleaning your sensor.
Be careful not to touch the sensor with your fingers, as this could leave smudges or fingerprints.
You can use a blower brush or compressed air to remove any dust or dirt from the sensor.
This is an important step as wiping dust or dirt around your lens could cause scratches
Once this step is complete, use a clean sensor brush to gently wipe your camera’s sensor.
How Often Should You Clean Your Camera?
It’s a good idea to clean your camera body and lenses regularly, especially if you use them often.
If you live in a dusty or sandy environment, you may need to clean more frequently.
It’s also a good idea to clean before and after big trips or events, such as weddings or festivals.
This way, you can be sure that your photos come out crisp both during the event and at future events.
Tip: Make sure to clean your camera regularly, not just when it appears dirty. Some dirt and dust are small enough that the human eye won’t notice them but large enough to impact your photographs.
Quick Tips For Cleaning Your Camera
- Use a soft cloth or brush to avoid damaging the finish.
- If there are stubborn spots, use a mild soap and water solution.
- Remove the lens and sensor before cleaning.
- Use a blower brush or compressed air to remove dust from the lens and sensor.
- Do not touch the sensor with your fingers as this could leave smudges or fingerprints.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your camera regularly is important to keep it in good condition.
By following the steps above, you can safely and effectively clean your camera body and lens, ensuring that your photos are always of the highest quality.
Happy Shooting!
