Your DSLR camera and your equipment are a huge investment. Although these cameras are built to withstand weather conditions, keeping
them well maintained and free from dust, grimes humidity, etc., can improve the functionality of your equipment but can also last you more
years if not a lifetime.
If you are a photographer, your camera is your life – regardless of if you are a professional or hobbyist. Investing in these gadgets can cost you an arm and leg. So, better take care of them and you’ll be glad you did.
1) Store them in a camera bag – Storing them in a quality camera bag can protect your camera from scratches and extreme weather condition.
2) Never leave the batteries in your camera – The batteries may corrode if you leave it untouched for long. If you’re not using your camera for some time just remove the batteries and place it in a pocket or case.
3) Be wary of weather – inclement weather can wreak havoc on sensitive areas. Water leaking onto the sensor can do a lot of damage. It’s always good to have weather protection on hand, whether it is a rain cover for your bag, a sleeve to protect your camera and lens, or a plastic bag tucked away for emergencies and unexpected downpours.
4) Filter protection for camera lens – Remember that the lens of your camera is very delicate and very vulnerable to cracks, dents and,
scratches. Protect the lens by attaching a UV filter. This can also enhance the quality of your pictures. Invest in a high-quality filter. Some low-end filters can get stuck on the lens or the cheaper glass can fog and change color.
5) Keep it capped – Your camera loves to do all the dirty work but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t need some TLC. She hates all the grime and dust. When you’re not using your camera be sure to keep the lens cap on and don’t forget the body cap if the lens is not attached.
6) Clean your camera – The dirt, dust, sand, smoke, water, humidity, and extreme weather or even day to day life can create a disaster for your camera. Clean the camera lenses with a microfiber cloth, a lens tissue, or a brush made for cleaning the lenses. Never wipe your camera lens with your shirt. It will do more harm than good. If you notice dust on your sensor, take your camera to a professional at your local camera store. Some cameras have self-cleaning sensor locks, but take the advice of a professional before trying anything DIY.
7) Take good care of your memory cards – Never remove the memory card while the camera is powered on as you have the chance of losing images on the memory card and you don’t want that to happen to your precious files. Also, don’t delete images while scrolling through them on your camera. You can format the card on your camera, but delete individual images on your computer. It’s not common, but it can happen that deleting individual images can wipe out images that you did not mean to delete or even corrupt the card.
