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Apart from learning how to use key techniques such as the horizontal split focusing screen, knowing how to clean your top-rated digital camera is a big step for all photographers. There are systems like the Altura Photo Professional Cleaning Kit, but you shouldn’t have to invest in expensive products with a few supplies. Of course, it’s never a bad idea to use a professional camera cleaning kit, but it isn’t always necessary.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Learning how to use camera cleaning supplies and correctly clean a DSLR mirror will increase the lifespan of DSLR cameras- Canon, Nikon, or otherwise. Make sure you have a regular cleaning process as a routine part of maintaining your digital camera. Tons of cleaning tips online will help you during this process. And if you also want to learn how to solve common issues affecting cameras, check our post on how to repair a digital camera and lens, which means you’ll be learning how to do DIY digital camera repair.
There are a few different supplies you’ll need to clean your digital camera thoroughly:
You’re first going to remove your lens by engaging the lens contacts and popping it off. This will give you access to the image sensor and other internal components. Pop off any other parts you have that can be removed. Open up the USB port, as well.
You don’t need to clean every single part of your camera every time. It’s better to avoid over-cleaning since this can cause excess wear and tear. The lens and USB port are super important, however, so focus on that.
Compressed air is fantastic for getting bits of dust out of the nooks and crannies in your camera. Make sure you use a dust blower explicitly made for cameras, preferably at a specialty supply store.
A lens cleaning pen is another item you should buy as soon as possible. Use the microfiber cloth first in a circular motion to remove excess dust. Then, use your cleaning pen as the packaging directs.
Finally, wet down that dry cloth with a little bit of cleaning solution. This will come with any professional camera cleaning kit you may have invested in. Use it only as directed and only on the parts that the cleaning solution is rated for.
Warning
You don’t need to clean every single part of your camera every time.
What to do before cleaning the sensor?
Ensure that your camera is fully charged so that it doesn’t close in the middle of cleaning. This will lead to costly repairs for you.
Are self-cleaning sensors sufficient?
The short answer is no. While it’s always nice to have a self-cleaning digital camera sensor, you need to perform maintenance yourself, as well.
What is sensor dust, and what does it look like?
Sensor dust collects inside the components whenever you change your lens. Other actions, such as trying to clean your lens with saliva, can cause damage. Make sure you keep your lenses clean to avoid the collection of dust.
Why is sensor dust a problem?
The reason why dust and debris can cause a problem is that the inner components of your camera are sensitive, and being exposed to too much dust can ruin the sensors.
STAT: The Sony A7 Mk II is likely the most affordable Full Frame sensor camera on the market. (source)
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