How to Protect Digital Cameras

Is your camera protected?

A digital camera can be a costly investment. If you want to keep your digital camera looking and working like new, protect it by following these tips. While adding to the upfront costs, protective equipment can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars versus replacing your digital camera. Price ranges quoted are for 2008.

Instructions

1. 

   Purchase a protective case if your camera doesn't come with one. Ideally, these should be hard enough to withstand a minor impact. If at all possible, it is advisable to find a case which offers some degree of protection from external moisture. Expect to pay between $30 and $80.

2. 

   Invest in a lens filter. Damage your lens, and all of your pictures will suffer. Therefore, it is important to protect your camera lenses from scratches and scuffs. If you do get a scratch, simply remove the filter and replace it with a new one. Lens filters can be purchased online or at your local camera shop, in most cases for less than $20.

3. 

   Protect you LCD display. For a reasonable price you can purchase pop-up shields which both protect the screen from damge, and also provide glare reduction by blocking direct sunlight from reaching the screen. Prices range between $15 and $40.

4. 

   Protect your camera from water. If you will be doing a lot of outdoor photography where you camera is likely to become wet, or could be submerged in water, it is a good idea to invest in a rain cape and water tight case. Rain capes generally cost $30 to $200 and water tight cases average around $90.

5. Do not leave your camera unattended in an enclosed vehicle during the hot summer months, where temperatures can reach 150 degrees. When dealing with very cold temperatures, be careful when bringing your camera indoors as condensation can form inside the lens. Digital cameras, like other electronics, do not like extremes in temperature.

Tips & Warnings

• Your photos need protection too. It's a good idea to download them often in case your camera is lost, stolen or damged.

• Check the weather! Water can seep into the lens and other components on your digital camera. Make sure they are well protected!