How to Clean a Camera Lens Filter

Camera lens filters

A camera lens filter is an integral part of any photographer's camera bag, whether he is an amateur or professional. It could be argued that a photographer is only as good as his equipment. After all, you're not going to get the same results on a throwaway camera as you would using a cutting-edge digital camera. That is why it's necessary to take proper care of your camera equipment--the lens especially. Learning how to clean your camera lens filter is just as important a step as taking crystal-clear images if you take your craft seriously. Let's take a look at the simple steps you can take to keep your lens filter looking topnotch.

Things You'll Need

• Microfiber cloth Bulb blower Cleaning pen Lens cleaning solution

Instructions

1. Blow away any dust particles or debris from the filter with a bulb blower or similar device, which you can get from your local camera shop or electronics retailer.

2. Gently wipe the clean surface using a microfiber cloth or any lens-friendly substitute.

3. Moisten your cloth with a very small amount of water or a lens cleaner specifically approved by your brand of filter.

4. Continue to gently wipe the filter clean with the moistened cloth until most of the dust and/or smudges have disappeared.

5. Wipe away any remaining dust and/or smudges using a cleaning pen.

Tips & Warnings

• Read your instruction manual before cleaning your lens or lens filter, as cleaning instructions for one type of filter often differ from another. Microfiber cloth is very inexpensive, can be purchased almost anywhere and works wonders for cleaning sensitive objects, such as camera lens filters.

• Always use a device instead of your mouth to blow away dust and debris, so you don't damage the lens.

Resources

• Choosing a Camera Lens Filter