How to Clean an SLR Camera Lens
Dust and fingerprints are the most common contaminants that can smear the lens of your single lens reflex camera. While most photographers know that putting on the camera lens cover is the first thing to do after finishing a shoot, that doesn't mean it always happens. Even little distractions can draw your attention away from the equipment, then the moment you get ready to take another frame -- whoops -- your fingers touch the lens. Fortunately, cleaning the camera lens only takes a minute with a little care and the proper tools.
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Instructions
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Cleaning the Lens
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1
Remove the lens cap from the camera and inspect the lens at a slight angle so the light can reveal smudges, dirt and fingerprints.
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2
Place a small amount, no more than three to four drops, of cleaning solution on a piece of lens cleaning paper and gently rub the lens in a circular motion. Do not pour cleaning liquids directly on the lens.
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3
Allow the solution to evaporate from the lens.
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4
Repeat steps 1-3 as necessary to remove persistent smudges and dirt.
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5
Hold a can of compressed air with the attached nozzle at an angle and at least five inches from the lens surface. Release the compressed air in short, controlled bursts to remove dust particles without the extra time of using lens cleaning solution.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Keep the lens cover on the camera lens when you are not taking photographs.
Never place cleaning solution or any liquid directly on the camera lens. The solution could seep underneath the glass and the lens housing, which could fog the lens indefinitely. Solution might also get inside the camera, potentially damaging delicate electronics and mechanisms. Use only lens cleaning paper to touch your camera lens. Never use a cloth, your shirt tail, a handkerchief or any other material on camera glass. The glass scratches easily and one scratch will ruin your expensive lens.
