How Do I Clean the Inside of a Digital SLR Camera?
Digital SLR (single lens reflex) cameras differ from point-and-shoot cameras in that SLRs feature interchangeable lenses. This means that the lens on the camera may be removed and replaced with another lens. While this gives the photographer much more flexibility, it also exposes the inside of the camera to dust and dirt. As a result, SLR cameras should be cleaned regularly to remove any dust or debris that may have settled on the camera's digital sensor.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Remove the lens or body cap currently attached to the camera's body. Clean the inside of the camera in a dust-free room, such as one without carpeting. Dining rooms are typically good choices.
-
2
Position the nozzle of your blower bulb close to the surface of the sensor without touching it, and squeeze the bulb. This will release a puff of air that will remove any loose, large particles of dust from the surface of the sensor.
-
-
3
Remove a clean sensor cleaning swab from its package. Depending on your choice, the swab will either be dry and need a couple of drops of cleaning fluid, or will be pre-moistened. Do not remove the swab from the pouch until you are ready to use it, and do not set the swab down or it may attract dust.
-
4
Wipe the swab across the surface of the sensor in one complete motion. The swab should reach the end of the sensor before you pick it up. Work in one direction across the sensor, and overlap your sweeps slightly to ensure that you clean the entire surface.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Sensor cleaning swabs can be found at most camera retailers and online. There is no brand that is preferable to another. Always use a cleaning solution specially made for digital camera sensors, and never use a glass or general purpose cleaner; these have chemicals that will damage the sensor.
When you remove your lens while shooting, position the camera so that the lens is pointed downward. This will minimize the amount of dust that is permitted to fall into the open body. Never store your camera without a lens or body cap attached.
Do not blow into the camera to remove dust. Moisture and condensation from your breath will damage the internal components of your camera. Additionally, never use a can of compressed air with a liquid propellant. The chemicals in these cans will also damage camera components.
References
- Photo Credit lens cleanilig image by Vasiliy Koval from Fotolia.com
