Not everyone knows how to take care of the camera properly and correctly. Considering the cost of the camera is not cheap, at all, it is very important to know how to take care of your camera. Here are 11 ways to take care of the camera.
1. Using a Camera Bag
The first step to taking care of your camera is by using a suitable camera bag. Camera bags help keep gear safe while traveling. There are different types of sizes, colors, and prices of camera bags that you can choose from. Be aware that using a regular backpack for storage may damage the lens or camera body.
There are several benefits of using a camera bag, including:
- A camera bag protects your camera from scratches and dust
- The camera bag secures your camera from rain as it is waterproof on the outside
2. Don't Leave the Battery Inside the Camera for Too Long
This is a no-no!! Batteries that have not been removed for a long time may result in acid leakage in the battery chemistry. The leaked acid can damage the lens and camera body. It is a good decision to remove or disconnect the battery when traveling.
Storing batteries in hot and humid places can cause them to become corrosive. You can use silica gel to help keep the battery from getting damp. If you're not going to use your camera for several months, you should remove the battery first. If there is some corrosion on the battery, you can use a pencil eraser to remove the corrosion.
3. Turn Off the Camera Before Doing Something
Turning off your camera is a useful method for saving battery life. If the camera is constantly turned on, it will drain the battery in a short time. You should also turn off the camera before doing anything.
Here are some activities that require us to turn off the camera first:
- Swapping lenses
- Replacing memory card
- Removing or attaching camera cable
If you change the memory card without turning off the camera, there is a possibility that the card may be damaged due to the sudden ejection of the card. If you change the lens while the camera is still on, there is also a possibility of dust entering the sensor. Keep in mind to point the camera's lens downwards when changing the lens.
4. Be Careful with LCD Screens and Camera Lenses
Cleaning LCD screens and camera lenses requires specialized cleaners. Using the wrong cleaner will destroy the lens' anti-glare coating. You can go to a camera store and buy special cleaners, including cleaning liquids, microfiber cloths, and brushes that are specially designed for cleaning cameras.
You can clean the camera sensor using cleaning fluid and a special cloth. You should avoid touching the LCD screen. The camera lens can also be scratched very easily and permanently. So, be careful!
5. Avoid Canned Air
Canned air contains chemicals that should not be exposed to the camera. For example, some chemicals can permanently discolor the plastic. When using canned air, vapors will be released with the air. These vapors are going to leave marks on the camera sensor and cause long-term damage. It is recommended to use a rubber air blower and a lens brush for camera cleaning.
6. Using Famous Brands
It's not that unknown brands are bad, but the thing is, well-known brands are more trusted as they have developed trust and quality over several years. For example, when choosing camera lenses, camera bodies, batteries, accessories, and so on, well-known brands have a warranty so that they can be refunded if there is any damage.
However, well-known brands tend to be more expensive. But professional photographers are usually not concerned about the price of camera equipment; they just buy what is best for their camera.
7. Using a Lens Cover
A lens cover can protect the sensor from damage caused by laser light. Much damage occurs from lasers. When the sensor is damaged by the laser, the photo will have black or red lines. If this happens to you, you must replace the sensor completely. There's no other option.
8. Be Careful When Changing Lenses
As I mentioned before, make sure to point it down when changing camera lenses. Camera lenses are vulnerable when they are removed or installed. If you are not careful, there will be dust or dirt in hard-to-reach places. Every time you change the lens, make sure it is indoors or in other places with no wind. You should also face the camera downwards to stop dust from blowing off and falling onto your camera lens.
9. Keep Your Hands Clean
Hands are one of the reasons why dirt can get into your camera. If you are outdoors or traveling, it is important to carry wet wipes. Hand sanitizers are also useful. Never touch the lens, even with clean hands. Usually, the hands only look clean when they're oily.
10. Taking Good Care of Your Camera's Memory Card
Here are the steps to take good care of the memory card:
- Using a memory card case and don't you ever try to carrying your memory card without it
- Keeping dust away from the memory card. Replace it indoors if possible as the wind can easily blow dust onto it
- Store the memory card at a cool temperature
- Keep the memory card away from any magnets
11. Using a Camera Strap
You can use a camera strap, but please avoid buying cheap camera straps. You should always check the strap that you want to buy. A neck strap is also another alternative for more security and makes your camera safer from falling. You should pay attention to how the camera hangs when you're not holding it, because the lens can be scratched easily.
I hope this how to take care of your camera article can be useful for you.
0 Comments