Dust Removal

[Wynngd]

Hi All,

Yesterday I started experiencing the dust problem in my SLR camera. I only used a small water droplet like to blow the dust away from the lens. However, to those who are using SLR for sometimes, how do you clean your sensor from dust? I'm still afraid that I might damaged the sensor.

Thanks alot,
Wynn

[TcJohnson]

I myself have been using a baby booger sucker the tip is small enough to get to the sensor on my 30D and the squeeze part is large enough to give a good burst of air BUT YOU HAVE TO BE CAREFUL NOT TO TOUCH THE SENSOR this cannot be Stressed enough!!!!!!!!! I have also found that if you can put the body of the slr with the lense attachment straight down when you blow it out 98% of the dust is expelled from the entire body saving you getting the camera out to shoot and the dust you thought you had gotten rid of has migated back to the sensor do not use canned air or the likes as the fluid from the can will damage the sensor.

[Andrask]

I haven't addressed this issue as the Canon 400D supposed does it automatically every time one turns the power off.

However you may find the following article on how one pro does it helpful:

http://www.toledo-bend.us/index.shtml?sensor

[shootem]

Copperhill makes a kit, that is an excellent way to clean your sensor. They also have explicit instructions. The website is here:

http://www.copperhillimages.com/index.php?pr=products

I use the wet/dry kit. Many high end photo stores sell these, or you can order online.

Sometimes it takes a few cleanings to get it clean. If it's very dirty, you tend to move the dust bunnies around at first. You shoot at f/16 at blue sky, then open the image and search at 100%. If it's still diry, clean it again. DO NOT ever use compressed air.

Zoom lenses will pull in more dust than primes.
Always change your lens with the camera body facing down.

Carolyn

[SMcEvoy]

It's actually pretty easy in the Nikon D50. You use mirror lockup, then a swab shaped like a small boat oar (available in your camera store) and you just lightly touch it. I actually took mine to a Nikon cleaning clinic and was amazed how 'rough' the technician was with it. He said it's a lot sturdier than we're led to believe and you can actually do a fair amount with it. However, I suppose they have to put all the disclaimers on it because somebody is bound to take windex and a paper towel to it if they aren't warned.

I also learned on course this week that every time you twist your lens in and out to adjust your zoom, you are sucking in dust to the back. The recommendation was to look at the view, decide what sort of area on the lens you're going to need. e.g. 200mm in a 70-300mm lens, set it there and then just make minor adjustments. It will help reduce the amount of dust on your sensor and inner workings.

[Wynngd]

Wow! THanks alot guys! This really educated me so next time, I don't need to do more twisting in my zoom if not necessary. I'm already thinking about using compressed air. Really guys I appreciate it

[shootem]

I hope that was a typo on your part.... DO NOT Use Canned Air!!!

CG

[Wynngd]

Thanks for corrections Carolyn