We’re all told of how to take care of our camera when we buy them. Or at least we should be told!
Usually that just involves how to properly handle our new piece of equipment and how to do minor cleaning of the lens and body. But what about all the other “predators” that are out there ready to wreak havoc on our prized possession?
I’ve personally come face to face with the following 7 predators, and have come out victorious because I know how to defeat them. If you’re aware of these predators and have the proper “weapons”, you can also be victorious!
Sunscreen/Insect Repellent
With the weather starting to warm up in many parts of the country, sunscreen and insect repellent are going to be used more and more. And if you’re not careful, these two predators can really damage your camera.
They are both greasy and great care should be taken in not getting them in contact with your camera.
After using either one, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This may sound obvious, but don’t spray repellent around your camera.
Not only will sunscreen and insect repellent damage your camera by themselves, it will also be easier for dust to stick to it.
Dust
Dust may be harder to avoid than sunscreen and insect repellent, but it definitely shouldn’t be ignored.
If you’re in a dusty environment shield your camera as much as possible. If you’re not using your camera, keep it safe inside your camera bag.
Also, if you need to change lenses do it carefully. You either do it inside, like your car or a building, or under the protection of a jacket or in a backpack.
Have your other lens ready to be put on so you’re not messing around with it while there is no lens on your camera.
You can also avoid getting dust in your camera by holding it upside down while you change lenses. This won’t prevent it completely, but gravity will do its thing and not let a lot of dust settle down in your camera.
Sand
Sand is pretty much like dust, only with bigger particles. Never wipe sand off your camera, expecially the lens.
Use a blower to try and blow as much sand off as possible. Then you can use a lens brush to gently wipe off the rest.
Moisture
With Spring comes rain. And getting your camera wet could mean the end of your photo-taking days.
There are waterproof bags and devices that will allow you to protect your camera while still being able to take pictures. They can be quite pricey, but much cheaper than a new camera!
If there’s just a light mist, try using an umbrella to shield your camera.
Make sure you wipe down your camera after using it if it gets any moisture on it.
Salt
This really applies to those living on the coast. I took a trip to the Washington coast a few years back, and not being from the coast, never even thought about how much salt was in the air.
I deffinitely thought about it when I was photoshopping all the spots out of my images!
A thorough cleaning after each use will prevent you from having to send your camera in for repairs.
Bumps/Drops
Just hang on to your camera and you won’t have any troubles!
When you’re not using your camera, keep the strap around your neck. I dropped a camera off a bridge when I was younger because I didn’t utilize the strap. Granted, it was an old 110 camera, but it was my camera!
You can also buy “armor” for your camera. It’s basically just a rubber mold that fits around your camera giving it a little protection. I wouldn’t test it from any great heights though!
Thieves
So you don’t think people notice that you’re carrying around a couple thousand dollars worth of camera gear? Thank again!
Keep everything secure, in a locked vehicle, locked room, a safe, whatever. Just keep it locked up when you’re not using it.
If you keep it in the car, store it in the trunk or under the seat so that it’s out of view.
If you keep these “predators” in mind while you’re out shooting, you will have many more happy days of it!
