Ok, let's say you bought a new camera with a kit lens, or an additional lens that you've wanted in your kit for some time. Most likely, you've spent some good money and maybe you didn't have to take out a loan, but still it was enough to feel the weight of the investment. Quality lenses are expensive, as we all know, but they are also durable. In fact, their durability is what's causing many photographers to ignore necessary cleaning and maintenance procedures and ultimately they break down. You need to clean your lens from time to time if you use it in normal conditions. If you return from shooting in less favorable conditions, like rain, or near saltwater , you need to clean the lens as soon as possible in order to avoid long term damage to the optical elements or the electronics.
(Success Tip #1:The easiest way to learn photography when you have little time to spare)
With that said, I've probably left you wondering about the right way to clean a lens. Here are the dos and don'ts of cleaning your lens.
DO:
- Wait for any water droplets to evaporate before wiping
- Blow any dust particles before using a cloth on the lens
- Clean the lens in a dust free environment as much as possible
- Use microfiber cloths
- Use a soft brush; use only special brushes dedicated to lenses
- Use quality lens paper and have it in your bag at all times
- Wipe the lens with a microfiber or lens paper gently, in vertical or horizontal moves, not circular ones.
- Mount the filter back as soon as you're finished
- Clean both ends of the lens at once
DON'T:
- Don't use water in any way.
- Don't use alcohol or cleaning fluids designed for other products
- Do not attempt to use any cleaning products not designed for this type of job; don't even think about toothbrushes .
- Don't steam the lens with your mouth and then wipe it
- Don't use your shirt or sleeve to clean the lens
- Don't touch the front glass element with anything hard
Stick to these recommendations and care for your lens like anyone interested in protecting an investment would and it should serve for a few good years.
(Success Tip #2:How even the hobbyist photographer can make money with their photography)
Also, here are two useful videos. This one from Allversity shows how to do it thoroughly (you can do it a lot faster than this guy if you practice).
Enjoy!
While this one from Ioannis Pavlis went viral at some point for blasphemy. Just to be clear, what you see in this next video, you DON’T do.