What causes fungus on camera lenses?

3 years 9 months ago #688580 by Joe Vertz
I just noticed that on my 50mm lens which I haven't used in a long time, it has some fungus growing on the front element behind the lens cap.  I thought this only happens with crazy old lenses?  What causes fungus?

I just used spray cleaner on cloth and it cleaned up.  Greenish black muck.  


Photo Comments
,
3 years 9 months ago #688581 by Nikon Shooter
A fungus spreads with spores finding their way in or depositing
on different objects.

It is only after a very long time that they will scar glass. Hydrogen
peroxide blend with ammonia is a good method. Vinegar + water
is an other solution to remedy the fungus problem.

Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
,
3 years 9 months ago #688586 by fmw
Fungus results from moisture, usually in the form of humidity.  If it is on your front element then it should be fairly trivial to resolve.  I would simply remove the front element and clean it up with with hydrogen peroxide, alcohol or both.  You don't want to ignore it.  It will get worse and get into the elements that actually form the image that are much harder to remove and replace.  The front element just gathers light and aims it toward the focal point. so it is the least important element in terms of image quality.

If this doesn't sound like something you want to do, then send the lens to a repair shop.  Don't ignore it.


Photo Comments
,
3 years 9 months ago #688600 by Joe Vertz
OK, thank you guys.  Going to clean this.  Is there any permanent way to prevent this?


Photo Comments
,
3 years 9 months ago - 3 years 9 months ago #688602 by Nikon Shooter

Joe Vertz wrote: Is there any permanent way to prevent this?


Yes…

1, never unpack and use your gear! :(
2, don't leave your stuff at rest for too long:
    get out and shoot more! :)

Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Latest Articles

Acrylic print photos are a beautiful way to display your favorite images. But they don’t come without some questions. Get all the answers you need about this medium in this guide!

Apr 15, 2024

Where do you get your landscape photography inspiration? Is it from masters like Ansel Adams? Or perhaps viewing art from other genres? We’ve got these and a few other sources for you to check out!

Apr 10, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

Too often, affordable online printing companies don’t meet your expectations of what a print should look like. But there are some choices that combine affordability with superb quality!

Apr 09, 2024

Self-critique is an important component of your journey to improving as a photographer. Use these simple tips about critiquing your work as a means to make faster progress with your art.

Apr 08, 2024

With these easy iPhone photography tips, you can maximize the functionality of your iPhone’s camera and get much-improved results for portraits, landscapes, and any other genre!

Apr 05, 2024

A small camera backpack is the perfect vessel for carrying your photography kit. The problem is there’s so many to choose from! Use this guide for details on three top choices.

Apr 04, 2024

In the great Canon R6 vs R6 Mark II, which one is best? Is it the original, groundbreaking R6 or the mildly updated and newer R6 Mark II? Let’s dive in and find out!

Apr 03, 2024