How to care for your camera lens

A more or less good camera costs a lot of money. But the corresponding "glass" to it is sometimes even more expensive. And even if you are content with the standard lens that came with your camera, it still needs proper care. Otherwise, the quality of your images will deteriorate over time, and then the lens will become unusable altogether.

The three main enemies of the lens are dust, moisture and mold. This is especially true for travelers, although the problem is relevant for studio photographers as well. In any case, the device can be protected from all three threats.

Use a UV filter

A quality UV filter is a great way to protect your lens from dust, moisture, and even shock. If you buy an expensive lens, such a glass, even an inexpensive one, will be a good investment in its lifespan.

Some argue that when using a UV filter, the picture quality deteriorates slightly, so it's better not to skimp and get a more expensive option. In fact, the loss of quality is negligible, so this minus is incomparable with all the advantages of such a filter.

Be very careful when changing lenses

When you detach one lens from the camera and attach another, dust, moisture and small particles can enter the camera mechanism. Therefore, always point the device with the opening down.

In order not to have to change the "glass" on the go, it is better to think over in advance what focal length is preferable for you. In wild conditions, you can protect the matrix from harmful effects, unless you put the cover on the camera hole as quickly as possible.

Lens storage and cleaning: Variable focus

Alternatively, use a variable focal length lens for both close-ups and wide shots. A good example is on the gif.

Buy a bag, microfiber and silica gel

A camera bag is a great purchase. It should have a compartment for one or more lenses, and it should also be protected from drops. If you don't have a bag, wrap the lens well in a sock.

Use a microfiber to clean the rest of the camera. If dirt does not collect on the camera, it will not get on the lens.

To protect the glass from moisture and mold, put a few bags of silica gel in your bag. Just remember to change them periodically. If a fungus develops on the lens, you cannot do without professional help.

Clean the lens carefully and thoroughly

Most lenses are coated with a special coating. In addition, glass is highly susceptible to scratches. So if you start cleaning, do it carefully.

It is not recommended to use lens cleaning fluids as they contain chemicals that can damage the coating. It is better to carefully remove the dust with a special brush or a pear. Try to hold the lens with the glass you are cleaning down to prevent particles from settling on it.

Whenever possible, carry your cleaning products with you: they can come in handy at any time. And always hang the camera around your neck when not using a tripod. This is much less likely to break the camera.

Do not breathe on the lens or touch it with your fingers

Do not breathe on the glass and try to clean it with the edge of the shirt. Doing so will damage the coating and may leave even more marks on the lens.

Avoid touching the lens with your fingers. The temptation to rip off a piece of dirt can be very great, but in this case, marks will remain on the glass. As a last resort, carefully remove them with microfiber.