Care and Maintenance of Your Camera

I found this article this morning when searching the internet.  I thought it would be helpful for all levels of experience to be reminded about how to take care of your camera.  I know I need it!  This information applies to all type of cameras not just DSLR cameras. 

If you would like additional information about photography terminology, classes offered, etc. please go to this website:  http://www.ritzpixphotopatrol.com/glossary/

All cameras are highly tuned, electro-mechanical marvels. They operate at peak efficiency when they are kept clean, handled properly, and cleaned and checked regularly. Here are some guidelines when working with your equipment. Dirt, Dust, and Sand Keep your camera in a case, when not in use. A case will not only protect your camera from the elements; it will also cushion minor impact. Periodically you should clean your camera body and lens. A soft blow brush or low-pressure compressed air can be helpful. When cleaning the lens, use a blow brush to remove loose particles then use photo tissue and cleaning solution to clean the lens. Always use tissue and cleaning solution made for camera lenses; eye glass tissue is often treated with chemicals that can damage the delicate coatings found on photographic lenses. Apply the cleaning solution to the tissue, not the lens, and wipe in a circular motion. Then, with a dry tissue, remove any remaining solution. A micro-fiber cloth is another way to keep your lens clean. (They also work great for eyeglasses.) Be especially cautious at the beach, sand is a camera killer. To be cleaned properly, sand damaged cameras require total disassembly. That means a qualified technician. Moisture Water, or fluid of any type, can seriously damage your photo equipment. It is vital that you protect your equipment from fluids. A handy plastic bag may help to protect your equipment in a sudden downpour. It is also advisable to keep a moisture absorbent packet in your camera bag. If your camera should become wet, remove the batteries immediately, wrap it in plastic, and get it immediately to any Ritz Camera location. We will then forward it to the service center. Sometimes a fluid damaged camera can be saved, however; a camera that has been submersed is probably rendered beyond economical repair. Temperature Never leave your equipment in a car where it can experience extreme temperature changes. Extreme heat can turn internal lubricants into very thin liquids that will migrate to other areas within the camera. Excessive heat can also warp or distort plastic parts. Extreme cold can freeze lubricants. The lower the temperature, the more likely your battery will not work. Temperature changes can also cause a moisture build up within the camera and lenses. Impact Of course, everyone's intent is to be careful. Still, one of the most common causes of camera failure is due to impact. Continuous care must be taken to ensure a safe environment for your camera. Impact can severely damage cameras and lenses. Always use a comfortable neck or wrist strap in case your camera "Gets away from you." You should also be especially careful when your camera is on a tripod. Tripod accidents are a leading cause of impact damaged cameras.