Whether permanently affixed to your camera or interchangeable, your camera lens is essential to making quality images. The lens is the eye of your camera. If it is dirty, or otherwise damaged, your images will lose quality. But how do you take proper care of a photographic lens?
There are four main types of external damage sources to be concerned about.
- Dirt
- Scratches
- Shock
- Water
Dirt should be avoided whenever possible but you should also know how to clean your lens. Some cleaners could further damage your lenses.
Scratches are a killer of your lens. There is no good way to repair them yourself. The best thing you can do is prevent scratches. The easiest thing you can do to protect your lens against scratches is to use a filter.
Shock is when your camera lens is hit or hits something else with considerable force. If you drop your lens or if someone slams a car door on your lens it will probably cause damage.
Water is a mortal enemy to your lens. The electronic circuits and motors inside most of today's lenses can be destroyed by water.
