 Posted 4/22/2008 7:20:36 PM
|
|
|
|
| I almost faint when I discovered two smudges at the blue sky area of one of my pictures, and it repeated itself in other pictures exactly at the same spot. My camera is new, no more than 1,000 pictures taken. I had reference of dust or dirt in the sensor (actually in the low pass filter in front of it), but you never think it can happen to you until it is there. Anyway, I have read articles about it, and many mention that no matter how cautious you are, eventually you will face this problem; also, most of them warn you it is better not to try and clean it yourself. My question is if in your experience this is really such a common issue? If it has happened to you and what do you do about it? Should I attempt to clean it? Should I take it to an authorized repairshop? Or, if if the imperfections are not so evident as not to annoy you too much —as many articles suggest— simply use photoshop to get rid of them and avoid tampering with the mechanisms of the camera (specially the sensor)? Another person suggested just to avoid shooting at above (below) f11 and the problem will not be seen (I understand this has to do with light refraction). Anyway, I would appreciate very much your suggestions; to know how you deal with the problem, what the best solution might be and if it is true that this is a very common issue. Thank you, Jorge
|
|
|
Posted 4/23/2008 6:06:24 AM
|
|
|
|
Sensor dust is a common problem. I've written an article, which you can find here:
CMOS Sensor Cleaning
There are links to tutorials and resources for buying the supplies you need to clean the sensor yourself.
If your camera is new, and your dealer will clean it for you for no charge, that would be great. The practicality of this will depend on the proximity and generosity of the dealer. And, time without your camera is a consideration, if you must leave it for awhile.
The sensor cleaning task is not difficult, but it is intimidating to the new dslr owner. And, I've heard plenty of horror stories. There is nothing to fear if you're calm and cautious and deliberate. And, most importantly follow the tutorials to the letter.
I clean my sensor about once a week. It depends on the environment in which I've been shooting. If there's been a lot of wind and dust when I've switched lenses, the sensor will get contaminated more quickly. I try to swap lenses in an area with little wind. I think it's important to turn off your camera when swapping lenses. Theoretically, removing the electrical charge to the sensor will reduce the particle attraction to the sensor. It is good to know that on almost 100% of cameras, there is a clear filter in front of the sensor, so you are not touching the sensor itself with the cleaning materials. Also, use gravity to your advantage by holding your equipment in a manner that prevents dust from settling into the sensor area. I never use compressed air to try to blast out dust particles. Some compressed air cans contain a slight amount of oil. The very last thing you want to risk is an oily contaminant on your sensor.
Living with the dust spot problem is unacceptable. While its true you can clone out or otherwise repair the dust spots in post-processing, you'll grow weary of that tedious process rather quickly. Absolutely no reason to abandon your smaller aperture settings because of dust bunnies.
I've probably cleaned my sensor 75 times since I've owned my camera. It is a sustainable practice. No scratches, but I've been diligent about following the instructions and I always use the recommended tools, pads and liquid. Accept no substitutions. There is nothing better than a pristine sensor for photography of all kinds.
By all means, ask questions here anytime.
 My Top 24
|
|
|
Posted 4/23/2008 6:46:37 AM
|
|
|
|
I read your article a year ago Richard and I should have thanked you at the time - I had so much dust on my sensor that it took 20minutes or better to clone all the crap out of my pictures.
I ordered the kit from the place you suggested (CopperHill) after Kathleen Brown and I used her kit one Saturday afternoon to clean our sensors.
I've been extremely happy with the results and, even though it was terrifying the first time (and still makes me nervous), I followed their directions and was very, very happy with the results. I now have one spot on my d70s that I can't get cleaned off but that means I only have one spot to clean up 
Thanks again. I wouldn't have known about this or even attempted it had it not been for your willingness to share your knowledge
Leighann
|
|
|
Posted 4/23/2008 8:35:59 AM
|
|
|
|
| Thank you very much Richard, as always, you're a such a reliable source of information and always willing to help. I will go through the tutorial in a very scrutinious manner and then decide if I have or not the guts to do it myself. I'm travelling to the US next month, so I will probably buy the recommended cleaning kit, even if eventually I decide not to use it, I'm sure it will make me feel more secure just to know I have it (LOL... I think there is a psychological term for that behaviour =). Just one more question Richard, do you clean it on a table or do you think it is worth it to buy one of those special camera holders and magnifying glasses? By the way, there is a picture or something you posted after the link, but it appears as a button with a red cross (like when an image is not displayed). What is it? Cheers, Jorge
|
|
|
Posted 4/23/2008 9:15:23 AM
|
|
|
|
| I know for one thing I am just a little nervous about doing this but seeing the nearest town that could is 2 hours I guess I will have to try! I also have a spot on my photos.
|
|
|
Posted 4/23/2008 10:07:15 AM
|
|
|
|
Jorge (4/23/2008)
....Just one more question Richard, do you clean it on a table or do you think it is worth it to buy one of those special camera holders and magnifying glasses?
Nothing fancy needed. I do my sensor cleaning on my kitchen table. It helps to be able to lay out the tools, pads and liquid. It's usually best to select a quiet time of day, when there will be no distraction or interruptions. Always best to shut the doors and windows to allow the dust in the air to settle. Then, when you know you're right, just go ahead and do it.
Jorge (4/23/2008)
...By the way, there is a picture or something you posted after the link, but it appears as a button with a red cross (like when an image is not displayed). What is it? Cheers, Jorge
That is an image from the website I linked. It's an image of a sensor after it was returned from a professional cleaning by the manufacturer. This was supposed to make the point that one is usually better off cleaning your sensor yourself. (The image should show up, but might not draw in immediately. Or, try refreshing your page.)
My Top 24
|
|
|
Posted 4/23/2008 12:58:11 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted 4/23/2008 1:34:21 PM
|
|
|
|
Richard, we have had our differences in the past. I have to Thank You for always going the extra mile to help us all here at DA.
I had to clean my sensor about 3weeks ago, talk about nerve racking! I had two marks and dust! I confess to using an air tin, it is CRC Air Brush and leaves no residue.
BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER
My Profile My Top 24 Images
|
|
|
Posted 4/23/2008 1:54:27 PM
|
|
|
| | |
