Even if you’re not using a filter to obtain any particular photographic effect, it’s still wise to keep a filter on your camera lens in order to add a layer of protection. A UV or ND filter could be used; either filter will help prevent scratches from getting on the lens.
The AmazonBasics UV Protection Camera Lens Filter would likely do the job, but you could also go with something fancier such as the K&F Concept 82MM Ultra Slim ND Filter Adjustable Neutral Density Filter if you’re willing to spend a bit more. [Amazon Affiliate Links]
It may seem obvious, but the lens cap is under-appreciated and best practices around using lens caps are often not followed, so it’s worth reminding: you should keep lens caps (both front and rear) on your lenses at all times when you’re not using them, such as when they’re in a camera bag.
The lens cap that came with your camera might be perfectly adequate, but do you have a backup? There might also be some better, sturdier lens caps out there that would be a good fit for your camera. It’s worth doing some research.
The Lens Cap Bundle - 4 Snap-on Lens Caps for DSLR Cameras from CAMKIX is worth a look. The Nikon LF-4 Rear Lens Cap is also well reviewed. [Amazon Affiliate Links]
Along with helping prevent ugly flares in your pictures, lens hoods also serve the purpose of physically protecting your lens AND filter. If you hit an object with your lens, chances are the hood will hit it first and keep your lens and filter undamaged.
The Kiwifotos 50mm Reversible Lens Hood seems to have mostly positive reviews on Amazon. The FOTGA Bayonet Mount Lens Hood is also well reviewed. [Amazon Affiliate Links]
If you’re actually using your camera gear, then inevitably some dust and/or “gunk” will get on the surface of the lens and a proper camera cleaning kit is therefore essential.
Notable product review site Wirecutter recommends for camera cleaning:
You’ll want to follow certain best practices in cleaning your camera lens in order to prevent it from getting fungal damage. If you shoot outdoors, but then you just toss your lens into a camera bag without wiping everything down, your lens will eventually turn into an expensive Petri dish.
Store your camera and lens in a cool, dry place. If this isn’t possible because you’re shooting in a warm environment, consider purchasing a portable/mini dehumidifier that can be placed next to your camera and lens when stored away. The EXMAX Mini Dehumidifier is one example of such a product. The Pro Breeze Electric Mini Dehumidifier is also an option. [Amazon Affiliate Links]
Microfiber cloths are ideal for cleaning and drying lenses. Some of these cloths are designed specifically for lenses, such as the Carson Microfiber Cleaning Cloth and the MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth [Amazon Affiliate Links].
Don’t just leave your lenses in the sun to dry them. This can cause problems.
It just doesn’t make sense to use a cheap, shoddy camera strap to hold an expensive camera/lens. You’re asking for trouble if you do that as the strap could conceivably snap at any point, damaging your camera lens. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but a decent camera strap is a great investment.
Especially if you have more than one camera and multiple lenses, you’ll also want to put some thought into getting a good camera bag – this will also help protect your lenses.
The Peak Design Everyday Messenger Bag [Amazon Affiliate Link] has a waterproof galaxy foam bottom liner and was recommended by Wirecutter. The waterproof Tenba Cooper 13 Slim [Amazon Affiliate Link] was also recommended by Wirecutter.
Clean your compartments/bag of all the lint you can before putting lenses in it. Include some silica gel desiccant [Amazon Affiliate Link] in the bag to absorb residual moisture.
Ideally, keep the camera bag away from radiators and places that might be damp. Somewhere between 5°C and 10°C is a good temperature.
After investing so much into your camera lens, it would be a shame to then put that camera on a weak tripod, only to have it tip over, smash into the ground and crack the lens. Using a sturdy tripod that is appropriately sized for your camera body and lens is an excellent preventative measure.
The Sirui W-1004K10 Tripod Kit River Runner was recommended by Wirecutter as a sturdy tripod. The GEEKOTO Tripod for DSLR is also well reviewed on Amazon. [Amazon Links]
See also: The Best Budget Travel Tripods
Following these tips will hopefully allow you to avoid any damage to your camera lens – but in case that does happen – you’d ideally have insurance coverage in place.
Front Row’s photography insurance policy is a good option for insuring your photo gear. Many Canadian photographers have come to recognize Front Row as the industry’s best coverage – and rely upon us to protect their valuable camera gear.
Based on customer demand, we’ve setup our referral marketing program and if you refer a friend to Front Row, you could win a $15 Amazon eGift Card OR be entered into a random draw to win a $99 Amazon eGift Card! (depending on your province)
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