How to Clean a Camera Sensor & Keep it Pristine (VIDEO)

Do you notice annoying dust spots on every photo you shoot, causing you to waste time cleaning things up during post processing? If so, a dirty sensor is the most likely culprit and this step-by-step guide will show you how to prevent sensor dust in the first place—and exactly what to do when it inevitably occurs.

Instructor John Peltier kicks off today’s important episode like this: “Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, this guide walks you through everything you need to know for keeping your camera’s sensor spotless and your photos looking their best.” He’s an experienced freelance travel and documentary photographer, and the methods he describes are both safe and easy to accomplish.

In barely 10 minutes Peltier explains why sensor cleaning is such an essential task, the best practices for changing lenses in the field, when to use a camera’s built-in sensor-cleaning feature, and how to use an affordable sensor-cleaning kit for spotless results. He also provides links to the necessary supplies in the description beneath the video.

Peltier takes you through what he calls “the escalation of steps—starting with prevention—because nobody wants to deal with a dirty sensor.” Proper lens-changing procedures are particularly important when shooting outdoors, especially in wet and dusty conditions. These preventative measures are especially necessary when shooting with a mirrorless camera because “the sensor is exposed to the environment every time a lens is removed.”

Another recommendation is to periodically examine the rear element of a lens and use a pocket air blower to remove any contaminants that could otherwise enter the camera and land on the sensor. Most modern camera’s include built-in sensor cleaning capabilities that shake dust off a sensor until more thorough maintenance procedures are required, and Peltier describes exactly how this works.

The reminder of the lesson is devoted to doing the dirty deed yourself, and Peltier walks you through getting the job done with confidence. You’re learn how to employ an air blaster, a sensor-cleaning swab kit, and a simple sensor-cleaning brush to accomplish this important task with precision. Just follow Peltier straightforward  advice and then utilize the preventive measures he recommends for keeping things pristine as long as possible.

There’s much more to learn on Peltier’s informative YouTube channel, so take a look and subscribe.