Dust

[Kryptix]

I've been at Santa Pod today and it was very windy. Lots of dust being blown around and my camera is now covered in dust. I've cleaned most off with a microfibre cloth, but I'm worried it's going to happen again and I rub dust into the lens which scratches it.

If I look through the lens and out through the camera (backwards), I can see a few spots on my sensor (I believe). I've been very careful and even went back to the car to swap lenses. It doesn't seem to show on the picture but I'm really fussy. What are my opinions? Should I just leave it? Will it come back instantly if I fork out on getting a 3-week-old camera sensor cleaned?

I'm going to buy some Hoya filters now!

Any other suggestions for keeping my gear lovely and mint?

 

[TheCrow]

I presume when you say...

If I look through the lens and out through the camera (backwards)

You mean you can see out of the viewfinder so to speak. If so you aren't looking at the sensor but the mirror inside the camera! If the dust was on the sensor you would more than likely see it on your pictures. Try taking a pic of something white and light (wall or ceiling) This will help you see of there is any marks on the pictures.

I would get a rocket blower for small dust and simply blow it out.

 

[Kryptix]

Oops, I thought the mirror was the sensor... :shrug:

I'm new, lemme 'lone! :razz:

Cheers for the suggestion... I'm gunna grab one now!

 

[Flash In The Pan]

Doesn't the 450D have an inbuilt sensor cleaner

 

[antonroland]

Oops, I thought the mirror was the sensor... :shrug:

I'm new, lemme 'lone! :razz:

Cheers for the suggestion... I'm gunna grab one now!

Also, worth noting that a UV filter (Hoya or otherwise) will not keep dust off the sensor.

It will protect the front element of the lens in harsh environments such as shooting near the sea...but it will also degrade IQ to some extent.

As far as the 450D and any other auto sensor cleaning goes, they are all gimmicks IMHO.

The dust mapping software might work but I have no personal experience of that.

 

[antonroland]

Try taking a pic of something white and light (wall or ceiling) This will help you see of there is any marks on the pictures.

I would get a rocket blower for small dust and simply blow it out.

And use a high f/ number...11 - 16 or higher...simply use the highest number your lens will allow.

The dust bunny rears it's ugly head from about f/11 mostly but specs are very well defined at f/16, f/22 or higher.

 

[33L]

if it doesnt show in images in real world shooting rather than f16+ then i wouldnt be too bothered.
yes its nice for peace of mind but unless its a really important shoot then dont stress yourself.