Gear Maintenance 101: Keep Your Camera and Lenses in Peak Condition

Your gear is an investment. Regular maintenance reduces downtime and long-term repair costs. This guide covers practical, daily-to-annual maintenance tasks for cameras and lenses, plus troubleshooting for common issues encountered on shoots.

“A minute spent cleaning is an hour saved on the next shoot.”

Daily checklist

• Wipe down the camera body with a microfiber cloth.
• Check and clean lens front and rear elements.
• Verify battery charge status and bring spares.
• Inspect memory cards and format them in-camera after backing up files.

Weekly tasks

Perform a more thorough check weekly if you shoot frequently.

• Inspect lens mounts for dust and humidity residue.
• Use a blower to remove dust from sensor area (do not touch the sensor).
• Clean contacts with a clean, dry cloth to ensure reliable electronic connections.

Monthly and quarterly maintenance

Include deeper cleaning and function checks.

• Test autofocus accuracy and run micro-adjustments if needed.
• Clean and lubricate tripod plates and quick-release mechanisms.
• Run firmware updates for cameras and lenses (follow manufacturer instructions).

Storage best practices

Store gear in a dry, cool place. Use silica gel packets in camera bags and cases to control humidity. For long-term storage, remove batteries to prevent corrosion and store in padded cases. Rotate gear usage occasionally to prevent seals from drying out.

Cleaning tools and techniques

Essential tools: microfiber cloths, lens cleaning solution, a hand blower, sensor swabs (for experienced users), and isopropyl alcohol for stubborn grime on metal parts. Avoid canned air for sensors because of propellant risks. For sensor cleaning, if you’re uncertain, seek a professional service.

Dealing with moisture and corrosion

If gear gets wet, remove batteries and memory cards immediately and dry around openings with a cloth. Place gear in a sealed container with silica gel or uncooked rice for 48–72 hours (silica gel preferred). Never power on a wet camera. For saltwater exposure, professional cleaning is necessary.

When to seek professional service

Common reasons to send gear in for service include persistent autofocus issues, stuck aperture blades, sensor contamination that cannot be cleaned safely, and mechanical failure of shutters. Authorized service centers maintain calibration equipment and parts for long-term reliability.

Preventive habits on shoot days

• Use lens hoods and UV filters to protect front elements.
• Keep quick-release plates clean and secure to avoid drops.
• Use a dedicated rain cover or waterproof housing in wet conditions.
• Document serial numbers and keep purchase records for warranty and insurance.

Final thoughts

Maintenance protects your investment and keeps you reliable as a professional. Small daily habits and regular checks cut down on mid-shoot surprises and expensive repairs. Make a simple checklist and stick to it — your future self will thank you on that high-stakes day when the unexpected happens.