ATTENTION: NIKON DSLR USERS! [please help]

[snaremop]

Hey guys, recently I bought the Nikon D40 (my first dSLR). When I was looking through the manual, I noticed that it mentioned that the kit included a "DK-5 Eyepiece Cap". After some internet reading, I realized that this was some sort of protective cover of the viewfinder, that was also used during self-portraits to prevent light entering the viewfinder. Unfortunately, either my Nikon kit didn't include this piece or I misplaced it, because I couldn't find it anywhere! So I was wondering, how often do you Nikon users actually use this piece, and is it worth trying to buy a new one?

Also, how worried should I be about keeping the camera dust-free? SHould I just be mildly conscientious, or do I need to be completely anal retentive about any dust?

Help is appreciated!
:hail::hail::hail:

 

[Sw1tchFX]

Don't worry about either.

I have a D70, and I used it in the pouring rain last week with no protection whatsoever and it was fine.

Dust? whatever. Just get a rocket blower and squeeze it out.

 

[Garbz]

Throw on the self timer and put your hat over the back of the camera if it is an issue, but I have never once had a miss-exposure due to light entering through the viewfinder.

 

[Saint-Brown]

I have mine still from my d70 I have never used it. You don't need it and wouldn't bother trying to replace it.

 

[kidchill]

Yah I wouldn't worry about it. I think I was like WTF, where is it with my kit??? And it's such a trivial thing it doesn't really matter.

 

[jstuedle]

Most of my cameras have an internal shutter to block that light from affecting the meter. In all the years I've been shooting I have rarely used it. I have setup on a tripod and metered a scene with and without it being closed and it make a very small difference. Except when the sun is low and directly behind the camera. In those cases, if you remember to do it, cover the eyepiece with your hand or a cap/hat. Simple and easy.

 

[Tennessee Landscape]

I've been using my hat and other misc. items to cover the view finder......no problems....

 

[snaremop]

Thanks a lot! It did seem like a weird item to include with the kit...

 

[jedithebomber]

I clipped mine to the strap, but its worthless and a PITA to use. You have to pull the rubber off from around the viewfinder and slide it into the slots.

 

[Patrice]

A piece of electrical tape works just as well, if and when you need to. My F4s has a built in shutter and does seem to benefit from it. Never had a problem with my digitals.