Is this what a dirty sensor looks like?

[bremner53]

My new/used 5D has squigles and black spots, is this what it looks like when you need to clean the sensor? Any tips on how, or what type of cleaner if so? I had to use the grey card for class, and these spots were driving me crazy.

.

 

[Josh66]

Yup. That's a dirty sensor. (And really, it's not *that* dirty - I've seen far worse...)

First step is to try to blow it of with a blower (get a camera specific one).

It looks like there's some dust (the stuff that looks like hair) that a blower would probably take care of.

Those smaller spots look like they might be some sort of oil/residue. If that's what it is - a wet cleaning is pretty much the only way to get rid of it.

All sensors will need periodic cleaning... Unless you just seal your camera in a plastic bag and hide it in the closet - it will get dirty.

I use the cleaning kits found here:
Sensor Cleaning

You can also take it to a shop for cleaning, but they will probably charge you more than what one of those kits will cost.

Personally, I recommend that you learn to do it yourself. It's not that hard if you are able to follow directions.

Depending on the kinds of places you take your camera, and how and how often you change lenses you may only need to clean it once every six months, or you might need it monthly. I've heard of some people doing it every week, but they're probably OCD or something...




woot! Post 6677.

 

[vtf]

yep ^^^^^^^^^follow instructions in manual

 

[flatflip]

I use the cleaning kits found here:
Sensor Cleaning

pecpads or quick strips? (for Nikon D40) Thanks

 

[Josh66]

I use the cleaning kits found here:
Sensor Cleaning

pecpads or quick strips? (for Nikon D40) Thanks

Actually, I think I have everything on that page... :lmao:

For sensor cleaning I use the kit at the very top - the PEC*PADs with Eclipse and the SensorSwipe. Never used the quick strips before... They look like they're just single use sensor swipe/pec pad combos...

The lens tissue is good too (for your lenses, obviously).

That little brush is good for the sensor too - just make sure you FOLLOW the DIRECTIONS!

As long as you can read, it's easy.

edit
Everything there comes with very well written directions, and there are video tutorials on the site if you still need help.

 

[flatflip]

I use the cleaning kits found here:
Sensor Cleaning

pecpads or quick strips? (for Nikon D40) Thanks

Actually, I think I have everything on that page... :lmao:

For sensor cleaning I use the kit at the very top - the PEC*PADs with Eclipse and the SensorSwipe. Never used the quick strips before... They look like they're just single use sensor swipe/pec pad combos...

The lens tissue is good too (for your lenses, obviously).

That little brush is good for the sensor too - just make sure you FOLLOW the DIRECTIONS!

As long as you can read, it's easy.

edit
Everything there comes with very well written directions, and there are video tutorials on the site if you still need help.

Thanks Josh