question regarding equipment

Mastershake · Nov 29, 2006

So I've been doing some research and found that some people think that exposing their camera to ocean air can damage the lens/rubber seals. So i asked the same question to a photographer i know on St. Marteen and he said he's never had a problem. What do you guys think?

midget patrol · Nov 29, 2006

Depends what you mean by ocean air. If you're talking about the air on the island of hawaii, not likely. If you're talking about the spray from the surf... probably.

It'll also vary a lot from person to person, depending on how clean they keep the camera on a day to day basis.

Big Mike · Nov 29, 2006

Ocean air...is probably OK. Any spray or splash will leave a salty residue...which can cause damage. Most cameras don't have rubber seals...so salt water can easily get inside and cause a lot of damage. The high end pro bodies are weather sealed...but salt water would still be pretty bad.

Here is what happens when you drop a camera into salt water... http://www.pbase.com/gmr2048/20d-dissection&page=1

Mastershake · Nov 30, 2006

So lets say that I'm going on a 8 day sailing trip through the caribbean. Should i consider bringing my digital slr and just be cautious?

Big Mike · Nov 30, 2006

I would go ahead and bring it (but make sure it's insured). Keep it clean and wipe it off with a clean cloth whenever it needs.

Make sure you have a good bag or case for it. Lowepro has a 'Dry Zone' series of bags that are supposed to be water proof. Maybe something like a 'Pelican' case.

My gear is covered under my home owners insurance, even on vacation...so I don't hesitate to bring it with me...to places like the rain forests of Costa Rica, during the rainy season.