Photo Smart Tips - What to do about wet camera gear?

Image taken as camera enters the sea*

by Danielle Lancaster

Your camera does not like getting wet and neither the camera nor you will be a happy chap when they are wet unless of course they are underwater cameras. In this new series, FishMax contributor, Danielle Lancaster will share some of her photography skills so we too can be proud of our images.

Wetness can be caused from direct contact with water and vapour or contact through the atmosphere: as in humidity. Humidity is a silent killer. Direct contact with water is more often an instant killer.

If you are caught out in the rain, do anything to keep your camera dry. Even a plastic shopping bag and rubber band, which pack flat, are a good start to protect your camera and lens and a lens hood to keep droplets off your lens.

If your camera gets wet, do NOT turn it on; remove the batteries and memory card. Dry your camera and lenses as quickly as you can and when finished open all doors, extend all lenses and place all your gear in a well ventilated area. Some use a hair dryer on the lowest/coolest setting to gently blow air around their equipment. It is important the pressure is soft and drying as you want to dry the water, not push it around.

Unfortunately, if your digital camera is wet with salt water, chances of your camera being resurrected are slim. Salt is highly corrosive and the damages could be beyond repair. In this case, you really have nothing to lose by taking your camera apart, washing/wiping it down with fresh (or distilled) water and a cloth to attempt to remove any salt. It is however, time often wasted.

For those battling humidity, pack your camera bag with rice or silica gel crystal sachets. The sachets can be popped in the oven every six months for a quick revive.

If the worst appears to happen, get an expert to look at it. In reality, you may be better off buying a new one and hopefully your insurance will cover that.

Danielle Lancaster is a professional photographer who loves sharing her passion with others. Her company Bluedog Photography shoots a range of imagery for corporate and private clients and runs Bluedog Photography Courses, Retreats and Tours Contact: (07) 5545 4777 www.blue-dog.com.au

* This image was taken as the camera took a nose dive into the sea. Unfortunately it ended the cameras life. Thanks to Anna Billingham (C) for allowing us the use of this image