Amateur photographers spend a small chunk of their life savings on their cameras and accessories—so they have serious incentives to make it last.
To avoid emergency repairs you need to implement a regular upkeep and maintenance plan. Periodic checkups and healthy daily routines will ensure that your camera stays out of the repair shop and in your hands, where it should be.
To keep your camera in tip-top shape ensure that you heed the following camera maintenance advice from top manufacturers and top photographers.
Digital Cameras
Digital cameras have many tiny moving parts—so keeping it clean will ensure it doesn’t jam—something that would cost you a pricey trip to the repair shop. When cleaning the lens you should use only alcohol-based solutions or commercial camera cleaning products
Cleaning
If you find your camera is even mildly dusty it should be cleaned. Do not wipe it clean with your hands or anything abrasive as this can jam the dust into the moving small mechanical parts, instead use a blower brush or a very fine soft-tissue towel.
Storage
Use the case whenever the camera is not in use—and ensure you place the camera in the case whenever it is being stored in a drawer, bag, counter, etc. Do not store your digital camera near any magnets or areas ridden with moisture or sunlight.
Batteries
Camera batteries can be very fickle. Whenever possible remove the batteries from the camera—especially for long-term storage. Do not over-charge the camera battery as this can cause leaks in the battery; leaks of battery acid which can corrode your camera.
Digital maintenance
Digital cameras are vulnerable to viruses just like small computers and smartphones, so scan your camera, memory card and photos regularly.
Analog Cameras
Traditional non-digital cameras should be treated with all the above tips for digital cameras. Analog cameras also need regular cleanings. This can be done by a professional or by yourself (if you have the knowledge of the parts). Analog cameras are purchased in pieces—lens, body, flash, etc—which means the joints where the pieces meet will need to be cleaned periodically.
Under Water Cameras
Under-water cameras are regularly exposed to the elements which means they need to be well-taken care of. First, avoid exposure to salt, water and minerals whenever possible—so put it in its case whenever it is not being used. After diving rinse or soak the camera (in its case) with water to remove any excess salt or minerals.
Keep the o-ring in top shape by checking it before and after every dive, ensuring to examine it for nicks or cracks. Keep your o-ring well lubricated, but not over lubricated—a properly lubricated o-ring will look moist and shiny but not greasy or dripping