How to Protect Cameras and Film from Humidity
Cameras have gone through a history of evolution, from print to digital. Their colors, sizes and quality have changed a lot in the last few years. However, what has not changed is the important role they play in our lives by preserving memories and giving us a chance to relive them whenever we want. Buying a camera is a big investment and needs to be handled with great care to take the maximum benefit out of it. Cameras are sensitive to humidity, especially the film. Humidity inside the camera can even lead it to rot and mold and make it totally useless. For a photographer, nothing is worse than losing a beautiful machine one he is attached to.
Things required:
– Lint fee cloth piece
– Airtight, hard-sided camera case
– Silica gel desiccant
– Small, porous bags
Instructions
-
1
Get a protection case:
This is the most essential item to buy after you get your camera. Not only does it protect it against humidity, it also saves it from all other kinds of harm like fall and friction. Get a good quality bag from the camera supply store. There are many carrying options available in such bags. This bag can also hold your other equipment like batteries and lenses. Most of them have separate sections for each. Keep your camera in this bag when the environment you are in is humid or the weather is wet. Camera rain coats are also available at supply stores. -
2
Silica gel pouches:
Silica gel desiccants are really helpful for absorbing moisture. Buy loads of these and store them in different parts of your camera case. They usually come in their own small pouches. If they do not, buy some gel and place in porous bags before putting in your case. Most cameras come with the gel at the time of buying. However, you will need to get extra gel to help in humid conditions. Distribute the pouches well around the case.
The gel works by turning pink whenever it absorbs enough moisture. It remains blue in normal conditions. So the color change will let you know when to replace the pouches. -
3
Wipe dry:
If you have wet drops over your camera or visible signs of humidity, use a lint free cloth piece to wipe it dry carefully. Turn off the camera. Remove the battery and dry the battery compartment. Turn it on only after you are sure that the moisture has dried away.
