sensor cleaning - I know - again

Calina · 24-09-2007 3:14pm #1

Does anyone know if anywhere other than Conns does blown air sensor cleaning? I don't really feel like hauling myself into town but will, if I have to.

Before you all descend on me with CopperHill and Dust-Aid comments, I need to clarify - I absolutely cannot use a contact cleaning method on this occasion. There is something fairly significant on my sensor - it's all over photographs taken on Saturday. I'm not entirely sure how it got in there, as it appeared mysteriously in the middle of a continuous shooting burst (ie, the traditional lens changing scenario is out) unless it was already inside the camera.

I'm almost certain that it's a grain of sand which is why a contact cleaning system is out of the question. It needs to be blown out.

Cabaal · 24-09-2007 3:44pm

I assume this is the sand grain that you mentioned on your website?

[EDIT] I should have fully read your post before posting....

rahtkennades · 24-09-2007 4:55pm

Try PRS (Photographic Repair Service) in Portobello Harbour (Behind Portobello College). As recommended in Gunns. They cleaned the sensor on my 350D last week. Not sure what method, but it worked a treat. They know what they're doing, I've left cameras with them before. Tell them your troubles and I'm sure they can help.

Calina · 24-09-2007 5:16pm

Thanks for that. Somewhat mysteriously it's not there any more. I've been looking at it and retesting and it is definitely no longer there.

This is what it looked like.

rahtkennades · 24-09-2007 6:17pm

Ew, that's a nasty one all right.
Not sure, but I presume there's some small gap around the sides of the sensor that it could drop into if the shutter curtain pulled it to one side. Or it's possible it fell off the sensor and is rattling around the body somewhere?

Might be a good idea to get it cleaned anyway to be sure.

BTW the price for the cleaning of mine was €45 if that's any help.

Calina · 24-09-2007 6:24pm

It's possible. I am certain it must have been in there to begin with because of when it appeared. It is sure as hell not there now though, but sand is a big, big problem for me.

rahtkennades · 24-09-2007 8:19pm

Seriously, you should really look at getting a watertight case for that if you'll be using it in the water, or even on the beach. Something like these guys do.

Calina · 24-09-2007 8:34pm

I already use the camera in the water and know the risks. I've actually held in my hand and examined the Aquapac waterproof casing for an SLR camera and found it wanting, not necessarily from the waterproofing point of view but the being able to use the camera effectively point of view. It looked as though it would accommodate an 18-55mm lens okay but not the wide angle and not the shorter zoom. There is no way I am taking the 18-55 Canon kit which is the only lens I have in that range into the water because to be honest, it doesn't look anything like as robust as my Sigma lenses which have all been through hell several times at this stage.

However, it will not protect against this problem which is getting sand into the camera while changing a lens.

that being said, I am looking at water proof casings but the ones I am interested in are very expensive and I want a 40D first.

sensor cleaning - I know - again

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