Keeping Camera Equipment Germ-free

Unless you’re extremely lucky, you probably don’t have enough DSLR cameras for every photographer on your yearbook staff. You figured out a system for sharing and it was working pretty well until COVID-19 hit. Now you have to worry about more than just making sure the equipment is returned in time for your next big event. We’re thinking about germs more than ever, and shared camera equipment is one way they can spread. We’ve put together some camera sanitizing tips to help your staff stay healthy while continuing to capture stunning photographs.

Products to Use

Professional photographer and former yearbooker Mitchell Franz cautioned not to use any cleaning solution that would damage external surfaces. He recommends isopropyl alcohol because it efficiently kills germs but is also quick to evaporate without leaving a residue. According to the CDC, solutions with at least 70% alcohol are effective at killing the virus. For lens cleaning, Franz uses a 50:50 mix of Windex and 90% Isopropyl Alcohol solution.

USA Canon recommends a lint-free or microfiber cloth. They also suggest wearing disposable rubber gloves while cleaning your camera, and properly disposing of them after. If you’re in a rush or on the go, disposable isopropyl or disinfecting wipes are easy to carry around and use.

How to Do It

1. Turn off your camera, remove the battery, and make sure it’s unplugged.
2. Pre-moisten your lint-free or microfiber cloth with the solution you’re using, then wipe the exterior surfaces of your camera. Give extra attention to high-touch areas, like the shutter button.

A Few Extra Tips

This is an electronic device. Use the appropriate precautions when cleaning your DSLR camera.

• Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for your equipment.
• Make sure the camera is disconnected from all power sources before cleaning, and don’t overdo the moisture.
• Don’t spray your cleaning solution directly on the camera! Spray your solution on the cloth you’re using.
• Do not use cleaners that could damage your equipment! This includes solutions like paint thinners or benzene.
• The solution you use for the camera body will be different from what you use on your lens.

More questions about cleaning your camera? Check out this helpful video from Canon.

Are most of your staff members using their phones to take pictures? Remind them that it’s important to sanitize those, too. And remind your staff to take appropriate safety precautions when they’re photographing around other people.

Stay safe and stay healthy.