After I posted my last in-depth video on DSLR sensor cleaning, I decided to create a 5 minute version of DSLR sensor wet cleaning, so that our readers could see how simple the process actually is. I was getting the equipment prepped for Lola’s last photo shoot and while I was in the process of cleaning everything, I thought it might be a good idea to do a short version for the impatient ones out there. This wet cleaning process is easy, because I use ready-to-go tools (sensor swab + fluid) from VisibleDust. It is certainly not a cheap product, given the $3 cost of each swab, but it does a good job of keeping your DSLR sensor clean when compared to other solutions out there. Either way, the below process is much cheaper than sending your camera for $50 or more every time you need the sensor cleaned. As a photographer, you should learn how to do this yourself.
In the video, I mention that you should only use a swab once. You can also use the other side of the swab, but you might end up putting the dust back on the sensor if you don’t keep the swab properly angled. I find that it is best to use swabs once, but you might get better results. When inserting the swab, tilt it horizontally first, so that you do not touch the top and bottom parts of the chamber. Don’t forget to do the same when removing it. You might find some dust specs on the side of the sensor, where you picked up the swab. If those specs do not disturb you, just leave them there. If they do, then you have two choices – either to use corner swabs or a sensor brush to pick up those remaining dust specs. I personally do not worry about them unless the dust particles are huge.
I know that some people will try to reuse the swabs, but I highly recommend NOT to do it. Do not try to wash and dry the swabs either – this particular product is designed for one time use only. Trying to wash and reuse the product might introduce other nasty stuff besides dust on your sensor. You have been warned!
Let me know if you have any questions – below are the links to the three products in the video:
About Nasim Mansurov
Thank you. This is a simple but great instructions.
Simple and nice, thanks for the video.
Thanks Nasim for the great video. I have been very paranoid about cleaning my D700′s sensor but now feel much more confident. Have you also tried the Visible Dust “Arctic Butterfly” electrostatic sensor cleaning brush? I understand a lot of photographers are using this brush for simple dust cleaning and the Vswabs for tougher jobs. The brush is quite expensive by itself and even more so with the add-on “Sensor Loupe”.
Would appreciate your opinion on what you think is really necessary for the job.
Thanks!
Thanks Nasim, great video!
Thanks for advice.
I watched your three videos…and did clean the Leica M-9 that I just bought a month ago . When I used it the first time, there was already few dust spots and i did not know how to get rid of it…after watching your videos I did!
Funny, I have been using a Nikon D-300 for two years and i change lenses very often…never a dust on the sensor!!!
Nasim,
Your website is an invaluable tool for photographers at all levels. I admire the example you set, and your willingness to share. Keep it up!
Ryan
I also found this quite useful. Like the other poster, I wondered why you did not go the brush route. I guess one obvious reason is cost. Is going brush first more cost effective than simply going to the wipes? Perhaps not.
Very helpful video! Thanks a bunch.
Thanks Nasim. It is great to have someone like you with a helping attitude. God bless you.
Thanks Nasim. It is wonderful to have some one like you with helpful advice. God bless you.
The best way to clean a DSLR :) :
That’s great stuff! LOL :)
Nasim,
The new D7000 I bought had some oil spots. I saw this video and ordered the visible dust kit and cleaned it as you said in the video and now everything is clean and dandy.
I tried the eclipse pre-moistened swabs(before i saw this video) on my D70s and wasn’t too happy with the results. For one, the swabs had dried out and I just got 3 in a pack and used them all to get it clean.
With visible dust all i did was one swipe with one swab and the sensor was clean. But I did buy the 16 pack swabs and the liquid separately for future use, if needed.
Thanks for the article and video !
Hi there, i also own a D7000 and i just wanted to ask a question that might sound silly to you…well here is my question…does the dust on my sensor appears in videos also or is it just on photos? thanx in advance.
vasilis
Greece