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Cleaning a Nikon DSLR

A Nikon DSLR---or digital single lens reflex camera---requires regular cleaning to ensure proper operation and help you capture flawless photos. Failure to clean the camera can allow dust or lint to build up on the camera and cause damage over time. Small grains of sand, dirt or dust rub against the sensitive lens, monitor and viewfinder of the camera, which can leave behind small scratches or chips.

Things You'll Need

Compressed air
Soft cloths
Lens cleaner
Leather chamois

Instructions

- 1
  Blow all dust or lint away from the body of the camera and the lens with a can of compressed air. If you do not have a can of air, you can gently blow on the camera to remove visible dust.
- 2
  Wipe the body of the camera with a clean, soft cloth to remove any remaining debris.
- 3
  Dampen a soft cloth with a small amount of lens cleaner and wipe the camera lens, mirror and viewfinder to remove fingerprints or residue. Wipe gently and carefully to avoid scratching the glass.
- 4
  Wipe the monitor of the Nikon DSLR with a soft cloth or a leather chamois to remove dirt or fingerprints. Do not press on the monitor or use any liquid, as it may cause damage.
- 5
  Scroll through the setup menu of your Nikon DSLR to locate the "Clean Image Sensor" option on the camera's monitor.
- 6
  Press the right directional button to select the cleaning cycle and the menu will change, giving you the option to clean the image sensor now or clean it at start-up or shutdown.
- 7
  Highlight the desired cleaning cycle and press the right directional button again. The camera will either begin the cleaning cycle immediately or commence cleaning on start-up or shutdown, based on your selection.

Photography