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How to Protect Camera Gear in Salt Spray

When taking pictures on the beach or on a boat, it is important to remember that salt spray is an enemy to the life of your still or video camera. Salt spray is made up of vapors that are released into the air when ocean waves crash onto the shore. Because of the high mineral content of saltwater, the spray is filled with an unusually high amount of sodium and other minerals. These minerals have a corrosive effect on your camera equipment. Protecting your equipment means shielding it from salt spray.

Things You'll Need

Commercial camera rain fly
Gallon sized freezer bag
Scissors
Masking tape
Trash bag
Underwater housing

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase a commercially made rain shield for your camera equipment. These rain shields are made for professionals who have to take pictures in adverse weather conditions. They create a moisture-proof barrier around camera equipment while still providing easy access to the sensors and dials for photographers.
- 2
  Protect smaller camera equipment and parts when not in use by storing them in gallon-sized freezer bags. These bags can be sealed to prevent moisture from reaching their contents.
- 3
  Create a homemade vapor shield around your camera by cutting a small hole in the end of a trash bag. Tape this hole around the end of your lens tube with masking tape. Then close the rest of the camera by wrapping the trash bag around it. You can access your camera by unwrapping the bag just enough to reach the camera. This will shield the delicate sensors from salt spray.
- 4
  Invest in an underwater housing for your camera. This type of housing locks out all moisture, allowing you to use your camera underwater. Above the water, it will keep out salt spray.

Photography