Going to the beach

[kawoold]

Hi, I'm going to be heading out to the beach soon, and wanted some advice on what I should do to make sure my camera and lenses don't get messed up. I know the sand, salt, and water can be a real nightmare, but what can I do to protect my camera from it?

[another view]

Specifics would depend on the camera, but be as careful as you can. Ziploc freezer bags can come in handy, and you might want a small towel just in case.

[fx101]

Hi, I'm going to be heading out to the beach soon, and wanted some advice on what I should do to make sure my camera and lenses don't get messed up. I know the sand, salt, and water can be a real nightmare, but what can I do to protect my camera from it?

Unless you're shooting a "housed" camera, keep it away from water and by all means do not let sand get on your lens elements--sand is quartz and can scratch the coatings or the lens itself.

[brmill26]

I've also found that if it's windy (and it always is), and you shoot much facing the ocean, you'll have (slight, but more noticeable) salt build-up on the front element. Absolutely use some sort of UV or other filter!

[kawoold]

I've got a Canon Rebel XT, and UV lens filters for all my lenses. I really want to go down on the beach and take pictures, so I guess I'll just make sure to keep it covered with the cap on whenever I'm not about to take a picture, and keep my lenses I'm not using in ziploc bags.

[freygr]

I've got a Canon Rebel XT, and UV lens filters for all my lenses. I really want to go down on the beach and take pictures, so I guess I'll just make sure to keep it covered with the cap on whenever I'm not about to take a picture, and keep my lenses I'm not using in ziploc bags.

A good camera bag is all that is needed, unless you are planing on long walks, then a small camera back pack. The main thing is to keep the equipment covered when you are not taking photos. A camera case is a good investment. The ziploc bags are better for wet weather, but get some little bags of discussant to throw in to keep condensation from forming.