If you want to take crisp, beautiful photos, you’ll need a camera with a properly functioning sensor, and one that’s dirty surely won’t do the job. K & R Photographics, Ft. Mitchell, KY’s go-to store for the best cameras and photography equipment, says whether you’re a professional or amateur photographer, you’ll want to regularly clean the sensor of your digital camera to capture clear, quality images. But if you’ve never cleaned it before, you’ll need to learn how to do so properly to avoid scratching it.

Here are three ways to clean your digital camera’s sensor:

• Use The Auto-Clean Function: Most newer digital cameras come with an auto-clean function, which can be found in your camera’s tool menu. This auto-clean function prompts your camera’s sensor to vibrate, shaking dust off. You may need to repeat this function a couple times to ensure all the loose dirt on your camera’s sensor is gone. 
• Manual Sensor Cleaning: If your camera doesn’t have an auto-clean function, there’s a simple way to manually clean the sensor. You’ll need to purchase special sensor cleaning swabs and solution, which you can find at most camera stores. Squeeze a couple drops of the cleaning solution onto your camera’s sensor and use a swab to wipe it away. Use one swab for each swipe, and only swipe in one direction.
• Have It Cleaned Professionally: If you don’t want to attempt to clean your camera’s sensor yourself, please call K & R Photographics to take care of that for you. Their staff will safely and effectively clean the sensor, ensuring it doesn’t become scratched in the process.

The experts at K & R Photographics say if you use your camera often, cleaning its sensor every few weeks is a good idea. Additionally, if you take the majority of your shots outdoors where pollen or dust is in the air, cleaning it more often may be necessary. To keep the sensor free of dirt between cleanings, point your camera down when changing out the lenses. You should also wipe down the outside of your camera regularly to prevent dust from making its way inside.

For more digital camera sensor cleaning tips and help, visit K & R Photographics next time you’re in the Ft. Mitchell area. You can find store hours and directions on their website. To learn about all of the services they offer and the new and used photo equipment they sell, call them today at (859) 341-6986.