Camera/Lens Protection

Hi all.

I'm holidaying for 6 weeks in the US later this year (Oct/Nov).

My travels will include the Mojave/Grand Canyon/Monument Valley and surrounding desert regions.

I'll be travelling with my 40D and various L series lenses, all housed in a good quality Lowepro bag.

I'm just a little concerned about dust and sand.

Is my gear resistant enough (weather sealing) or will I need extra protection? If so...what do you recommend?

I honestly wouldn't worry about it.

Just watch when you change lenses.

Your body isn't really sealed against the weather. Some L lenses are but may require the use of a UV filter to seal the front of the lens.

I think if you aren't roughing it and camping out and really exposing the gear to the elements and using a good bag and such, no care other than cleaning is needed. Maybe a UV filter to prevent stuff from flying into the front element but I don't see things getting that windy where you are planning to go (I could be wrong here though).

If it was me, I'd probably just take some cleaning gear and maybe UV filters if you are concerned about dusts on the front element.

Rocket Blower and Lens Pen (brush end) are your best defense against front elements getting grungy out here in the desert.

Quick Blow -> Quick Brush Swipe -> Go Shoot

Trash bag. You cut the corner and stretch it over the hood. The whole thing is protected and you need simply put your head in the bag and shoot. I do that if i fear it's going to rain on a walk..

I guess you are fine as long as you watch out for dust. But MAKE SURE you pay close attention to where you are walking and being aware of where are the rocks that may trip you.

You can tie it around the lens when you don't want to use it too.

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the replies.

I guess what I'm really driving at is whether there's any chance the dust/sand might find its way into the various nooks and crannies of the camera, without some kind of casing or armour?

I appreciate it's best not to change lenses in these sorts of environments. However, are there any areas (beyond the lens) which are susceptible to particulate matter getting in?

I'd hate to come home and find the Mode Dial, Main Dial or shutter button etc suddenly feel 'gritty' when turned/pressed etc

Anyone had this problem?

your L lenses are fine, they are sealed enough to not let dust/sand in, whereas the body, I also own 40D and I always professionally clean the body after holiday (about 3-4 times per year, at a cost of $55 AUD - involves cleaning the sensor, mirror, and viewfinder)

MatthewW wrote in post #9472737
Thanks everyone. I appreciate the replies.

I guess what I'm really driving at is whether there's any chance the dust/sand might find its way into the various nooks and crannies of the camera, without some kind of casing or armour?

I appreciate it's best not to change lenses in these sorts of environments. However, are there any areas (beyond the lens) which are susceptible to particulate matter getting in?

I'd hate to come home and find the Mode Dial, Main Dial or shutter button etc suddenly feel 'gritty' when turned/pressed etc

Anyone had this problem?

Unless you go to the extent of changing lenses in the middle of a duststorm or with your hands covered in sand, I would say the chances are very slim.

I dont think i have ever heard of dust problems like those.

neilwood32 wrote in post #9473301
Unless you go to the extent of changing lenses in the middle of a duststorm or with your hands covered in sand, I would say the chances are very slim.

I dont think i have ever heard of dust problems like those.

I agree, I just think your over thinking and over worrying...

p.s. the term holiday always throws me off as it's not in the correct context used here in america

have fun shooting those beautiful places! They are AWESOME!

gorgon2k wrote in post #9475039
I agree, I just think your over thinking and over worrying...

Not really. Have never been in such an environment. Am just thinking ahead....

And I'm using the term 'holidaying' as it's understood here in Australia.

Thanks everyone for your thoughtful replies.

The location I would more or less warn you about are the Slot Canyons near Page, Arizona.

If you happen to visit Upper or Lower Antelope or Canyon X, the sand is on everything down below and it is quite fine. That's one location where I would not even begin to think about changing lenses. There's no where to set anything down and you will be quite dirty yourself so have a little extra care if you go to these spots.