Maintenance of underwater gear

Owning underwater photography gear is an exciting venture, but it also comes with the responsibility of maintaining it to ensure optimal performance. This article serves as your comprehensive guide on how to properly clean, store, and maintain your underwater photography gear including cameras, filters, and lighting equipment. Let's dive in!

Why is maintenance important?

Maintaining your underwater gear is crucial for several reasons:

• To extend the lifespan of your equipment.
• To ensure the quality of your underwater photography remains high.
• To prevent corrosion and damage from saltwater exposure.

Cleaning your underwater gear

1. Rinse after each use

After every dive, it's essential to rinse your gear with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris. Here’s how:

• Submerge the equipment in fresh water for a few minutes.
• Use a soft brush to gently clean filters and lenses.
• Blow out sand and dirt using a blower or soft cloth.

2. Cleaning lenses and filters

Maintaining the clarity of your lenses and filters is vital:

1. Use a microfiber cloth for cleaning.
2. Avoid harsh chemicals – instead, use a lens cleaning solution.
3. Store your filters in a protective case to prevent scratches.

Storing your underwater gear

1. Ideal storage conditions

To avoid degradation and ensure longevity, store your gear in the following conditions:

• Dry and cool environment.
• Avoid exposing the equipment to direct sunlight.
• Consider using silica gel packets to reduce humidity.

2. Organizing your storage

Keeping your gear organized can prevent damage:

• Use padded cases to safeguard equipment.
• Label cases for easy identification.

Regular maintenance checks

1. Inspecting seals and o-rings

Pressure seals are crucial for underwater housing; ensure they are:

• Free of debris or sand.
• Free from cracks or damage.

2. Battery maintenance

Be mindful of your camera batteries:

• Recharge batteries after each use; avoid complete discharges.
• Store batteries in a cool place and check them regularly for leaks.

Documenting maintenance

Keeping a log of your maintenance activities will help you track your gear's condition:

• Record dates of cleaning and inspections.
• Take note of any repairs or replacements needed.

Conclusion

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your underwater photography gear in prime condition, ensuring you capture breathtaking images during your dives. For more in-depth information regarding specific underwater photography products, check out our articles on underwater housings, camera filters, and dive lights and strobes.

Tips for beginners