Spot on my sensor

[sparkie1263]

How can I clean a spot on my sensor. I removed the lens and tried to clean the mirror and the focus screen but the spot is still there.
Thanks
Frank

I read the the book and was able to clean it.

[DonSchap]

Good job, Frank ... even with the power down sensor shake, some "ionized" dust finds a way to stick to the sensor. Thankfully, a few careful directed bursts of air from a Giottos Rocket Blaster takes care of 99% of this kind of annoyance.

To be honest, they should include one of these with every DSLR sold and instructions on how to properly use it. I know nobody would read those, so perhaps a series of instructional IMAGES ... because photographers relate to pictures much better than the written word. Also, the language would be "universal."

It has the potential to improve the image quality of a lot more shots, especially if you have more than one lens for your rig.

[sparkie1263]

I tried to clean the mirror and the screen but they didn't come out clean. I used lens tissue and some lens cleaner. I hope that cleaner was the right cleaner to use. I know it is a little late to be asking.
Thanks
Frank

[DonSchap]

Was the spot on your viewfinder, not the sensor?

If it were the veiwfinder or mirror, the worst you will do is mess up the autofocusing. Cleaning it with a proper solution should not be an issue, but when it comes to that digital sensor ... best use blown air only (not the canned-stuff, either), if possible or if it is too bad ... have it taken care of professionally.

[The Mangler]

If you can see it in the viewfinder it will not show up in the picture (a dusty viewfinder is annoying for sure, but at least you don't have to worry about any of that showing up in the picture). If it is on the sensor (the only way you would see it in the picture) you will not be able to see it through the viewfinder.

[Elisha82]

don't mean to bring this thread back to life for no reason but i noticed 2 specks on my sensor too. i did the cleaning mode shake then opened the lens and the mirror folds up and the sensor is visible. i can see 2 spots on the sensor and it shows up in pics as well mostly when i use F8 or greater.
is there any other alternatives other than the rocket blaster that is easier for the faint of heart?

[dr4gon]

I'm glad you found the cleaning mode and had the thought to open up the camera. Took me a while to figure that out, LOL. I'm not too keen on reading manuals..... anyways.... the rocket blaster is the best and safest way to clean it. It's the first line of defense against a dirty/dusty sensor. I'd recommend you pick one up like the Giottos AA1900 Large blower. It's like ~$10. Until then, leave it a lone and photoshop the specs out!

[Elisha82]

i tried reflecting the sensor against the light but could not see the spots till i decided to breathe in it then when the it showed me the 2 specks.

[dr4gon]

mmmm I've got a couple that I think are still there. I guess breathing on it is OK. I probably need to blow it out a few more times.

[Elisha82]

i found the Rocket Blower at a local shop online for $10.99 may as well give it a shot when i get a chance to pick it up.
so do i do it with the sensor facing down so that the dust does not blow back inside?

[peterf]

A few months ago I had a spot on my KM 5D sensor. It would not blow off with air. I borrowed an Arctic Brush and that did not get it either. After a lot of research I purchased some "Visible Dust"cleaner and swabs on line.
I read the instructions, took a deep breath and wet cleaned my sensor.
It worked perfectly. It is not really a difficult task if you follow the instructions and have a steady hand.

Peter

[DonSchap]

Yes ... let Gravity do it's job. It's the law!

Be careful not to whack the tip of the nozzle into the sensor when you apply that puff of air to it. It's a little too easy to do, if you are not careful ... and dents don't come off!

Good luck :D

[Elisha82]

yeah that's what i was worried about.....accidentally hitting the internal parts or touching the sensor itself trying to produce the ultimate pump of air.

btw what the sensor shake....where does the loose dust drop off to?
is there some stick tape or something to catch them?

[DonSchap]

That's a question you may have to address with SONY. I always thought there was a molecular disintregrator in the bottom of the sensor box ... zzzzzzap ... all gone!