You spent a small fortune buying your photography gear. Do you know how to keep your equipment safe? Here are some tips:
- Never leave your gear exposed to direct sunlight or high temperatures longer than necessary. The temperature inside a car left under the sun can cook your cameras inside and out.
- If you're getting near any body of water, be sure you protect your cameras by placing them inside plastic bags. Watch out for spray. Use the strap to prevent dropping your gear into the water. The strap should always be either around your neck or looped around your shooting hand.
- Planning to take a plane? X-rays in airports can wreak havoc on UNDEVELOPED film and their effect is cumulative. Ask for a hand-inspection for your film if possible.
- The names Lowepro, Domke, Tamrac, and the like are like beacons that call out to thieves. They transmit the signal "EXPENSIVE GEAR INSIDE. TAKE ME." Try not to advertise the fact that you are carrying precious gear by using other bags, especially when you plan to go to crowded places. How about using a chest cooler if you want to leave your gearin your car or a very pink baby diaper bag for photowalks? No thief would care about those.
- While you have time, try to ctalogue your gear. A list of all items, complete with brand and model name, serial number, and a digital id pic could come in handy - just in case.
- Keep a UV or skylight filter on your lens all the time. Don't lose your lens cap. The lens cap and UV filter help to keep the glass on your lens scratch and dirt-free. I keep several extra lens caps stowed along with my gear. Lenses are way too expensive just to be rendered useless by a nasty scratch.
- Throw in a packet of dessicant inside your camera. Dessicants absorb moisture and they help prevent rust and corrosion in your cameras. Of course, it would really help if you could wipe your cameras clean just before stowing them in their bags.