In today’s world of technological advances, it seems that more and more people are purchasing digital cameras. The majority choose to go with the smaller, slimmer and more compact digital cameras, while others opt for the more professional SLR digital cameras (single lens reflex). And while the prices of these sleek cameras are coming ever lower, they still warrant the proper care to keep them in proper care.

There are three main hazards to the upkeep of your camera. 1) water, 2) dirt and Dust and 3) damage from being dropped. All three can be prevented from damaging your camera with the proper precautions.

1. Water and Moisture

As you can guess, water and cameras do not mesh very well. Water damage can occur in many different ways. If you are taking your camera out in rainy weather, make sure that you keep it in its’ protective camera case, or a plastic bag if no camera case is available. The same should be done if you are at the beach or pool, as the threat of accidentally dropping your camera in the water is great. Another threat comes from condensation. Have you ever worn glasses and come in from being outside and your glasses fog? The same can happen to your camera. Keeping your camera in its protective camera case, can help the temperature of your camera change more gradually. This can prevent water damage to the internal workings of your camera.

2. Dirt and Dust

Dirt and dust can literally be found everywhere, in your house, your car, at work, or outside, even in your purses (ladies). These fine particulates can damage your lens, and if they get inside the camera, they can damage the interior workings, and the best way to avoid dust and dirt damage is to keep your digital camera away from overt situations. For example, if you are going to a horse competition on a dry, windy day. If you are going to be in a situation where dust and dirt are all around, be sure to keep the camera in its bag while not in use, and when you get home, be careful to clean the dirt from the exterior of the camera.

3. Damage from being dropped

Probably the most common damage to a camera is caused from being dropped. Dropping your camera can cause anything from a minor scratch to a broken lens. However, it is probably the greatest hazard to your camera. The best way to prevent dropping your camera is to make sure to use the wrist strap or neck strap that is usually provided with the camera upon purchase. When not in use, make sure to put your camera away. Just make sure to know where your camera is, and to take care of it.

In Conclusion, cameras are expensive, and yet fragile, instruments. They can provide you with great joy and everlasting memories, but also heartache when not cared for properly. Make sure that you protect them from water, dirt, and damage from impacts, or being dropped, to ensure that they last a long time!

Melissa Clark is founder of the website www.BestDigitalCameraPro.com, a subsidiary of Clark Unlimited, Inc. – providing top quality compact and SLR digital cameras, and accessories, from well-known manufactures such as Nikon, Casio, Canon and more.