My go to lens is quite heavy and it takes a lot of space to store if attached to the camera, so I’ve been storing my camera without the lens in a dry box. I had to change some parts on the camera recently because it was getting loose (can’t remember the name of the parts) - the people said it was usually because of heavy lenses. I did some search on Google and most say they left their lens on - less dust issues. How do you store your camera? Do you leave your lens on and why?
I store with lenses, but leave lighter ones on, like pancake lenses. I mainly just do that because over the years I've found I've lost some lens rear and camera body caps, and should probably get more of them and store them separately.
Lens on; the rear of the lens cover and the "cap" of the body will usually (if same brand) screw together and can be stored so as to not lose them. As an aside note - if using a manual lens, it's a good idea to store them with the diaphragm (aperture) at highest F-stop to minimize tension on internal parts. Additionally - invest in a Pelican or comparable case (there are other excellent brands).
I only have dust issues every 2-3 years so I really don’t mind about dust. Is it your only reason for storing it with lens?
Any reason why you keep the lens on? Pelican or comparable case are not ideal for storing where I live, only dry boxes and cabinets because of the humidity
I usually keep it on primarily to minimize potential dust with lens changes but also to arrive and ready to go for my particular style of shooting. I usually have two bodies: each with the two usual lenses for my shooting style (or whatever is planned for that day). I've arrive on-scene and immediately captured shots I would've missed - had I had to fumble with popping covers and attaching the lens /body (really, not kidding - - - not many; but that old adage of "your first shot is sometimes your best one" has proven true many times). Maybe you can make a dry box from marine-grade products? If portability is of concern; Pelican cases are quite ideal and can easily be modified to incorporate humidity-control via silica-based products. Also see: https://cpcases.com/us/products/protective-cases/
Got it! For my cameras, I just put the lenses on before leaving my place but I never had to rush anything for my sessions. Marine-grade stuff isn’t a thing here lol. Even Pelican cases are super expensive compared to the US prices but the dark colored cases and paddings are a big no, it will get moldy right away even with silica gels/dehumidifier boxes. CP Cases is not available My options is very limited for those kind of cases. Did you recommend it because it’s sturdy?
Any of those Pelican-like cases are sturdy and check all the boxes that any photographer might need. But you might be able to get them cheap on-line or at old Army-Surplus stores on-line. I've gotten old beaters all scratched to hell for pennies on the dollar - tossed in new inserts and good to go. High humidity areas are a bit of a challenge - but so too are very dry and hot regions; will turn that cheap rubber or plastic to a gooey thin film residue over time if left unchecked. Best of luck to you and welcome to the forum!
Yeah those kind of online stores are not a thing either here haha, I wish I were in the US! Thank you! Been around for a few months but had to take a little break
I usually keep the lens on but I keep it supported. Now the vintage lenses off camera are what I really worry about, some of them have oil in them that if I keep them stagnant it starts to pool. Especially in my Isco Anamorphic. I usually keep the silica gel packets from shipping just to keep moisture out also. I'd say if you do choose to store it without lens face the camera down to prevent dust from getting to the sensor.
