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Weird black/grey dot on my photos?

Started May 30, 2016 | Discussions thread
R2D2 Forum Pro • Posts: 26,551
Re: Weird black/grey dot on my photos?
4

No biggie, it's just a piece of dust on the sensor. All interchangeable-lens cameras pick up dust on occasion.  It's usually noticed the most when shooting at small apertures.

Search "Sensor Dust"  or "Sensor Cleaning".

To see how much dust you have, take a picture of the sky at f/22 (don't overexpose).  Then increase the contrast on the computer as much as possible.  Voila!  Yuck!

Start by doing an auto Sensor Clean.  Then do a dust check.  It'll likely still be on there.

Get youself a good Blower (I like the Rocket Blowers).  Never ever use "Canned Air."  Remove the lens and put its back cap on.  Always use good dust management practices!

Then set your camera to clean Manually (it's in the Menu).  You'll hear the mirror flip up, and the sensor will be exposed.  With the camera pointed down, use the blower to thoroughly blow out the chamber.  Be careful to never let it physically touch any surfaces though.

Shut the camera off and remount your lens.  Do another dust check.  If necessary, "Lather, Rinse, and Repeat."

If the dust is stubborn and won't come off with this minimally invasive procedure, then either send it in for a cleaning or perform a Wet-Clean yourself.  Search "Sensor Wet Clean".  It can be a little nerve-wracking at first, but you'll come to find it's really no big deal.

Good luck to you!

R2

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