cleaning a uv filter

how is it done cannot remove these fingerprints at all, grr there must be an easier way?

Lens cleaning fluid - jusr enough to dampen a microfibre cloth. Allow to evaporate on the filter and then polish off.

I've been breathing on my filters/lenses - is this not advisable? Does it adversely affect the coatings?

breathing is definitely advisable As for breathing on lens I do not think it would hurt but a lens wipe works better.

The last time I mentioned breathing on something (a sensor), I was told that there is all kinds of nasties in breath. It does seem to help though.

Anyway, the LensPen is excellent for cleaning lenses and filters, and better than microfibre cloths in my experience. It works by a dry carbon powder on a felt tip mopping up any grease and dirt. Brush off any remains of the carbon afterwards with the brush in the end of the pen. Also brush off any loose dust beforehand.

Yes, sorry I was a bit flippant, I use the same cloths as I use for my specs, work well and you can do the monitor and the TV as well so no need to waste it whilst it is still damp and there is a clean bit left

I've cleaned all kinds of dirty glass by leaving it in the fridge for about 2 mins and if necessary breathing on it, although it usually mists up on its own, then wiping it with a JML Microfibre cloth or a clean piece of toilet roll. Slightly safer to do it in a radial direction.

shim

thanks folks

Breathing on a filter or front element is fine (I've never carried a fridge around with me so can't comment on that!) but I thought this enquiry was for more stubborn finger prints, in which case a little more may be needed.

My usual clean would be to breath lightly on the lens, allow to evaporate and then wipe with a microfibre cloth. Not on a sensor though. Don't forget to flick off any grit first otherwise you will wipe it across the glass and scratch it.

Clean of last resort is lens cleaning fluid. Only very rarely necessary though.

Sensors are something else entirely.

I give all my lenses and filters a good clean every 3-4 weeks. I never touch the lens glass so fingerprints aren't a problem for me.

The sensors on both my camers get cleaned by me as and when...I take it that was a joke when someone said that they breath on the sensors right!

So that is why all my lenses are in a pristine condition.

Blimey, even my Manfrotto tripod gets cleaned, although that's understandable as this poor thing has been plonked in water, sand, mud etc!

My wife thinks I have OCD with all the cleaning hehehe
I just take great care of my equipment, plus I enjoy cleaning it

Paul

Jackie,

Yes, breathing does help in all sorts of situations.

Re. using the cloth for your specs. I've read that this isn't advisable as they sometimes put chemicals designed for glasses which might adversely effect your lens coatings.

No, someone was not joking. I AM NOT recommending anyone else does it, but breathing on the sensor then using a SensorKlear pen has removed stuck-on particles and marks, without any aparent problems.

Back to the point: lenses and filters. A microfibre cloth on its own, or with cleaning fluid applied to the cloth even in small quantity, can easily leave a residue or smears behind. Examine your lenses and filters using a bright white LED torch at an angle. Or rather, don't, if you want to remain in a state of blissful unknowingness.

Pete, I hope I didn't offend you with my comment about the sensor. If it works for you then go for it.

I tend to hold my breath when I clean my sensor, mainly cos I'm worried about making it worse. My cameras are my life and my job.

No offence meant

Paul

No offence taken, thanks, and I would only breath on the sensor when necessary, or to save money buying yet another expensive cleaning product. This was only very occasionally with my previous cameras. Hopefully my new K20D will never require it.

Phew

Paul