After rain, switch the camera off, wipe the outside with a soft cloth, remove the battery and card, and let everything dry slowly in a dry, airy spot. Do not use direct heat or shake the camera. If water got inside, keep it off and ask a qualified repair service for advice.
First Moves
- Turn the camera off at once. Powered electronics and water do not mix well.
- Move under cover, and wipe off big drops with a clean, soft towel or cloth.
- Remove the lens, battery and memory card only if you can do so in a dry spot, since opening doors in the rain lets water in.
- Put on lens caps and body caps to keep dust out as things dry.
Drying Step by Step
- Place the camera in a dry room on a towel with the lens mount facing down or sideways so water can drain away from the openings.
- Leave the battery door and card door open so air can move through.
- Wipe the outside again with a dry microfibre cloth every so often.
- Use a blower to move air gently around buttons and dials. Avoid pressing hard with cloths into seams.
- Give it at least a day, and longer if it was soaked. Moisture can hide inside seams and under glass.
- Do not turn it on to see if it still works until you are sure it is dry.
Things to Avoid
- Hair dryers and radiators: strong heat can warp plastics and damage seals and electronics.
- Ovens or microwaves: never put gear in either.
- Shaking or tapping: it can push water further in.
- Rice: it is not a reliable method and can leave dust behind.
- Switching on early: power can cause damage if moisture is present.
Lenses, Filters and the Bag
Wipe water off the lens barrel and use a blower and a clean lens cloth on the front and rear glass. If fogging appears inside, store the lens with the caps off in a dry place with some air movement until it clears. For the bag, empty it, open every pocket and let it dry upside down. A damp bag stored closed is a good place for fungus to grow.
What to Do Next
| Situation | Suggested step |
|---|---|
| Light drizzle, gear wiped quickly | Air dry for a few hours |
| Heavy rain, outside soaked | Dry for a day or more |
| Water inside or fog under glass | Keep off; ask for service |
FAQ
Do silica gel packs help?
Placing dry gear and fresh packs together in a closed box can help remove leftover moisture from the air after the outside is dry. They are not a replacement for letting the gear dry first.
Is weather sealing the same as waterproof?
No. Sealing resists splashes and dust to a limit, but it does not mean the camera can be submerged. Check the maker’s guide for what your model allows.
The Short Version
Power down, wipe, open the doors and dry slowly without heat. Wait until you are sure it is dry before turning it on again, and get it checked if water got inside.
