jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

That's a good result. From my experience cleaning sensors, the first attempt removes some spots and deposits others. I use a loupe to check the condition after each swipe. I prefer cleaning sensors myself.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

I think you've done a good enough job. The 'after' image, shot at f/11, still has a good deal of spots, especially in the upper right quadrant of the image as we view the file. I use mostly just a Giotto rocket blower and my Sony a7II's 'sensor shake' that is an on-demand cleaning process in that camera's menu.

Ignore the nonsense about the vacuum cleaner. I haven't heard the use of wetwipes in the past, but having used a DIY sensor cleaning wipe, I can see how the Zeiss wipes are not that much different, especially for a mirrorless sensor.

My experience is that if (a) you do initially a 'wet clean' against a sensor in your 'before' image and (b) get it a bit cleaner than your current 'after' image, then you just need to actively manage sensor dust with the Giotto blower going forward.

An exercise in sensor cleaning

SalvageDiver Loc: Huntington Beach CA

The real question that needs to be answered is: "are the cleaning chemicals in the Zeiss lens cleaners long-term compatible with the sensor coatings." Will the wipes do any damage with repeated use over the long term?

Aside from that, it appears that you got most of the spots. However, there are light spots remaining in the upper corners of your sensor. Does that warrant having a professional clean your sensor? NO. In most cases it won't be noticeable, especially if you use a large aperture.

While a loupe is a good first pass, the real test is to test using a real image. When I test for sensor spots, I use a white background, (i.e. my monitor), set it to be out of focus and set my aperture to the smallest value (f/16 or f/22). I then look at the image using LR or PS. LR has a spot detection feature while PS is manual but more sensitive. In PS, I create a curve adjustment layer and create a solarization curve which brings shows any spots even if their not visible in the normal image. I create a brightness contrast layer above that, setting contrast to 100 and vary the brightness. This shows all the spots on the sensor.

While Sony Edge software doesn't support curves, there are quite a few free editing applications that do.

Layers________________________Solarization Curve___________________Brightness/Contrast


OP's sensor before cleaning


OP's sensor after cleaning

Dennis833 Loc: Australia

I would only recommend using the proper sensor swabs and Eclipse fluid. Easy to do and the only safe way IMO.

rjriggins11 Loc: Colorado Springs, CO

I'll be more than happy to take care of the camera for you and keep the cost as low as possible.

Most items can be repaired for around $50 - $150 + parts, if necessary, which are supplied at or near cost and I will contact you first for authorization if additional parts are necessary.

Simple camera cleanings cost less, $35 - $50 + S&H. This includes a thorough service and check-out for good working order. I’ll detail the body exterior, clean the mirror cage and viewscreens, update the firmware, clean the sensor spotless and I’ll even clean the inside of thee body cap for you.

Return shipping & handling usually runs about $20 anywhere within the U.S.

Most repairs will take about a week to ten days if no special order parts are needed.

All repairs are warranteed for 90 days, parts and labor.

The easiest way to have your camera equipment repaired is to simply ship it to me via your favorite carrier at the address below. Most use the US Mail Priority flat rate boxes that run about $15 anywhere in the country. PLEASE DO NOT SEND IT “SIGNATURE REQUIRED”.

Include a fully charged battery and charger, if possible, as most of these are proprietary to the camera and it is impossible to stock them all.

Please pack everything carefully allowing at least 2"-3" of padding all the way around.

Be sure to include a note with a brief description of the problem, any time constraints and your contact information (Name, Address, Email address & Telephone Number). Also, if you haven't done so, please visit my website – www.discountcamerarepair.com and fill out the contact form.

I can be reached at the telephone number below if you have any further questions.


Thank You,

Rick Riggins
Discount Camera Repair
PO Box 26261
Colorado Springs, CO  80936
(719)219-6884, eve's
WWW.DiscountCameraRepair.com

PhotoMono123 Loc: Houston, Texas

Amazon Camera Sensor Cleaning Kit — Order today and on your porch tomorrow!

You spent a bunch for your camera; use the right tools to clean it.

nimbushopper Loc: Tampa, FL

Kooks like you did a good job!

burkphoto Loc: High Point, NC

There is no reason to think you CAN'T clean your own sensor, unless you have some sort of hand tremors or an inability to read and follow instructions.

Start with a blower bulb — the Giottos Rocket Blower and the Orbit HEPA Blower are made for cleaning surface dust from lenses and sensors and other sensitive gear. (DO NOT use "canned air.")

Stubborn spots such as oil/grease, sticky particles, etc. can be removed with a Sensor Swab and Eclipse fluid. Sensor Swabs are made specifically to clean sensors, and they come in three sizes. Eclipse is a highly purified alcohol or alcohol mix.

These links will help you get it right:

http://www.cleaningdigitalcameras.com is an instructional site that lists many different tools you might use, and discusses the pros and cons of each.

https://photosol.com is the source for Eclipse and Sensor Swabs.

I've cleaned my own sensors for years. Often, the blower bulb is all I need. But at least once a year, I've used the wet cleaning tools.

sippyjug104 Loc: Missouri

Job well done.

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

Wrong again.

Boone Loc: Groundhog Town USA

I have used the "Vacuum Method" in the past. "But"...I got a handheld (Much like a hair dryer) vacuum/blower from Amazon with a "Hepa Filter" on the end. (came with the filters and pads) Not quite as powerful as a house vacuum, so the suction was perfect. I have to admit that I was somewhat frightened at first...but thought it trough and took the leap. I have never been disappointed yet!

I still use the regular cleaning kits to some extent.

I have a friend who works with these types of things (Sensors) and he just laughed and said..."I use one similar to that every day"!!! That made me more confident in my vacuum idea!

If your careful you can clean your own sensor. They are much stronger than you think.

Thanks,
Boone.

bobfitz Loc: Kendall-Miami, Florida

Absolutely!!!

MJPerini

Be aware that vacuum cleaners are notorious for creating static electricity, very bad for electronics.
That does not mean they can't be used, but I'd add an extra ground wire to the metal vacuum tube and keep it short.
They do sell 'venturi' vacuums that run off compressed air in a can.

Looks like you did a fine job

rjriggins11 Loc: Colorado Springs, CO

Hi. My name is Rick. I’m the owner and lead technician at Discount Camera Repair and a member in good standing here at the UHH. I’ve been doing repairs for other members here at greatly discounted rates and would be glad to help.

I'd be more than happy to take care of the camera for you and keep the cost as low as possible. If you’re interested, please respond by private message.

Boone Loc: Groundhog Town USA

Thank you for the information!!! I have your info. stored in a safe place.

Very thoughtful of you indeed!!!

Thanks,
Boone.