PhotogHobbyist Loc: Bradford, PA

I started SLR photography back in 1970 when I bought a camera from the store on a Navy ship. We were on a cruise to the Mediterranean. The saltwater spray and occasional rain storms while at sea really had little affect on my gear. During that same trip, I was attached to a U.S. Marine Infantry Unit and we were ashore on mock landing practices and I carried the camera during those maneuvers, putting up with rain, dust and varied temperatures. Again no problems arose. That camera continued to give me great service until about the mid 80s when I attempted to take photos of a partial solar eclipse with a telephoto lens and apparently that affected the primary shutter curtain, making small holes in it. Otherwise I never had a problem with that camera.

Having typed all that, I think the camera makers have built each of their camera models efficiently and appropriately to have some protection against the potential of dirt and moisture affecting the mechanics and electronics of the camera. Caution and protective measures should be employed but the occasional dust, dirt or rain water on a camera will likely cause little harm.

wingate2417 Loc: Quincy, Ca.

Most Pentax cameras are weather proof’d. Great cameras and lenses.