How should I store a film SLR and lenses long term?
Asked 3/22/2015
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I have a film SLR and several lenses that I may not use for many months or even years, but I want to keep them in good working condition. What’s the best way to store the camera body and lenses for long-term storage? I’m especially concerned about humidity, temperature, batteries, and whether the camera should be sealed away or exercised occasionally.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
11y ago
2 Answers
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"What is the best way to store it and its lenses so that [they] remain in good shape?"
If you want to keep the camera in good working order (as opposed to keeping it in good cosmetic condition), then what you need to do is NOT wrap it up in bubble wrap and packing tape, but use it! You don't need to run film through it, but you need to exercise the shutter a few times and keep mechanical parts moving, i.e. stopping down lenses, etc. I have read suggestions of doing this once a month. Once a year might not be often enough.
Store it with batteries out. It should be stored somewhere that is neither damp/humid nor subject to extremes of temperature; room temperature is good.
Originally by user38159. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user38159
11y ago
0
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For long-term storage, keep the gear clean, capped, dry, and at stable room temperature. Remove all batteries before storing. Humidity is the biggest risk, so avoid damp areas and use a sealed box or case with desiccant if your environment is humid.
To preserve working condition, don’t just seal everything away forever: periodically exercise the camera and lenses. About once a month is a common suggestion—fire the shutter a few times and move mechanical parts such as aperture controls and focus/zoom rings.
Use body caps and lens caps (or rear caps/clear protective filters as preferred), and store the gear where it won’t be bumped and won’t face temperature extremes. A moisture-resistant hard case or sealed plastic container can help, especially with desiccant packs inside.
The key points are: remove batteries, control humidity, avoid heat and extreme temperatures, protect from dust and knocks, and occasionally operate the mechanisms so lubricants and moving parts don’t sit idle for years.
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