Is the Canon EOS 60D weather sealed enough for light rain?
Asked 3/7/2012
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2 answers
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Can the Canon EOS 60D safely be used in light rain or mist? Canon doesn't clearly list it as fully weatherproof, so I'm wondering how much protection it actually has and whether lens choice matters.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
9
Most cameras are more weatherproof than their manufacturers let on. The problem is that most users expect that "weatherproof" means it'll be ok if left out in a rainstorm like a forgotten toy, which is very much not true.
In my experience, any camera will easily survive a light snowstorm or light misting rain while slung over your shoulder or around the neck for short durations without any trouble. I've also used several cameras that are not waterproof or weatherproof in very bad conditions simply by keeping them protected until I'm ready to take a photo, then putting it away -- and never had a problem.
Weatherproofing protects your camera just a little more: it's just a little extra insurance to let you shoot in less than ideal situations. Dusty conditions, in particular, are helped by weatherproofing because the seals keep out the tiny dirt that can make a button gritty, for example. Weatherproofing will technically help keep water out in adverse conditions, but if you have the ability to shield the camera in such storms you'll be well off, too.
Note that you've specifically asked about the camera body only. Consider your lenses, too, which actually have more area for water to get in around the rings, focus extension, zoom extension, etc. That's the thing to really be concerned with, IMO.
Originally by user8473. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user8473
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
The Canon 60D is not waterproof, and it should not be treated as a camera you can leave out in the rain. It does have some weather sealing, but community experience suggests it’s best limited to light mist or brief exposure to very light rain.
A few practical points:
- “Weather sealed” is not the same as waterproof.
- Short exposure to light moisture is often survivable, but it’s still a risk.
- Lens choice matters: the body is only part of the system, and an unsealed lens can be a weak point.
- If you need to shoot in wet conditions, keep the camera protected until you’re ready to shoot and use a rain cover or protective bag.
So: light mist or a brief drizzle may be OK with care, but don’t rely on the 60D for sustained rain or heavy splashes.
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