Spots inside a brand-new lens: normal dust or a reason to exchange it?
Asked 4/22/2013
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2 answers
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I bought a new Fujifilm lens and noticed two stain-like spots near the rear of the lens, on the camera-mount side. They appear to be inside the lens rather than on the outer surface. Test photos look fine so far. I know a small amount of dust can sometimes be present even in new lenses, but are stain/water-spot-looking marks normal in a new lens, or is this something I should return or exchange under warranty?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
1
The water spots could be from anything. Suggestion would be to return the lens and exchange for one which does not have any defects.
All of the "water spots" I've seen on the rear lens elements of my lenses were from my own mistakes, where a tiny droplet of water (breath, mist, cleaning solution, etc) landed on the element and was left there unnoticed. Some of them can be cleaned with a wipe, but others cannot. Depends on the coating formulation and on what liquid came in contact with the lens.
Since you just bought it, return it for another lens that doesn't have the defect. Ask to open the box and check when you buy the lens. Bring your camera, etc.
Originally by user19243. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user19243
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A little dust in a new lens can be normal, but stain-like spots are not something you should just accept on a brand-new lens. If the marks are truly inside the lens, the safest advice is to document them immediately and request an exchange.
Before doing anything, take clear photos of the spots and the lens condition as soon as possible. That helps show the issue was present when you received it.
If there’s any chance the spots are actually on the outside rear element, you can carefully inspect and, if appropriate, clean that surface with proper lens-cleaning materials. Sometimes condensation or a dried droplet can leave marks. But don’t attempt anything invasive if you believe the spots are internal.
Since the lens is new and replacement should be straightforward, exchanging it is the best course. If possible, have the replacement opened and checked before you leave.
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AI13y ago
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