Why is there a ring-shaped spot in my image after cleaning the lens?
Asked 4/7/2020
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I’m seeing a faint ring-shaped artifact in the same place across multiple frames, even though I’ve cleaned the lens and can’t see any obvious damage. I only have one lens, so I can’t easily compare whether the issue is coming from the lens or the camera body. What typically causes this kind of bright-rimmed circular mark, and what should I check or clean?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
6y ago
2 Answers
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Based on its shape and brightness profile (bright rim, dimmer center), and the fact it's in the same location on multiple frames, I believe this is a dust mote on the sensor.
If your camera has a removable lens, and you can lock the mirror up (assuming you have one) you can probably use an air bulb (I think of them as a negative blower, because I learned on film) to remove the dust -- recognizing, of course, the risk you'll just move it, or even allow more to settle there.
If that doesn't resolve the issue, there are sensor cleaning kits available from the larger photography stores online. READ AND FOLLOW the INSTRUCTIONS and also check with your cameras manufacturer (or at least instructions) to avoid possible damage to the sensor. The same rule applies as cleaning lenses: DON'T. If you absolutely must, do it as gently and carefully as possible. A damaged sensor is a trashed camera body...
Originally by user89902. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user89902
6y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A ring-shaped spot that stays in the same place from frame to frame is most likely dust or debris on the camera sensor, not on the front of the lens. The bright rim and dimmer center are typical of a dust mote showing up in the image.
If your camera has interchangeable lenses, inspect and clean the sensor area carefully. Start with a hand air blower to try to remove loose dust. Be aware this can sometimes just move the dust elsewhere or introduce more if done carelessly.
If blowing doesn’t fix it, use a proper sensor-cleaning kit or have the sensor cleaned professionally. Follow the camera manufacturer’s instructions closely, especially if your camera requires mirror lock-up or a specific cleaning mode. Sensor cleaning must be done carefully to avoid damage.
In short: if the mark is fixed in position and survives lens cleaning, the sensor is the first thing to suspect.
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