Hi All,

I discovered a big smudge on my lens today and am going to out and buy something to clean it with. Can I just go to any camera store and get some kind of lens cleaning kit like a still photographer would use, or is there something special just for video cameras or more specifically the XL1? Also can someone give me a quick explination of what a UV filter is and is it's only job to protect the lens. Also can I get one of these at ant old camera shop, and is there anything I should look for when buying one? Generally how much should one cost?

Thanks!

-SL

Any standard lens cleaning kit will do the job. Also get yourself a Lenspen. These are invaluable for cleanign dust and smudges from the glass during a shoot.

A UV filter is principally designed to reduce the ultraviolet band of light passing through the lens. In this regard, it's principal benefit is to film shooting since uv can put a bluish cast onto film images. For purposes of video the UV filter is principally used to protect the lens' front element. UV does not pose the problem to video shooters that it does to film. Prices will vary from $15 to $60+. Brands are the same as for most other filters: Tiffen, B+W, Heliopan, et.al. The most expensive generally are thinner and feature top-notch coatings, often on both sides.

Shop around and do some reasearch at online outlets such as B&H Photo (bhphoto.com). That's the best way to learn.

I too have discovered dust but inside the lens, I'm not too sure how to clean it other than to take the lens to Canon for a good clean.

Any other ideas more than welcome.

Thanks,
Shlooky

Do Not disassemble your lens. There is no user serviceable part inside. If the dust is showing on your images, send the unit to Canon for service. Most local service providers do not have the equipment to realign the lens once the assembly is removed for cleaning.

Jeff

Thanks Jeff for the quick responce, I do see only one white speckle on my footage, so I will take the camera back to Canon here in Toronto for service.

Thanks again.

Shlooky