Whether you’re shooting the black sands of Piha or a wedding in the Matakana vineyards, your camera is a precision instrument. In 2026, while cameras have become more weather-sealed, the move toward Mirrorless systems means your imaging sensor is often exposed every time you change a lens.
To prolong the life of your gear and avoid costly shutter or sensor replacements, follow these maintenance tips from the Advanced Computers repair team.
1. Managing Auckland’s Humidity
Humidity is a silent killer. In Auckland, moisture can lead to fungus growth inside lens elements, which permanently ruins the glass.
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The Tip: Never store your camera in a damp cupboard. If you’ve been shooting in the rain, dry the exterior thoroughly before putting it away.
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Pro Advice: Invest in a “Dry Box” or at least a sealed airtight container with silica gel packets to keep the relative humidity around 40–50%.
2. The Danger of DIY Sensor Cleaning
If you see dark spots on your images, your sensor has dust. While “air blowers” are fine, we strongly advise against using “sensor brushes” or “wet swabs” yourself.
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The Risk: Modern sensors have ultra-thin coatings and stabilisation units (IBIS) that are easily damaged by pressure.
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The Fix: If a simple puff of air doesn’t clear the spots, bring it into our North Shore or Penrose branches. We provide professional CMOS/CCD sensor cleans in a controlled environment.
3. Lens Caps and UV Filters
A lens cap is your first line of defence, but a UV Filter is your “insurance policy.”
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The Tip: It is much cheaper to replace a scratched $50 filter than a $2,000 lens element.
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Hoods: Always use your lens hood. Not only does it stop flare, but it acts as a “crumple zone” if you accidentally bump your camera against a hard surface.
4. Avoiding Thermal Shock
Auckland mornings can be crisp, while our afternoons (or car boots) can be sweltering.
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The Tip: Never leave your camera gear in a hot car; the heat can degrade the lubricants in the lens and the adhesives holding the grip together.
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Cold to Warm: If you’ve been shooting in a cold environment, let the camera warm up slowly inside its bag to prevent internal condensation on the electronics.
5. Battery and Card Slot Care
Corrosion can happen in the battery compartment if a camera is left sitting for months.
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The Habit: If you aren’t using your camera for more than a few weeks, remove the battery. Also, check your SD/CFExpress card slots for dust; never force a card in, as bent pins are a common (but avoidable) repair we see at the bench.
6. Firmware: The Digital Tune-up
In 2026, camera manufacturers release frequent firmware updates that improve autofocus speed and battery management.
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The Tip: Regularly check the manufacturer’s website. If the update process seems daunting, our team can handle the firmware flashing for you as part of a general service.
Professional Camera Servicing in Auckland
Is your lens not zooming? Is your flash failing, or did you suffer a liquid spill at the beach? Advanced Computers provides expert servicing for Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, and more.
Our camera repair services include:
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Professional Sensor Cleaning (Same-day service often available).
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Cracked Screen & Port Replacements.
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Lens Calibration and Impact Damage Repair.
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Liquid and Sand Intrusion Cleaning.
Visit us for a free quote:
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North Shore: 7C Triton Drive, Rosedale
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Penrose: 67 Station Road, Auckland
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Call: 0800 622 349