Advice on Cleaning Rebel T1i

[PMesritz]

Hey, all.

I have Rebel T1i. When looking through the viewfinder, I can see some minor dust particles. After taking the lens off, I believe that the dust / particles / whatever are on the lens at the top of the casing. Basically, when you look straight in, you see the mirror -- which is clean. Above that is the lens that appears to have the particles or whatever they are.

What is the best way to clean this if it is something that air doesn't blow off easily? I'm assuming that getting some sort of air pump is the first step, but what would be next?

- Philippe

[OsmosisStudios]

You're talking about the focusing screen, which is that piece of glass above the mirror in the camera body. You should be able to use a blower on it (like a Rocket Blower), but DONT use compressed air.

[inkista]

Rocketblower.

Keep in mind, though, that dust on the focus screen is merely annoying--it doesn't affect your pictures like dust on the sensor will. And whatever you do, do not physically touch the focus screen with anything. They're made of plastic and they scratch very very easily. If you do use a Rocketblower or other bulb blower, don't let the tip touch anything inside the camera. Some folks will tell you to keep it out of the chamber altogether.