What’s Your Preference?

endoplatypus · #1 (**permalink**) 11-02-2011, 06:57 AM

Hello all, I was looking for a a bit of help. I'm using a Nikon D80 camera with a Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm lens, and I have been seeing an odd 'streak' or ghost type thing appear in almost all of my shots. It is always exactly the same shape and in exactly the same place in the frame. Please see attachments 1 and 2 for examples, and example 3 is one example where it is not visible.

I am only a novice photographer and have virtually no troubleshooting experience like this. Just looking for ideas on what you think may be causing it... the lens, something inside the camera etc. I dont have any other lenses available to test right now either =(. Thanks for any ideas!

Bruce A · #2 (**permalink**) 11-02-2011, 07:29 AM

Have you taken the lens off and looked through at the widest aperture in good light .It could be the sensor - take it to a camera shop and get expertly cleaned if it's not the lens or filter (if you have one).

Nicole · #3 (**permalink**) 11-02-2011, 07:30 AM

Odds are, you need to clean your sensor or get it cleaned at your camera shop. Basically what you're seeing is a piece of dust that's on your sensor. You could try blowing it off with one of the blower things (make sure you point your camera downwards), just make sure you use one made for cameras and do not used canned air (there was someone on the forums a while back that had a disaster with that). But try a blower first and if that doesn't work, consider getting your sensor cleaned.

andyw · #4 (**permalink**) 11-02-2011, 09:59 AM

It is dust/dirt on your sensor.
You can clean it yourself - but be very careful, or get it down at a decent camera store.

SwissJon · #5 (**permalink**) 11-02-2011, 12:47 PM

One little pointer.. Don't clean your sensor in a dusty environment.. You'll make it worse, not better.. I know it sounds like an obvious thing, but most homes, where there are pets especially, are not suitable for sensor cleaning.