Is a camera safe at the beach?

[LisaR]

I know nothing about cameras and photography but my son is enjoying the hobby. We live 5 miles from the ocean where we walk on a regular basis. DS has asked to take his camera but I am nervous about that. He won't get it wet but will the sand or salt air do anything to it? It is a Nikon 5000 if it matters. Thanks!

 

[mom2rtk]

I can't resist being in such a gorgeous place without my best camera. So I take my DSLR. That said though, you have to be really careful. Don't change lenses on the beach. If you need to put it down, go back to the car and put it down. I just can't imagine being able to put a bag down anywhere that it won't get sand on (and therefore in) it.

 

[Shutterbug]

Echo the above sentiment. Hate to go to a scenic place and not take photos. Also dont take it on an extremely windy day where sand can actually be blowing around in the air.

 

[LisaR]

Thanks! He would never set it down because the sole purpose of our trips is for exercise. When walking with me, there is no stopping!

Maybe I will let him try it next week since it looks like rain the next few days. It is hard to tell how windy it will be. It can be fairly calm here and it will be whipping around like crazy when we get beach side. I can make him bring his backpack bag and if it is too bad as we are walking, he can put it away. I'd hate to lug that thing while walking but he walks all over with that bag so he shouldn't mind.

 

[alloyd1170]

Stuff a plastic grocery bag in your pocket for those "just-in-case" moments. If the wind kicks up or it starts to rain, just pop it over your camera and tie a knot in it. You can even carry it with the bag wrapped around it, and then when you're ready to shoot, take it out.

For better protection, they do make waterproof bags in different sizes. You put your camera in, roll the top down, and close the clips. I used one for Zodiac rides in the Galapagos as salt water will fry electronics in a heartbeat. I think it's Sea to Summit that makes them and they are lightweight. Camping and boating stores should carry them (I've seen them at West Marine, Sportsman's Warehouse, Dicks). They come in different colors depending on the capacity. Amazon probably has them too.

 

[photo_chick]

I take mine. Just use common sense and you should be fine with it there. And having your equipment insured never hurts just in case.

 

[zackiedawg]

I live in a beach town, and travel a lot to the Caribbean - no worries as long as you just take some simple precautions. You can even go so far as to change lenses and such - but just be aware of blowing sand or spray, keep the camera sheltered by your body away from the wind when changing, keep it in a bag if possible when just transporting, don't put it down uncovered on the sand or a blanket, and give it a gentle wipedown when you get home to remove any salt residue.