Nasty specks of dirt

[thebigsky]

I've had my 5D for about 2 weeks, when looking through the viewfinder I can see 2 annoyingly large specks of dirt and a small hair (nice.)

These remain when changing lenses, so I know they're in the camera, however they don't reproduce in pictures that I take, must be the viewfinder I hear you cry, well I've cleaned it over and over and they steadfastly refuse to go away.

Where on earth are they in the camera?

[Shay Stephens]

I've had my 5D for about 2 weeks, when looking through the viewfinder I can see 2 annoyingly large specks of dirt and a small hair (nice.)

These remain when changing lenses, so I know they're in the camera, however they don't reproduce in pictures that I take, must be the viewfinder I hear you cry, well I've cleaned it over and over and they steadfastly refuse to go away.

Where on earth are they in the camera?

Remove the lens, and look up inside the camera. You should see the bottom of the prism area/focus screen. A blast of air there may clean up those klingons ;-)

If they put up a fight, well, use whatever force you deem necessary.

[thebigsky]

Thanks Shay, if they're on the mirror am I correct in thinking this won't affect any pictures taken?

[Shay Stephens]

Thanks Shay, if they're on the mirror am I correct in thinking this won't affect any pictures taken? Yes, if it's on the mirror, it won't show in the photos, but may be visible through the eye piece. Cleaning the mirror or the bottom of the prism may do it for you.

[wxwax]

Since going to the full frame, these specks are far more noticeable than before. I'm sure my 1.3 crop bodies have them too, but I never notice them. The 5D has a way of magnifying them.

[Iron Creek]

A very good friend had to send his 5D back to have it cleaned after he blasted it with air. According to the factory, that's the #1 cause for problems. I use a 1Ds and air has never been a concern, however since my wife got a 5d we've used other methods to clean hers. Do a goggle on "artic butterfly" we got one however had not seen a need to try it out yet.

[thebigsky]

Would it beyond the wit of camera manufacturers to design some kind of arrangement whereby when changing lenses an internal screen slides down or across to close off the internals whilst the lens is removed?

I've decided that whilst the specks remain on the mirror they're irritating but at least I know where they are and they don't affect the images. If I disturb them knowing my luck they'll end up on the sensor instead.