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Condensation & digital cameras
Avoid getting your digital camera wet. If you're going to the beach or expect it to rain, carry along some plastic ziplock bags to place your camera in and to protect it from the elements.
Damage to a the lens and other digital camera parts can be caused by prolonged moisture and humidity. This should be even more of a concern when a camera is stored and won't be used for a long time.
In spite of your best efforts, if condensation forms on your digital camera, remove the batteries and memory card. Wait about an hour or until moisture is no longer present. If this is not enough, store your camera with silica gel.
Silica gel
Silica gel acts as a shield of dry air in an enclosed storage area such as a camera bag. It is a blue colored "desiccant" that adsorbs moisture and condensation. The color changes to white or pink when the gel has absorbed the maximum amount of moisture.
When silica gel has absorbed the maximum amount of moisture, it can be reused after drying it out. The gel is "regenerated" by placing it in the sun or heating in a microwave or conventional oven.
Silica gel can be purchased in packets, canisters and cartons. Keep a few bags of silica gel in your camera bag and each time you store it. The more equipment you have, the more bags or canisters you should pack when storing it.
A word of caution: if you drop your digital camera in the water, it may be damaged beyond repair. Contact your camera manufacturer immediately for advice.
