These emails come with the intent of helping you be a better photographer.

But if you're tired of hearing from me, unsubscribe.

And if you want more photography stuff to read, there's a place on the interwebs where past emails I wrote are stored.

You'll find 'em in the "Newsletter Hub."

Remember, I'd like to know what you want to know about photography.

So, if you have any questions, email me at sam@samdamico.com. 

And for what it's worth, when you send me an email unless someone's lookin' over my shoulder, I'm the only one who sees it.

It looks like the summer is gonna be filled with heat, and heat mixed with air conditionining gives us condensation.

The other day, a photographer I've been working with experienced camera and lens condensation.

And then, this morning, I got this notice: [AlertDC] Extreme Heat Alert for DC: Until Wednesday, 06/25 8AM. Will feel like 105F or hotter. Drink water. Stay cool. https://evb.gg/n#zuzppk2spri

I figured this'd be a good time to mention something about condensation.

It's common to get camera and lens condensation when moving from one temperature and humidity extreme to another, but the condensation can do some damage.

Here's Why Condensation Happens:

Condensation forms when warm, moist air contacts a cold surface, like a lens or camera body in an air-conditioned space.

Just like moisture condenses into water droplets on a cold drink glass outside on a hot summer day.

Camera and Lens Risks:

• Moisture can form inside lenses or the camera body (internal fogging/condensation), which can damage electronics and coatings and can take a long time to dry.
• Fogging of the sensor and viewfinder
• Without it being thoroughly dried out, the repeated occurrence of condensation can lead to fungus inside lenses.
• In older or non-weather-sealed gear, we risk corrosion.

Condensation Prevention:

1. Use a Sealed Plastic or Ziplock Bag

• We can put our camera and lenses in a ziplock or airtight plastic bag before moving from cold to warm.
• Before opening the bag, let it warm up indoors for at least 30–60 minutes because the condensation will form outside the bag instead of on our camera and lens.

2. Let the Gear Adjust Slowly

• When entering a new environment, leave it in a camera bag to warm up or cool down slowly.

3. Silica Gel or Desiccants Are Helpful

• We can use silica gel packs to absorb moisture when storing cameras and lenses and regularly replace the packs.

4. Avoid Changing Lenses in Humid Environments

Internal parts get exposed to humidity, which increases condensation risk when we change lenses.

5. Weather-Sealed Gear (if possible) Is An Option

While not condensation-immune, weather-sealed cameras and lenses help because they handle moisture better.

When Condensation Happens:

• To avoid short circuits, immediately shut off the camera.
• Don't wipe condensation inside lenses—instead, give lenses time to evaporate condensation on its own in a dry, warm room.
• To help speed drying, keeping our camera and lens sealed in a container with silica gel or dry rice will help.

The Photography Basics (Introduction To Photography) group classes starts soon.

If you'd like a personalized way to learn, there's always Private Photography Lessons made to fit your schedule and way of learning that'll cover the same material you'd get during the Introduction to Photography class.

Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need guidance on choosing the right course.

And remember, we learn and improve by doing, so practice making at least one picture daily.

The Photography Basics (Introduction To Photography) group classes starts soon or you can learn the same stuff as a series of Private Lessons.
  
More ways to study and practice photography with me are below.

Call me at (202) 531-2344 if you need help determining the best course for you.

—

A note about group class sizes: Did you know that some places that teach photography have up to 25 students in each class? 

Bigger ain't always better.

That's why I limit my group classes to no more than five participants because smaller classes make for better, more effective, and more efficient learning experiences.

But smaller classes also mean spots fill up quicker, so sign up soon. 

I'll help you be a better photographer—study and practice photography with me. 

Currently scheduled classes are below.

And what if the timing doesn't work for you in any of my scheduled group classes? Private in-person lessons suited to your schedule are always an option.