Last updated on December 7th, 2023
Do DSLR cameras need servicing? This is a question that many photographers have asked themselves at one point or another. The answer may confuse you, so we decided to research and provide some information on how often you should service your camera.
What is DSLR camera servicing?
When you service your DSLR camera, any part of the inner workings of the outer exterior of the camera is being examined and repaired. This includes cleaning all parts from dust and debris and checking for other issues such as scratches on the body itself.
Some people believe that they can clean their equipment at home. But, if you have no experience, we recommend taking it to a professional for servicing.
How often should you have your DSLR serviced?
The answer to this question is quite simple, but it can vary depending on your equipment. Generally speaking, you should have your DSLR camera serviced once per year or at least every other year.
So if you are shooting once a week, then it would be best to wait until the end of each season before having any servicing done as long as nothing has gone wrong.
Fix camera body issues right away
If there are issues with the body itself, such as cracks in the exterior, scratches, etc., these will need to be fixed immediately. You don’t want them to get worse over time and cause further damage.
Why do I need to have my DSLR serviced?
There are several reasons you should have your DSLR serviced regardless of the brand:
Longer camera lifespan
The first reason is that it prolongs the life of your equipment and prevents any further damage from occurring over time.
As stated above, having servicing done at least every other year or once per season will help. It will ensure everything remains intact and still works properly without any issues.
Get details on all camera equipment issues
By having your DSLR serviced, you will receive a detailed report of any damage or other equipment problems. Then, you can address these problems appropriately.
Make sure your camera functions well
When you take your camera in for servicing, it lets the makers check it over and ensure that everything is working correctly. You may have cleaned your DSLR camera yourself. Or maybe, you believe that nothing has gone wrong. This does not mean there are no other issues with the equipment.
Signs that indicate it’s time for a service on your DSLR camera
While you may not think that there are any issues with your DSLR camera, the truth is something could be wrong, and it’s time for a service.
Some of these signs to look out for include:
- Blurry pictures
- Black spots on the image or video
- Problems changing lenses or settings
- Anything else where damage is visible
You dropped your DLSR camera
Have you been dropping your DSLR camera a lot? Or has it fallen several times in the past without any issues? This can lead to further damage that servicing will address.
Your camera shows marks and scratches
Another sign that you may need a service for your DSLR camera is noticeable scratches anywhere on the exterior of the body.
You changed your lens, or there’s a deeper issue
In some cases, this can be caused by simply changing lenses. Other times, it could show a deeper problem with the camera that needs to be assessed and fixed before anything worse occurs.
Costs of different services, including a cost estimate for one year of maintenance
While some DSLR cameras may require more expensive services, their price is not always indicative of how much they cost.
Standard camera service cost
A standard service on a Nikon or Canon camera, for example, will only set you back around $50 to $60. But some costs can be as high as several hundred dollars if there are any deeper problems with the body that you should address.
A standard service on your DSLR camera includes cleaning the exterior and checking for any other equipment issues. But there is no guarantee you will not have anything else wrong with it after the service is over.
Detailed camera inspection cost
If you are looking for a more thorough inspection, it can cost $200 to $300, depending on the brand of your camera.
Multiple camera service cost
You can take in multiple DSLR cameras to be serviced at once. Then, there is usually a discount that will apply, which helps keep costs ($50 to $60 per camera) down. You should never feel as though one or more services are not worth having done.
The benefits of having your camera serviced regularly
Having your DSLR camera serviced every few years may seem like a lot. However, it can end up saving you money and time trying to do this work yourself or on the side. Having professionals complete these services ensures you’re not overlooking addressing serious camera problems.
Have professionals inspect and diagnose camera problems
Servicing can help identify any other problems that might be hiding under the surface of your DSLR camera. Many of which you may not have been aware of before. This ensures you can address and fix these issues, so there is no further damage to the equipment.
Cost benefits of DSLR servicing
One thing people often overlook when considering how much it will cost to have their DSLR camera serviced:
How much money they may end up losing if the equipment gets worse or stops working altogether. The longer you wait, the more costly this could become for you. which means servicing your camera every few years makes sense to save both time and money long term rather than trying to do it yourself.
Can you service your DSLR camera yourself?
You can do simple procedures on your own, like cleaning your lenses or cleaning your camera sensor. Some professionals have the training to undertake essential repairs themselves.
However, you may want a thorough inspection of your camera and any deep cleaning done. It’s best to take this work to a professional, as not doing so can lead to further damage that might cost more money in the long run.
Conclusion
You should now have a better idea of whether your DSLR camera needs servicing and the benefits of having it done. You may decide to do so yourself. Or, you might take your equipment in for professionals to complete these services.
It would help if you remembered that keeping up with this maintenance is an essential part of owning a professional-grade camera. It ensures you can continue using your DSLR for many years.
