OOPS! You Dropped Your Camera…

Not to worry, pick up your camera and assess the damage. Digital cameras have become quite resilient to falls, bangs and jolts; don’t panic unnecessarily.

If the camera is off, leave it off and look at all the corners and surfaces carefully. Are there pieces/screws missing? Gather up all the parts you can find. How about bent or bulging parts? Will they go back into place without too much effort? Gently shake to listen for “loose” objects. What is the status of the lens? Check the battery door and pull out the battery(s); make sure the battery isn’t leaking. Next check the memory card. Some camera models have a separate door for this and some are paired with the battery compartment, in either case get it out. No need to risk losing the pictures you did get from electrical shorts or corrosive liquids; plus you definitely don’t want to send it in for repair with the card in it.

Jammed lenses and bent parts are some of the common things that can happen that seem easy enough and might tempt you to try fixing it yourself. You take a risk by doing that because you may end up damaging your camera further. Another thing to consider is the need for adjusting components, especially the lens, and the possible corruption to parts. Those may be about to give out from continued use and has the potential of breaking other components in the unit.

You can also take steps to minimize the risk of damage to your camera. While not in use, in transit, or in storage you should always keep it in a padded, protective camera bag and away from areas where it can be harmed.  While using your camera the first line of defense is to ALWAYS use your camera strap. Manufacturers are producing lighter weight and increasingly tougher cameras; they are, however, never completely resistant to serious trauma. In many and the most notable cases the lens unfortunately takes the brunt of the impact. If you have a DSLR or a camera capable of attaching filters, it is for that very reason it is necessary to keep a multi-coated UV filter on at all times for a good measure of protection. As a precaution, it’s a good idea to have your camera checked and evaluated by an authorized repair service facility that will be able to assess internal damages as well.