Most Effective Ways to Handle Lens Rooting and Mold Issues

Fungal mold and roots not only affect lens quality but early detection is crucial for swift resolution. Here are several types to be mindful of:

• Fungus O: Easily recognizable with large circular patches, it covers the lens with milky white spots that may shimmer in yellow-green, compromising color accuracy and sharpness.
• Mist Fungus: Prominent when the lens is covered in a misty layer, caused by prolonged high humidity preventing moisture from escaping, leading to the growth of various fungi.
• Root Fungus: External white root-like marks gradually corrode the inner layer of the lens, causing damage and rendering the lens unusable over time.

To avoid mistakes when cleaning your camera, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Do not store the camera in a damp place. If not used frequently, expose the lens to sunlight to prevent the growth and spread of roots and mold.
• When practicing with the camera, limit exposure to rain. Use a nylon and plastic camera bag that is waterproof and does not obstruct your view. It should have a convenient sleeve for easy access while shooting.
  
• Limit lens disassembly. When disassembling and assembling the lens, seal it tightly. Do not touch the lens surface directly, as it will make the lens blurry.
• Do not warm the camera with a damp cloth. You always want the lens to be scratch-free. Choose a soft cotton cloth, but humid weather can make the cloth absorb moisture strongly and create mold. So, the best solution is to replace the camera's padding instead of just using a wiping cloth.
  
• Dehumidify the camera in various ways to keep it dry, leaving no chance for harmful microorganisms to develop.

During usage, it's crucial to regularly check the condition of your lens attentively. If you sense issues with the image quality during photography, promptly inspect if the lens is encountering issues like roots or mold.

A common method people employ to clean lenses affected by mold is to take them to a reputable repair center to ensure the camera's safety. In case of mild mold on the lens, you can self-treat at home using a soft cotton cloth and specially designed water for lens cleaning, helping restore the lens to 80% of its original state. Note that you should avoid using compressed air sprays for lens cleaning.