Not all lens covers for digital and film SLR cameras are created equal. A camera lens cover protector is designed with the intention to shield and protect professional cameras and lenses from adverse weather such as wind, rain, salty air and sand; it can be considered a rain coat for cameras and lenses. Camera lens covers are also called caps and attach directly to the lens.
In your search for the proper lens cover for professional camera use, keep the following in mind:
1. Know the brand, model and manufactured year of your camera and camera lens.
2. Be able to identify the type of camera lens you have and know if it is generic and interchangeable, or if it is specific to your type of camera.
3. If you have multiple lenses of the same size, i.e. wide angle, you can't assume one lens cover is interchangeable with each lens.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Seek the perfect cover for camera lens protection
Without a doubt, the best camera lens cover will be the one direct from the manufacturer of your lens and/or camera since it is designed for that purpose. Your camera and lens may come with a warranty, but don't rely on that for damage caused by not having a camera lens cover.
I recommend: B&H Photo carries lens covers for most major brands, including Canon, Nikon, Leica, Pentax, Olympus, and Samsung. An array of lens covers can be found at
J&R.
Robin Kanta offers numerous front and rear rubber, snap, metal and other types of lens caps in a variety of sizes.
Save money and shop for discounted lens and camera covers
Lens caps are plastic or metal discs that can clip on to the front of a lens or slip over the back of lens when the lens is removed from the camera. They should never be overly expensive, but finding quality for a discounted price can be preferable when on a tight budget.
I recommend: Camera and lens rain and snow covers can be found at
Adorama.
Lenscaps.com offers many generic lens covers and cap holders at very reasonable prices.
Seek expert advice on camera lens covers and cases for your specific needs
Network with people with a similar photography interest and find the appropriate covers and cases. Explore online communities which offer you the opportunity to meet people worldwide who have a broad range of experience and who can make recommendations when you have questions. Shop sites that specialize in lens covers and cases for specific and hard-to-find cameras and lenses.
I recommend: Jump into the listings at
Pro Camera Gear and find a digital camera lens cover for your specific camera lens. The photography classifieds at
Shutterbug.net have equipment listings that include lens covers for cameras.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- You can find a camera with an automatic lens cover. Digital camera technology offers some cameras with automated lens covers but the offset to the convenience of the technology is the need to handle the camera with care due to the fragility of the automation.
- Filters are also camera lens cover protectors and as a bonus they can create special effects for your images.
The official source of Camera Lens Covers is the Camera Lens Covers page at Business.com
Featured Vendors
GlobalSpec.com: Camera Lenses & FiltersDatabase of suppliers for camera lenses & filters, including cylindrical, fresnel, GRIN, and spherical. Browse catalogs and contact suppliers.
www.globalspec.com