Dust Proofing your Canon GL-1

Shooting in dusty conditions can destroy your camera unless you take the proper precautions to safeguard the internal workings of the camera from dust.

I shoot Motocross video, and when I tell you that it's dusty on a motocross track, I'm just scratching the surface. Oklahoma in the 30's was less dusty than a Motocross track on any Sunday today.

Having made a sizable investment in the CANON GL-1, I wanted to insure that the camera would last longer than a Pro Moto, and that my video would remain clean and drop out free (Most Drop Outs are caused by DUST, and not faulty Tape!).

The CANON GL-1 DV Camera is particularly prone to damage from dusty conditions Due to the many openings present on the camera.

The following photos and text will describe the method that I use to keep the CANON GL-1 internals free from dust and dirt when shooting in less than optimal conditions.

Tape all Dust Entry Points

Tape access door needs to be completely taped ( tape on seam where door opens)

The Video Screen and VCR Controls need to be protected as well Make sure that the hinge point on the video screen is taped over

VCR Controls completely taped

Simple and inexpensive items will protect your GL-1 from the worst conditions

Finally, if you really need to have the maximum protection, a nylon Rain Slicker/Dust Cover will provide it. Theis cover is a Kata which runs around $100.00 and will keep the camera dry and dust free ( remember to still tape the camera as described above).

If you need more protection than that, consider an underwater housing for the GL-1