Dust spots appear in every photo

Symptoms

• Small dark blotches or spots visible especially in bright skies or plain backgrounds
• Spots appear in the same location across different lenses
• More visible at narrow apertures like f/16 or higher
• Spots not visible when looking directly at the lens

Likely causes

• CommonDust settled on the image sensor during a lens changeSensors can attract dust when the lens is off, even briefly.
• CommonCamera used in a dusty or sandy environmentWindy or dusty conditions increase the chance of sensor contamination.
• PossibleSensor cleaning function not run recentlyMany cameras have a built-in vibration cleaning feature that should be used periodically.
• PossibleOil or moisture residue on the sensor, not just dry dustRequires wet cleaning rather than just air or vibration cleaning.
• Less commonDust inside the lens itself rather than on the sensorUsually looks different and doesn't move position when changing lenses.

What to do

1. Confirm the spots appear at the same position across different lenses, which points to the sensor rather than a specific lens.
2. Run the camera's built-in sensor cleaning or vibration dust removal feature from the menu.
3. Change lenses in a clean, wind-free area, and point the camera body downward briefly during lens swaps to reduce dust settling.
4. Use a manual air blower (never canned air) on the sensor if your camera allows manual sensor access, following the manual's exact instructions.
5. Take a test photo of a plain white surface out of focus at a narrow aperture to check if spots are reduced after cleaning.
6. Avoid touching the sensor directly or using anything abrasive.
7. If dust spots remain after the built-in cleaning cycle, a professional sensor cleaning service can safely remove stubborn dust or residue.

Tools and parts

• Manual air blower (sensor-safe, no canned air)

When to call a pro

If dust spots remain after the built-in cleaning cycle, a professional sensor cleaning service can safely remove stubborn dust or residue.

Safety