16ChJpDeFrEsItCkEnLens Care•Clean the lens surface with a blower brush. To remove dirt and smudges, use asoft, clean cotton cloth or lens tissue moistened with ethanol (alcohol) or lenscleaner. Wipe in a circular motion from center to outer edge, taking care not toleave traces or touch other parts.•Never use thinner or benzene to clean the lens as this might damage the lens,result in a fire, or cause health problems.•To protect the front lens element, an NC filter is recommended at all times. Alens hood also helps protect the front of the lens.•When storing the lens in the lens case, attach both front and rear caps.•When the lens will not be used for a long time, store it in a cool, dry place toprevent mold. Also store the lens away from direct sunlight or chemicals suchas camphor or naphthalene.•Do not get water on the lens or drop it in water as this will cause it to rust andmalfunction.•Reinforced plastic is used for some parts of the lens. To avoid damage, neverleave the lens in an excessively hot place.•Never use an air blower to clean the inside rear portion of thelens. Because the diaphragm blades are exposed, they may be damaged by astrong burst of air. Also be sure to attach the rear lens cap when thelens is not in use to protect the lens and diaphragm blades from foreignmatter and fingerprints.When holding your camera by its handgrip and rotating the camera inits tripod collar, your hand may bump into the tripod, depending on thetripod in use.Lens HoodPull out the lens hood by rotating it slowly until the click-stop position isreleased and the hood moves smoothly. Then, turn it counterclockwise (asviewed from the front) to secure it in the extended position. Because the lenshood is not detachable, slide it back to its click-stop position when not in use.Never lift the lens by its hood. This may cause the lens to drop, due to itsown weight, and become damaged, if it hits something hard.