What a full service covers
A full service begins with a visual inspection of the body exterior, all seals, and the mount. Tim then checks the sensor for dust and contamination, the mirror box and focusing screen for debris, and all external controls for play or stiffness. The shutter is fired across its full speed range and the timing is checked against a reference to confirm it is within specification. Battery contacts, card slot contacts, and the lens mount contacts are cleaned and inspected for corrosion. Autofocus calibration is verified, and where the body supports body-side AF fine-tune, Tim can set a recommended offset.
Lubrication and mechanical check
Moving parts inside the camera, including the mirror mechanism, aperture coupling lever, and shutter charge gear train, rely on lubricant that can migrate or dry over time. As part of a full service Tim inspects and, where needed, re-lubricates these mechanisms using the appropriate grease grades. Stiff or sluggish film-era controls on older manual bodies also benefit from this process.
When to book a service
Regular shooters, particularly those who work in dust, salt air, or variable weather conditions, benefit from a service every two to three years or after any particularly harsh job. A service before a long trip or a significant commission gives you confidence that the camera will behave predictably when it matters. Bring the body and any lenses you rely on most; Tim can include a lens clean in the same visit.