What Actually Works (and Doesn’t) to Stop Fungus Growth in Lenses. During an assignment in Costa Rica, I noticed tiny spots forming inside my lens. At first, I tried common “home remedies” I had read about online, but nothing worked effectively, and some methods even risked damaging the lens coating.

As a Costa Rica photographer, I realized that prevention is far more effective than trying to fix fungus after it appears. Using dry cabinets, silica packs, and ventilated storage became part of my routine, ensuring my lenses remained safe from moisture-related damage.

My advice? Don’t rely on myths. Based on my experience, doing photography in Costa Rica requires careful attention to storage and environmental conditions to protect your gear. Simple preventative steps save time, money, and frustration while allowing you to focus on capturing the rainforest’s beauty.