SX730 HS: Camera do not always open fully

[Davidsx730]

Purchased this camera quite a few years ago and love it!!

Sometimes the lens leaves do not fully open.  If I gently touch the unopened leaves, they will open immediately.  I tried cleaning the leaves using a very thin needle thinking that I could remove some dirt / dust that may be lodged between the leaves.  If I had a strong source of air, I would blow air between the leaves; but do not have this.

Any ideas how to clean the leaves?

[normadel]

Use a thin strip of paper to rub between the leaves and clean them.

A strong source of air is dangerous. The leaves are thin and can be warped/deformed.

Look and see if the front of the lens has any dents around the leaves . If so, try to flatten them out with a toothpick or similar.