My camera doesnt want to open the lens..i cant use it anymore.

See http://www.fixya.com/support/r13011856-lens_error

This camera needs really strong batteries. Even if the batteries work great in other devices they might not work in this camera. Buy some FRESH (yes check the date and get the ones that will expire the latest) Alkaline Batteries and give it a try. Rechargeable (NiCad) batteries never worked for me. This is the very reason I got rid of my P92 (same camera with higher 5.1m pixel optics)

Blow compressed air in the gaps around the lens barrels with the idea of blowing out any sand or grit that may be in there jamming the lens. Other variations include blowing with a hair dryer in "no heat" setting, or sucking the gaps with a vacuum (careful with this one).
If these don't work, you'll need to contact the support section of the Casio website for their advice. Get an estimate for repairs....then decide if you want it fixed or replaced.

Replace or repair

Sorry, sand and cameras not mix. Buy a new camera.

This camera is probably damaged beyond economic repair - replace it.

Hello

The problem is that the lens has become stuck in the barrel. There are some DIY solutions you could try, but the probability is that you will have to get it fixed by a professional.

Use these at own risk as it may further damage the camera.

Firstly , try connecting your ac adapter or usb cable.

Try holding the shutter button while switching on the camera.

Look at the lens , and if some of the lens 'circles' is misaligned or not concentric then try wiggling it (while holding camera lens down).

Try gently pushing or pulling the lens when it extends but this is risky as it may cause the lens barrel to slip out of its guidance system.

Another way to do this is to place the camera lens down on a hard surface and then power it up. Be sure to use a soft cloth or something similar as to not scratch your lens or casing. Let the lens push the camera up and down a few times and sometimes the little resistance provided by the camera is enough to get things going again.

Try hitting your camera near the lens on the body with the soft tissue on the palm of your hand.

Other than that , I would take the camera to a repair center for a evaluation to see if it would cost more to repair than to replace the camera.

If it is still under warranty I would suggest you take it in before trying any of these steps and remove any off-brand batteries or accessories as some stores are really fussy about warranty repairs on camera's with non-brand accessories.

You can also have a look at THIS link.

Hope the advise is useful. please do not hesitate to let me know if you need any further assistance. Also, please be so kind to let me know if you found this helpful.

Regards
Andrea

The "E18" or "Lens" error message indicates an error that involves the lens unit or lens cover.
This error may appear where the lens is prevented from properly extending or retracting such as, for example, when pressure is applied to the lens or the area surrounding the lens while handling the camera. The error may also be displayed if the lens unit/camera has been subjected to an external shock, or if a foreign substance (i.e. liquid, sand, dirt) enters the camera. Solution
Check the following when you operate the camera to avoid applying pressure to the lens and surrounding area:

• Hold the camera so that your fingers do not touch the lens unit when you are shooting.
• Make sure the camera is off before the camera is placed back in the case. Exercise caution to ensure that the camera does not accidentally power on while the camera is stored inside the case.

If you cannot clear the error code by turning the camera off and then on again, or if the error code is displayed frequently, a camera malfunction may have occurred and might require service

does the shutter open ?

I now also have that problem- my L73 seems to have frozen with the lens open and wont do anything, i cant even turn it off - no idea what to do!! have tried charging it, but nothings happening anymore!
Can anyone advise me what to do?
Thanks