lasers can damage digital sensors

[lynnb]

PetaPixel reports a number of digital sensors permanently damaged by concert lasers. The sensors in 5DIIs and REDs were being used for video, greatly increasing risk of exposure. Video shooters beware. However that doesn't mean you couldn't be the unlucky one getting your digital sensor fried at the wrong moment while taking photographs. If you know lasers are likely to be in use, it might be prudent to leave the digital at home and shoot film.

 

[JRminox]

No laser capable of causing damage to the human eye can be aimed to spectators by federal regulations. There is no way your camera sensor can be damaged by taking photos since it cannot be a direct laser hit. Furthermore the power needed to cause damage to a semiconductor is way beyond what is used in those displays.

 

[Contarama]

Every small flashlight or pen laser pointer device I have ever seen has a sticker on it that says do not point at eyes. Maybe someone will test one out and see what happens? Anyone with a sacrificial P&S? 🙂

 

[lynnb]

JRminox - did you look at the video on the linked article? The video was being shot from stage height or just above, and the damage clearly occurs after a laser strike on the sensor at the six second mark, as the camera pans across the stage and faces directly towards the laser during the pan. The laser is mounted on the stage.

It appears that the laser is directed above audience head height (I cannot see any people in the stands), but this is no protection for photographers who have access to camera positions above the crowd - which is just where a photographer would want to be situated - unfortunately, directly in the line of fire.