It’s been going on for years – lasers destroying CMOS sensors in cameras. I’m taking this opportunity to remind you that shooting at an event with lasers present can be a very bad idea.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWvrpoHry84&w=700&showinfo=0&rel=0]In these videos, a laser striking the lens of the camera (and ultimately, the sensor) results in a gray line of dead pixels across the camera’s image.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My0Y8of6sqo&w=700&showinfo=0&rel=0] [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZz-o95b2bI&w=700&showinfo=0&rel=0] [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nld3W9oeXqc&w=700&showinfo=0&rel=0]Vladimir over at Image Sensors World notes that he has been unable to find someone with a backside illuminated CMOS camera that has been harmed by lasers. He wonders if only front illuminated CMOS sensors are suspect to this type of damage.
Jared says
I wonder if it’s as risky when taking stills?
Dana L. Butler says
Risky….yes. Not as risky though. The timing would have to be perfect.
WAYNE SCHARF says
Seems like there is a use for film cameras after all…
forkboy1965 says
I never heard about this, but I’m glad you’ve mentioned it. Remind me not to point the cat’s laser pointer at my camera!