direct sunlight into video camera

A

Amos Kim

Active member
Just thought I'd ask this question for which I've been getting conflicting answers for: Will the sensors of a video camera be damaged or lifespan decreased if it is pointed at direct sunlight? Can a UV filter or internal ND filter protect it?

thanks for input
 
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A UV filter will provide no protection at all if you shoot directly into the sun. And it will take a LOT of ND. Not sure even ND would keep the camera from being damaged.

If you absolutely HAVE to do this, then here's what I'd do. First, get a decent sized, clean piece of plate glass. Shoot the sun reflected off the glass. Add as much ND as you can PLUS a polarizer filter (strictly for the additional light reduction.) If it's too dark, then carefully reduce the ND/polarizer in increments until you get a usable image. I DO NOT KNOW that this will keep your camera from being damaged. If I absolutely HAD to shoot directly at the sun, this is what I would try -- and I would pray a LOT.

Or just consider buying stock footage of a sun shot.
 
Stock footage, to be sure. I think chapel's idea is good but I agree that it's not a guarantee. Pray, and maybe sacrifice a sheep for good measure, if you're going to try it.
 
i think using a 35mm adapter protects the censor. at least i've shot directly at the sun with the adapter and no problems. even for long periods of time for a time lapse.
 
Can anybody confirm what MacB has just stated? If safe, that would be a convenient way to shoot with the sun.
 
I don't want to dispute Mac, but I can't see any way a 35mm adapter would protect the camera sensor. I'm sure it reduces the amount of light entering the camera, but not enough to risk it, in my opinion.

A lot depends on the shot. Sunrise or sunset are better than midday, because the sunlight is filtered through a lot more atmosphere and moisture. A shot where the sun is a fairly small part of the frame is better than a shot with the sun filling the frame.

If you're using an expensive camcorder, then take every possible precaution.
 
the reason i think it works is that the sunlight isn't hitting the sensor. it's being projected onto a piece of ground glass and the sensor is just seeing the ground glass. i wouldn't bet money on it but, like i said, i've done it in the past and not had a problem.
 
Adapter makers pride themselves on squeezing the maximum possible degree of light transmission through their products.

If someone advertises 'only 1.5 stops light loss,' well, subjecting the sensor to full-blast sunlight at 1.5 stop attenuation still sounds like a recipe for damage.
 
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