Can a digital camera go blind?

Question

Everybody knows if you stare at the sun you'll go blind. Can the same thing happen to a digital camera or camcorder? Is it safe (for the camera) to take a picture of the sun or an eclipse or not?

Answer 1

no, a digital camera can not go blind unless the sensor is being broken.

I don't think exposing a CCD sensor would make the camera broke - well if it's only for a while anyway. However you'll get nothing out of it so what's the point?

What I do know is, some SLR camera shouldn't point to the sun for long especially with the mirror up because the shutter is a delicate piece of equipment and it might broke because of the heat.

Answer 2

Obviously if you point your camera directly at the sun for long periods of time it can harm it. You should never view an eclipse directly or just stare at the sun. Since I've seen hundreds of photographs of eclipses its safe to say you can photograph one. Visit eclipsechaser.com for how-to articles.

If you want photos of the sun as it sets use your minimum aperture (f16, 22, whatever) at ISO 100 and let the camera set the shutter speed. If that exceeds your fastest shutter speed set the ISO to 50 or use a Neutral Density filter. Set focus at infinity, compose and shoot.

Answer 3

The problem at looking directly at the sun is that it burns your retna. If your camera does not have any filters, then it is like sunbathing without any SPF lotion to protect yourself. So the image will not take, but will not the camera itself. But do not place it in sun for a long time as Heat and electronic do not go well together

Answer 4

It is certainly true. Something will melt. It is the same principle as burning leaves with a magnifying glass. Scary stuff. Even with some special filters I would be too superstitious to point a camera at the sun, mainly because of my eyes.

Answer 5

YES, A DIGITAL CAMERA GO BLIND WHEN IT STARES AT SUNLIGHT BECAUSE IT CAN'T TAKE A PICTURE WHEN IT'S DIRECT TO SUNLIGHT.

Answer 6

sure you can