Do Lasers Damage Cameras?

Lasers are intense beams of focused light, and camera sensors are designed to detect even the most subtle differences in light. When a laser beam shines across a camera sensor, it will absolutely cause irreparable damage. This risk is particularly high with mirrorless cameras.

It might seem overly cautious for your photographer or videographer to request that DJs or venues avoid using lasers, but the reality is that modern cameras are more susceptible to laser damage than older models. In recent years, DSLRs used mirrors in front of their sensors, allowing photographers to view images through the eyepiece. The mirror would move out of the way when taking a photo, exposing the sensor only briefly.

Modern cameras, however, are now primarily mirrorless. These cameras have sensors exposed at all times, providing a live digital view through the viewfinder instead of a reflection through mirrors. While this offers a more accurate representation of the final image, it also means the sensor is always exposed, making it more vulnerable to laser damage.

Photographers often carry insurance for their equipment, but insurance doesn’t cover the full extent of the loss. Think of it like buying a new car and having it totaled after one or two years and 10 or 20,000 miles. Even if you have insurance, finding an immediate replacement and covering the depreciation can be costly.

Photographers have encountered vendors, such as "dance floor robots" or DJs, who doubt the legitimacy of this concern and continue to use lasers despite being asked not to. In these cases, photographers should consider ending coverage and discussing the issue with the event organizers. It's important to explain the concern politely and assure that coverage will resume once lasers are no longer in use.

When asking other vendors to avoid using lasers, it’s crucial to be polite rather than demanding. Most vendors will understand your concern and will disable or refrain from using lasers. Including a clause about lasers in photography contracts can help mitigate this risk. If the issue isn't mentioned contractually, it doesn’t mean you have to take the risk unexpectedly, but it's helpful to reference your contract when discussing it before the event.

In some cases, arrangements can be made for high-end events where the hiring party accepts all laser-related risks and agrees to replace damaged equipment at replacement value. If photographing or recording with lasers is unavoidable, position yourself with your back to the laser sources and stand in places where reflections are less likely to occur. By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage. The biggest danger is the lack of education on this issue and the unknown risks lasers pose to photography equipment.

Same lenses have special coatings that will help with lasers, however this is not something that can be relied upon as it will not protect with absolute certainty. Another common place lasers might unexpectedly be used is on limo or party buses, these buses may also have mirrors that will reflect lasers unexpectedly.