Changing lenses

P

parkmoy

Messages
708
Name
David
Edit My Images
Yes
Should the camera always be switched off when changing lenses? Will it harm anything if it's left on?
 
Also if you have a lens with image stablisation it is advisable to turn it off when taking the lens off the camera.Or putting it on.
 
In the heat of the moment I've changed lenses with the camera turned on, I've had nothing untoward happen, but of course I don't know if it's attracting more dust than usual. So if you do it accidentally leave the camera on it's not the end of the world, but I woudn't recommend it.

The camera knows when you've removed the lens however, indeed it knows what you're doing before the lens is physically removed because the lens contacts which give the camera data about the lens disengage before the lens can actually be removed, so I'd be surprised if the sensor is still activated at that stage. However I of course stand to be corrected.

Indeed, on the broader topic, isn't the sensor only charged when it's being used, ie at the moment of taking a photo or live view? I know Nikon don't like the sensor being activated for long periods due to heat build up, I think 5 minutes is the limit. The sensor itself isn't used for focusing and metering outside live view.
 
Jack Flash said:
Also if you have a lens with image stablisation it is advisable to turn it off when taking the lens off the camera.Or putting it on.
Click to expand...

This is true, to ensure the VR lens elements are in their "parked" position. However you'd have to be quick to take the lens off when VR is active, VR disengages after about a second if you're not pressing the shutter button. I suppose you could have the same problem simply turning off the camera when VR is active as well.

Note I'm just musing here, not advocating anything other than best practice! :)
 
I'm always swapping lenses with the camera on. Facing down, facing up. I've yet to get any dust on my sensor or damage the camera. I do turn my back to the wind though and wouldn't swap lenses in a dusty environment.
 
fabs said:
From my understanding, because the sensor is charged whilst the camera is on, there's a lot more chance of sucking n a load of dust.
Click to expand...
But the shutter is closed. Best thing it to point the lens down to the floor so any dust around the lens mount will fall away from the camera
 
Chaz Photos said:
fabs said:
From my understanding, because the sensor is charged whilst the camera is on, there's a lot more chance of sucking n a load of dust.
Click to expand...
But the shutter is closed. Best thing it to point the lens down to the floor so any dust around the lens mount will fall away from the camera
Click to expand...

Just to add, a CCD would be charged while on but a CMOS wouldn't be. If the shutter is closed and the mirror is down, I would say there is little to worry about.
 
TBH i hadn't heard about turning off the camera while changing lenses. you learn something new everyday. and ill have to remember about the IS too
 
Chaz Photos said:
But the shutter is closed. Best thing it to point the lens down to the floor so any dust around the lens mount will fall away from the camera
Click to expand...

mustanir said:
Just to add, a CCD would be charged while on but a CMOS wouldn't be. If the shutter is closed and the mirror is down, I would say there is little to worry about.
Click to expand...

Just saying what I'd heard. As it happens I've accidently left my camera (cmos) on whilst changing lenses many tomes and never had any problems. ;)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top