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Archive 2012 · Safe "Bulb" exposures--how long is too long?

jake40509
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p.1 #1 · Safe "Bulb" exposures--how long is too long?

So, I've heard that with DSLRs (D700 to be exact), it's possible to overheat the sensor if you keep the shutter open for too long.

• Is this true?
• If so, what is the maximum safe time I could leave the shutter open without damaging the camera? (Astro-photography is what I have in mind).

Thanks for the help!
Jake

Feb 20, 2012 at 02:22 AM

Monito
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p.1 #2 · Safe "Bulb" exposures--how long is too long?

Electronics system heat does affect sensors while the image is being recorded. Some DSLRs will reveal purple glows at one corner of the image.

You can strap a frozen gel pack to the back of the camera to cool it down before the exposure and during.

You can run the automatic dark exposure which will reduce some of that noise.

You can make multiple shots, like ten seconds each and stack a couple hundred of them together. Astrophotography sites will have more detail.

Long exposures will not damage the camera.

Feb 20, 2012 at 02:32 PM

Tim Ernst
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p.1 #3 · Safe "Bulb" exposures--how long is too long?

I did a 12-hour exposure with a D3s and the file was very clean with no issues -even without noise reduction turned on. The temp was about 15 degrees outside (powered via an AC adapter).

Feb 21, 2012 at 04:50 AM

iGeekPro
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p.1 #4 · Safe "Bulb" exposures--how long is too long?

How the... 12 hour exposure? Is that like no moon f/64 10 stop ND filter?

Feb 21, 2012 at 11:22 AM

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