Safe to Change Lenses with camera on?

[Geno Marx]

Coming from the DSLR world and run and gun shooting, changing lenses quickly was common practice in my experience. I've been researching what the best case scenario is with changing lenses on set with a RED. I've seen some conflicting information on this with regards to cinema cameras. Some people say that it's better to power down so that you don't damage the sensor and allow dust in.

Is it necessary to power down before doing a quick lens change? And thereby also needing to go through the whole SDI protocol each time as well?

Thanks!

 

[M Harvey]

Quoting the user guide for the Red Helium Ranger: "All lenses are hot swappable." (Link to source below.)

I believe this applies broadly to all Red cameras-- though Red warns not to change the adapter or mount itself while the camera is on.

In any case, I've never been on a set with a non-DSLR like an Arri or Red or Venice or Sony FS7 where the camera was powered down for lens changes. It is ideal? Yes (because a powered-up sensor may attract more dust due to static electricity). Is it necessary? No.

You also refer to "the whole SDI protocol." You don't have to disconnect the SDI cables and power source and then reconnect them at reach power down or reboot-- see Arri's instructions here: https://www.arri.com/resource/blob/1...ation-data.pdf