SUMMARY
An Instagram photographer's viral Reel claimed a sun flare photo destroyed their Fujifilm X100F camera sensor, but experts suggest direct damage from such wide-angle shots is improbable. While prolonged exposure to the sun can harm camera sensors, especially with long lenses or extended shutter speeds, a quick exposure of a smaller sun in the frame poses minimal risk. The photographer's camera still functions, though they noted a perceived degradation over time. The article also warns about the severe danger of looking at the sun through an optical viewfinder, which can cause permanent eye damage.
TAKEAWAYS
Wide-angle sunburst photos are unlikely to destroy a camera sensor.
Long lenses and extended exposures increase the risk of sun damage to sensors.
Never look at the sun through an optical viewfinder to avoid severe eye damage.