Does constantly adding and removing filters to the lens damage it?

[Arcadio]

I just got the Canon PowerShot SX50. I also bought some filters. How vulnerable is the lens of the camera if you keep inserting and removing the filters constantly? same with the lens cap. I've always thought of the retractable lens of a camera as being particularly vulnerable to excess force being applied when inserting adapters, filters, etc.

Is that something I need to be careful with?

 

[Syborg1211]

I'm not familiar with your camera - do your filters screw onto your lens? That's how most filters are applied, and as long as you don't crossthread or overtighten them you should be good.

 

[Berliner]

Careful: Yes.

Worry if you are careful: Probably not.

Moving lenses are one of the biggest failure points though, so your thoughts are not wrong.

 

[Imp]

I also have an SX50. It needs a filter adapter, IIRC. Only comes with a bayonet mount?

I got an aftermarket 58mm filter adapter and put on a UV filter for protection. It bugged me to put on the filter and adapter because of the non-replaceable nature of the zoom lens.

With my mirrorless, I'm more worried about wearing down the threads than the twisting action since I have to screw the lens onto the camera anyways.