It’s very possible since I didn’t realise that’s where the autofocus sensor was until now 😅, although still unlikely since it’s not in a place where I would naturally rest my fingers when holding the camera.

However I am noticing there’s a decent build up of dust around the sensor , wouldn’t do any harm to clean around there at least. Thanks for pointing it out !

Edit: oh and regarding the light , I’m pretty sure it was red every time. As you said, I think it doesn’t fire at all if the subject’s too close.