The guys over at Photojojo have released a new accessory for DSLR cameras, the SLR Pinhole body cap, that fits on your DSLR body and turns it into a pinhole camera.
Slap this no-dust cap onto your Canon EOS or any Nikon DSLR (works on film SLRs also; no adapters needed!) and shoot through a most precisely made and perfectly round pinhole.
What is a Pinhole Camera?
A pinhole camera is one of the simplest forms of photography. It operates without a lens and instead uses a tiny aperture—a pinhole—to project an image onto the camera sensor or film. This method dates back to the earliest days of photography and even before, to the camera obscura used by artists. The pinhole allows light to enter the camera in a controlled manner, creating a soft-focus image with infinite depth of field. This technique can produce unique, dreamy photographs that are difficult to replicate with modern lenses.
Why Use a Pinhole Body Cap?
The SLR Pinhole body cap from Photojojo offers several advantages for photographers looking to experiment with pinhole photography. Firstly, it eliminates the need for a traditional lens, making your camera lighter and more portable. Secondly, the pinhole body cap is designed to be dust-free, ensuring that your camera sensor remains clean. This is particularly important for DSLR users who frequently change lenses and are concerned about dust particles affecting their images.
Moreover, the pinhole body cap is incredibly easy to use. Simply remove your existing lens, attach the pinhole body cap, and you’re ready to start shooting. This accessory is compatible with both Canon EOS and Nikon DSLR cameras, as well as film SLRs, making it a versatile addition to any photographer’s toolkit.
If you want one, the SLR Pinhole body cap is available for $50 from Photojojo, of course you could easily make your own using a standard body cap for your DSLR and a drill and save yourself $50.
DIY Pinhole Body Cap
For those who enjoy DIY projects, creating your own pinhole body cap can be a fun and cost-effective alternative. All you need is a standard body cap for your DSLR, a fine drill bit, and some patience. Here’s a simple guide to making your own:
1. Materials Needed: A DSLR body cap, a fine drill bit (around 0.3mm), sandpaper, and a piece of aluminum foil.
2. Drill the Hole: Carefully drill a small hole in the center of the body cap. Ensure the hole is as round and smooth as possible.
3. Prepare the Pinhole: Cut a small piece of aluminum foil and use a needle to create a tiny pinhole in the center. The pinhole should be very small and precise.
4. Attach the Foil: Tape the aluminum foil with the pinhole over the drilled hole in the body cap. Make sure the pinhole is centered.
5. Smooth the Edges: Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges around the drilled hole to prevent light leaks.
Once your DIY pinhole body cap is ready, attach it to your DSLR and start experimenting with pinhole photography. While the DIY method may not be as precise as the Photojojo version, it offers a great way to explore this unique form of photography without spending much money.
via Wired
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