[peachdude]

Hi, I am interested in having my DSLR converted to IR by having the IR filter removed. I was wondering If it was possible to have a external IR filter that threads onto my lenses that will block the IR light to the sensor but still transmit all visible light through it, mimicking the original internal IR filter that was previously attached to the cameras image sensor? That way when I want to take IR photos I just take off the IR filter from my camera and when I want to take regular visible spectrum photos I put the IR filter back on? This seems possible to me be Im not sure. Please help!?!

[Markulous]

Originally Posted by peachdude

I was wondering If it was possible to have a external IR filter that threads onto my lenses that will block the IR light to the sensor but still transmit all visible light through it, mimicking the original internal IR filter that was previously attached to the cameras image sensor?

I'd guess that the answer could be "depends on camera". If it can be done then you can be sure that someone, somewhere has done it!

If you want a camera that can do it already, then look no further than the Sigma SD10. If I remove my dustfilter, I also remove my IR filter (they're one and the same!) and I keep meaning to give it all a whirl..............

[Hacker]

That appears to be a very long winded and costly way of doing it. Why not just use an IR filter on your camera as it is at the moment? Obviously this depends on your camera and it's internal workings eg the Nikon D70 can be used for IR photography but the D200 does not give good results. I'm sure someone will come along who can explain it a bit better.

[Dave]

If you are brave look here :- LifePixel Digital Camera Infrared IR Conversion Services. DIY IR Tutorials

For filters look at the "Hoya R72"

[megaera]

I have just converted my D70. I bought the filter from LifePixel ($90.00). It is actually a really straightforward job. It took me about 15 minutes. However (isn't there always a "however??) there are two MAJOR points to note.

Firstly, do not - repeat NOT - go anywhere near the blue capacitor on the right-hand side - it is very obvious to see when you have the back off. VERY high voltage. It can blow you clean off your chair.

Secondly and most importantly - do not even take the back off the camera (let alone star fiddling inside) without a wrist ground strap. I use an earth mat as well. Without good grounding, you can (and will!!) blow something major and expensive - such as the memory compression or CCD PCBs. Either of these cost more than a D70 is worth!!!

With that said - it really is very simple to do. The LifePixel tutorial is excellent - although I didn't strip the D70 down quite as much. The following link shows a much faster way of changing the filter

Nikon D70 IR cut filter removal

Part One covers the "normal" procedure - I used the Part Two method.

I wrongly assumed the AF would need adjusting. But having checked the AF with three different lenses - I was amazed (and relieved) to find the AF was spot-on!!

I cannot recommend converting the D70 highly enough. I spent 2 years mucking about with the D2H and a Hoya IR. YUK! Now, I can take birds in flight - using exactly the same settings as for a "normal" DSLR.

Also - once you have a good custom WB (grass in good lighting conditions) the classic "red" IR image is replaced by a more realistic IR look - which is much quicker to run through the channels in PS CS.

Sorry for the over long post

[Dave]

Thanks megaera for the detailed explanation....have left some rep points. Looking forward to seeing some shots taken with your IR camera