Practical Pinhole Photo Technique

In your Pinhole Photography adventures, you will need some very foundational information.  The function of a pinhole camera may go back to centuries before your time, but the scientific principles haven't changed. 

Below you'll find some simple instruction on Pinhole Basics:

Step 1:  Your Camera Set-up

When configuring your camera, there are some factors to consider:

Do you have the correct pinhole for your focal length? 
See our Focal Length Chart

Do you have a shutter mechanism that allows for long exposures?
Examples are COPAL or Prontor Press brand shutters... or any allowing Bulb or Open setting.

Example of Copal Shutter from Schneider-Kruznach Lens. Co.

Do you know the reciprocity failure factor of your film?
Most film types come with information regarding the long-exposure performance characteristics of that film.  That factor plays a part in timing your exposure. 

Step 2:  Pinhole Technique

Infinite Depth-of-Field
Lenox Laser's Precision Pinholes will operate in your pinhole camera set-up with an infinite depth-of-field.  Things close to your lens and far away will all be in focus on the film plane.  Use this to your advantage!

Extended Exposure Times
A traffic scene.  A waterfall.  A bird in flight.  Motion happens around us in "real-time", but an extended exposure pinhole photo can record a period in time on a single film plane.  The traffic scene comes alive as a blur of vibrant city colors.  The waterfall is a blur of aquatic beauty.  And a bird in flight becomes an arching natural wonder as it slices across the sky.

3 Hour Exposure in Low Light with Lenox Laser Pinhole
"Kleur 2",  Willem Labeij  Holland

Exciting Light Effects
It is possible to record light in very interesting ways when using a pinhole lens.  Extended exposure times allow for the photographer to paint with light, to produce stunning multiple exposures, and play with color.

The scientific principles of light diffraction are seen readily with a pinhole created in a thin-film metal.  Lenox Laser precision pinholes are drilled in ultra-thin stainless steel, providing an unequalled crisp edge for quality light diffraction.  With clearer diffraction, the photographer can incorporate light effects into his repertoire with confidence, knowing the pinhole will accurately transmit the desired result.

Step 3:  Enjoy!

Pinhole photography is an art form, a science, and most of all, a great way to record time, places, and beauty in the world around you.  Enjoy your pinhole photographic adventure and go shoot!
 

"Kleur 2",  Willem Labeij, Lenox Laser Pinhole Photograph