Directions to Make a Pinhole Camera

Which Pinhole Camera Is Right for You?

• While capturing images on photo paper and being able to display them is undeniably exciting, the miniature camera obscura provides better insight into how a modern camera actually works. With this option, you get to see reversed, upside-down images, just like what a commercially available camera captures on its sensor. You can even move backward and forward to adjust focus. Determine which is the best pinhole camera for your interests before going out and acquiring materials.

Building a Camera that Captures Images

• Start with a shoe box or oatmeal box for the body of the camera and make sure that you have a small, thin metal section (a brass shim or a sliced can will work just fine), black electrical tape, a box cutter, a straight pin and some sand paper. You'll also need photo paper in order to capture images from your homemade camera.

Building a Miniature Camera Obscura

• For this type of pinhole camera, you'll want something cylindrical and cardboard to serve as the body; a Pringles can is ideal. Grab a roll of aluminum foil, a sheet of wax paper and one sheet of black paper (preferably construction paper). Black electrical tape is your best bet for sealing up gaps, and a straight pin will be ideal for making the hole. A ruler, a box cutter and a marker will all help make the project easier, too.

Following Instructions

• There are a number of websites and books that provide detailed, step-by-step instructions for assembling either type of pinhole camera. Though they shouldn't be complicated, it's important to follow each step to make sure the camera works properly.

It's Ready!

• Once your camera is ready, try putting an object--such as a stuffed animal or a chair--under an illuminated floor lamp and turn out all other lights in the room. Having an isolated, well-lit subject is a great place to start your experimentation with your new pinhole camera. A closet works well for this. Point the pinhole end of the camera at the object, and your photographic adventure has begun.