Do it yourself or professionally
Now comes time to decide whether you want to tackle the infrared modification yourself or order up a professional conversion. I know it’s tempting to try and save the few bucks and DIY it but there are a number of pit falls you may be unaware of.
DIY modification
I think this short disclaimer we have at the start of every DIY infrared tutorial pretty much sums it up:
Disclaimer: This tutorial is intended for experienced professionals and made available to you for informational purposes only. Tampering with your camera will void your manufacturer’s warranty. If you decide to perform the conversion you could damage your camera or be hurt or get killed from the high voltage present – you do so at your own risk, we are not responsible for camera damage or any harm you may suffer or any special or consequential damages. Also, by visiting this site you are legally bound by our Terms of Use Agreement, we highly recommend you read it.
Focus Warning: Because of the complexity and requirement for specialized precision equipment, advanced training and experience, we do not provide any information regarding focus calibration whatsoever.
The mere act of removing the sensor from within the camera could potentially ruin the original factory calibration and render your camera completely incapable of achieving proper focus. If this happens we will be unable to help you and even the manufacturer may refuse to service your camera. This is very serious stuff folks.
Well, there you have it, short and sweet. Seriously though, leave this to us – you wouldn’t believe the number of calls and emails we receive from DIYers who break their cameras. Although occasionally we can tell were they’ve gone wrong and guide them on a fix, most often they end up needing to send the camera to a repair service center. This ends up costing MUCH more than paying for a professional IR conversion in the first place!
You may ask: “Then why in the world do you have them posted in the first place?!” Good question. Life Pixel was started by curious, experimenting DIYers who enjoy tinkering, no matter the risk to self or gadget. Heck, I myself remember always getting in trouble for taking apart all the toys I received. I never did end up putting them back together but I did learn a lot about mechanics, physics and electronics.
We have them up for the educational value, for showing what exactly is involved and for those who were going to try to DIY even if there were no tutorials. Plus, we have lots of repair shops from all over the world who would rather purchase a filter instead of having to send a camera to another country.
