Solar filters protect both your eyes and your camera from the sun’s intense light. Commercial filters typically cost over $100, which makes a DIY approach attractive for budget‑conscious photographers. This guide walks you through building a reliable, safe solar filter for your camera—no more than a few household items and a sheet of Baader AstroSolar Safety Film 5.0.
What You’ll Need
- 1 sheet of Baader AstroSolar Safety Film 5.0
- 2 pieces of heavy white cardstock, bristol board, or cardboard
- Scissors
- Mechanical compass
- Pencil
- Double‑sided tape
- Craft glue (Elmer’s or similar)
- A few tissues
Step 1: Create Your Circles
Using the compass and pencil, draw two circles on your cardstock that are roughly 4″ larger than your camera’s aperture. Inside those circles, draw a ring that matches the diameter of the aperture (or the dew shield if it is non‑removable). Cut out both the outer and inner circles. When you compare them to your camera, the inner circle should line up exactly with the aperture or shield, while the outer ring should extend past the sides.
Step 2: Apply Double‑Sided Tape
Cover one side of each circle entirely with double‑sided tape. Lay the tape in overlapping strips and trim away excess with scissors or a razor blade.
Step 3: Prepare the Tissue
Lay a tissue flat on a table and tape its corners to keep it wrinkle‑free. The tissue will support the solar film during assembly.
Step 4: Cut the Solar Film
Cut a square piece of the Baader film that is slightly larger than the outer circle. Leave the protective coating intact at this point.
Step 5: Mount the Film on Tissue
Place the square film on the taped tissue, lightly tap the corners to keep it flat, then gently remove the protective coating. Handle the film carefully—any damage will compromise its filtering ability.
Step 6: Attach the First Cardboard Ring
Position one cardboard ring (sticky side down) about an inch above the film, then drop it onto the film and press lightly so it adheres fully.
Step 7: Attach the Second Cardboard Ring
Repeat the previous step with the second ring, ensuring no pressure is applied to the film’s surface. At this point the film is sandwiched between two cardboard rings.
Step 8: Create the Base
Cut three strips about 2″ wide from the same cardboard. Wrap each strip around the camera’s dew cap or objective lens, securing with double‑stick tape. Stack the three strips to form a sturdy, triple‑thick ring that will hold the filter.
Step 9: Glue the Base to the Filter
Remove the strips from the lens, apply a thin layer of glue to the underside of the strip assembly, and press it onto the outer edge of the filter. Allow the glue to dry completely before handling.
Store the finished filter carefully—any scratches or bends to the film will invalidate the filter. Keep it in a protective case away from direct sunlight and abrasive surfaces.
By following these steps, you’ll have a reliable, cost‑effective solar filter that lets you capture the sun’s beauty safely.