Pinhole Spy Camera

Your Mission: Build a Pinhole Spy Camera

Make a working film camera using common household materials. For the best experience, agents should use a browser with the latest version of Flash Player installed. Don’t have Flash? You can get the idea by following the instructions below.

Instructions

Materials

  • Black cardboard (8.5" x 5.5")
  • Blueprints [PDF]
  • Utility knife
  • Sewing needle
  • 110 cartridge film
  • Black duct tape
  • Loop screw
  • Aluminum foil

Step A

Print out the blueprint. Carefully cut out the template pieces. Glue the FRONT PLATE, SHUTTER, and BODY template pieces on the cardboard, then cut them out with a sharp utility knife.

Step B

Score three lines on the body cardboard piece, as indicated on the template. Now fold, where you've marked. You'll end up with a rectangular box. Tape together with duct tape.

Step C

Place the template piece, "ALUMINUM", onto the sheet of aluminum, then cut around the template. With a needle, poke a hole in the middle.

Step D

Tape the ALUMINUM piece onto the FRONT PLATE piece, aligning the pinhole to the center of the FRONT PLATE opening.

Step E

Attach the FRONT PLATE to the BODY, making sure the pinhole is centered. Seal tightly to prevent light seepage.

Step F

Insert the screw at one end of the SHUTTER. Tighten the screw through the FRONT PLATE to seal the two pieces together. Make sure they fit snugly, to prevent light seepage.

Step G

Fit the assembled cardboard pieces to the cartridge film and tape together, sealing all edges.