It wasn’t until Barry Fitzgerald introduced the full spectrum camera on an episode of Ghost Hunters International,
did it become popular in the paranormal investigating community. Little did viewers know that full spectrum cameras have been
used for Astrophotography and forensics for years.
What is a full spectrum camera?
The term “full spectrum” means that the camera can let in the entire range of the light spectrum.
Cameras, much like humans, are made to only take in the light from the visible spectrum. Filters in the camera block out light
from the low end of the spectrum (ultraviolet or UV) as well as the high end (infrared or IR), and only letting in the middle
part which is the visible range. A good example is the sun’s UV rays. They are there but we aren’t able to see
them. Converting the camera will then allow it to see the full range of the light spectrum, from UV all the way to IR.
Now the question remains: Where can I
get one?
The answer is: it’s not where you
can get one, but rather where you can get your camera modified. To date, there is actually only one camera that comes out
of the box ready to take pictures in the full spectrum. The Fujifilm IS Pro can do it…at a cost of about $2,700. Don’t
have that much coin? Don’t worry!
First, go to www.spencerscamera.com and find out which cameras and models can be converted (not all digital cameras can
be modified). The only other company I know of that does conversions is LifePixel, however they charge about $100 more on
average for the same service. I am very impressed and thankful for the service Spencer’s Camera provided me.
Second, avoid going out and purchasing a new camera. The reason being, once you crack it open to modify
the camera, your warranty becomes void. You’re much better off finding a used camera on Ebay or Craigslist. I won my
Canon Rebel XT on Ebay for $295 which included the standard lens and some extras.
Next, send
in your camera to get converted. Spencer’s charges anywhere from $275 to $425 for the full spectrum conversion depending
on which camera you have. Shipping will run you about $25 each way including insurance.
Barry Fitzgerald spent approximately $1800 for his full spectrum camera. My final cost,
$619. Owning a full spectrum camera can be very affordable, if you know how
to go about it the right way.
