How to Make a Fisheye Lens for a Flip

Fisheye lenses allow the user to capture a wide-angle image with a unique and intriguing distortion.

Flip camcorders are easy-to-use, handheld video recorders that shoot high-quality video and fit right in your pocket. For users looking to explore their options with the Flip, the only downside seems to be that they come equipped with a single lens---the digital zoom. This severely limits artistic freedom. The use of a fisheye lens allows the user to capture an extremely wide angle image with a unique distortion that many people desire for their photographs. Although there are no fisheye lenses on the market, they are relatively simple to create yourself.

Things You'll Need

• 180-degree peephole
• Electrical or duct tape
• Two elastic bands

Instructions

1. Purchase a peephole that has a 180-degree view, which will ensure the full fisheye effect. These peepholes are available at most hardware stores.

2. Prepare the peephole by wrapping the shaft with electrical or duct tape until the width of the shaft matches the width of the base--this end will rest over the shutter of the Flip.

3. Wrap the shaft with an elastic band, making sure to leave enough slack to wrap around the Flip camcorder as well.

4. Place the base of the peephole over the shutter of the Flip camcorder, and wrap the elastic around the top portion of the Flip camcorder, making sure the elastic band is secure.

5. Repeat Step 3 with the second elastic band.

6. Wrap the second elastic around the bottom portion of the Flip camcorder, making sure the elastic band is tight enough. The peephole should now be secured to the Flip. Minor adjustments can be made for placement of the peephole. You should see the entire 180-degree view in your viewfinder.

Tips & Warnings

• When looking for a peephole to purchase for your fisheye lens, opt for a black matte material or another dark color. This will ensure that your video will have a black ring around the image---characteristic of a fisheye photo. It will also avoid glare from metallic surfaces.

• You may want to put a protective film covering over the shutter of the Flip camcorder in order to prevent any scratches that may occur as a result of the peephole rubbing against it. These coverings, often available for iPods, can be purchased at most electronic outlets and can then be cut to size with a pair of scissors.

References

• Flip Video