FS: IR-modified Pentax *ist DL

This is a modified Pentax *ist DL with shutter count 7198.

I have replaced the original IR-blocking filter with a new Schott RG830 optical filter, so it is effectively an IR camera without requiring a filter on the lens.

You can use the viewfinder normally - the filter is after the mirror and before the sensor.
AF works normally, but for optimum results should be calibrated for different lenses. It is set for the kit 18-55 at the moment, it is easy to set up for different lenses as long as you don't mind taking some test shots. I have left the camera in debug mode so that altering the AF is easy, full instructions will be provided. For my Sigma 10-20mm I just pre-focus manually on 1m and that covers everything.

This is not a camera to be purchased casually - IR photography needs some thought. You should be familiar with the concepts, if you are a Plus member then please look at the two articles I've written, part 1 and part 2.

You can also see examples taken on modified Pentax/Samsung bodies in my Flickr stream, this camera is modified in exactly the same way.

History: I converted it originally and it was used briefly by aliengrove to produce his shots of the Himalayas. He's now moved on to a converted K20D so I've now reworked this conversion to remove some dust spots and recalibrate the AF. There are still a few dust spots on the left of the frame that may become evident against some plain backgrounds or when contrast is enhanced - these respond well to the Photoshop healing brush or clone stamp.

Today I used this camera to take some shots at Portchester Castle to verify the AF calibration and to field test it. Not ideal weather, but it proves it works. The pictures in that thread are not converted to mono - that's the colour balance out of the camera.










It comes with the box, paper manual and strap. No mini-USB, no CD. It requires 4 AA batteries, I have been using some Duracell rechargeables but most people swear by Sanyo Eneloops.

The pop-up flash doesn't pop up due to a broken connection on the main board - external flashes work fine. To be honest I wouldn't expect you to need or use the pop-up flash in IR.

To fund my acquisition of cameras I'd like £250 plus shipping, which is probably about £7 for Royal Mail Special Delivery in the UK.

Since this is a specialised camera please ask any questions in this thread or via PM, I want to make sure the new owner understands what they are buying.

There's one person definitely interested - any more?

Now sold.