well I seem to have started something if only an intellectual exercise on the definition of shutter speeds; the whole point of modifying the camera for ir is so that I CAN handhold. I have an Olympus C70 which has been modified and can be hand held, but it is "only" a 7.1 compact. I'm hoping for better results with the Pentax :ist conversion, especially as I can use "proper" SLR lenses (now start debating wot's a "proper" lens, boys). So far as progress with the conversion is concerned: it has been done, over Christmas, the hot filter removed and the camera all put together again. Only problem the backup battery failed and we didn't have a spare, so will have to wait a few days for the Sea Trials. I will keep you all up to date, if you are interested.

has anyone taken apart an *ist D? we want to get at the hot filter to convert to IR (previously done with other cameras): have replaced my *stD with K10D, so it is redundant.

Thanks to those who responded to my query re infrared photography. have IR lens, but am still looking for conversion of my istD. However, a different issue now: filters for K10D, or similar.

I'm about to visit USA canyons of the south west, with NIgel Turner workshops. I'm not a particularly experienced landscape photographer though I've had my moments. I've got a selection of lenses, wide angle, telephoto etc. but am wondering what I should have in the area of filters - having never used them, wonder exactly what might be necessary. Sounds idiotically naive, but am I really going to need ND, graduated or not, and polorisers? we are going to do a lot of pre dawn, dawn and sunset work so keeping light out won't be exactly essential, or will it? I dont rely on the computer to put things right, and never will.

So far am very happy with the K10 D; have my doubts about the usefulness of the anti-shake, and have taken a lot of macro pics, which seem to give better depth and sharpness than the istD.

any advice on filters gratefully received.

anyone converted their istD to take infrared? I know it can be done/has been done/Pentax know it has been done but don't do it. Anyone know any firm that will do it?