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Sony DCR-HC26 IR + Visible Functionality

Model: XNiteSonyHC26   

This model has been replaced by the DCR-HC48

We have a fully functional, brand-new 0-Lux Infrared (IR) capable Sony Camcorder DCR-HC26 that has been modied to see IR and Visible light simultaneously in normal mode.   By placing an IR filter on the camera, you can use the camera to see infrared images with all normal camera functionality unlike the NiteShot mode where the aperture is fully wide and shutter speed is 1/30 of a second.  This camera permits you to shoot in broad daylight with full shutter and aperture control.  This modified camera is completely normal as a regular Handycam but and can also film at up to 1200nm even in daylight.  You can use this as your regular camcorder and also as your infrared camcorder.

Externally, there are no visual changes. Internally, we have modified the optics so that the camera can see from 330nm to 1200nm versus a stock camera which can see from about 380nm to 750nm

Click Here For Actual Pictures Taken With our Camcorder and Normal Camcorder

Click Here For A Comparison Of Our Different Filters

All currently manufactured Sony camcorders will shoot a washed-out picture in daylight situations when in Niteshot mode without an IR filter!  For a brief period a few years ago, some Sony handycams/handicams could shoot in daylight when in 0-Lux Niteshot mode.  Then, some users discovered the ability to see through some fabrics in certain situations (The infamous X-Ray effect).  When Sony found out, they changed the camcorders so that when you are in Niteshot mode, the aperture is forced to full open and slow shutter speed.  The result is that if you try shooting in daylight situations when in Niteshot mode, your picture will be completely washed-out and overexposed.  Further, even if you use neutral density filters to compensate, the depth of field is very shallow meaning that your focus will only be correct in a narrow range.  Also, the slow shutter speed will blur moving objects.

Don't be mislead by others selling normal camcorders with the Niteshot feature.  Unless the camcorder has been re-enabled, the you may not be able to shoot outdoors in Niteshot mode will be with the addition of neutral density filters depending on the light and your particular model camera.  Make sure when somebody tells you the camcorder is "modified" that you understand if it was modified to shoot Niteshot during the day or modified by Sony NOT to shoot during the day!

This camera has been modified so that in normal mode, the camera see both infrared and visible light simultaneously.  This means:

1:  If you want to only see the infrared spectrum, you need to use an infrared pass / visible light blocking filter such as our XNite IR filters.

2:  For normal photography, you will need to use an XNiteCC1 color correct filter which blocks Infrared light and passes visible light.  If you don't use an XNiteCC1 filter, the camera will see both IR and visible light simultaneously which will result in strangely colored pictures especially outdoors.  

3:  In NiteShot mode, the camera operates like a stock camcorder.  The IR illuminating IR LED's turn on, exposure and aperture control is limited and the picture is tinted green.  You generally will only use the factory NiteShot mode when taking pictures at night where when you want the IR illuminating LED's to turn on.  Otherwise, the normal mode is better for IR photography including low light photography where you don't want or can't use the IR illuminators.

The 25mm filters for this camera are available Here.

Externally, there are no visual changes. Internally, we have modified the optics so that the camera can see from 330nm to 1200nmx versus a stock camera which can see from about 390nm to 750nm

 Specifications 

The 25mm filters for this camera are available Here.

Would you like us to convert your camera? We can convert your camera for $250 + return S&H ($20 insured UPS ground domestic USA).  Camera should be shipped well packed, insured, with lens cover and battery for testing.  Turnaround is typically 1 or 2 days depending on how busy we are.

Our Performance Guarantee  If you are not satisfied with your IR enabled camera, we will put it back to stock at no additional charge other than return shipping.

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Last modified: June 18, 2015