How to Make a Bokeh Lens

Step 1: Make the lens hood Cut a strip of the paperboard and wrap it around the lens to make a lens hood for the camera.
Step 2: Trace the lens Place the lens on the paper, trace its outline, and cut out the traced circle.
TIP: You can cut the circle to fit the size of the filter thread on the camera lens and skip making a lens hood.
Step 3: Cut out the bokeh shape Cut out the desired bokeh shape in the center of the circle of paperboard.
Step 4: Attach the bokeh shape Attach the circle to the lens either by taping it to the lens hood or by threading it onto the filter thread.
Step 5: Open the aperture Open the aperture of the lens all the way.
Step 6: Take pictures Aim the camera at a source of light, and adjust the focus until the light blurs and forms the bokeh shape. Take plenty of pictures using your newfound technique.
FACT: Did you know? Before the famous photographer Ansel Adams dedicated his life to photography he was a concert pianist.

Lessons in this Guide