Creative DIY uses for an old 35mm slide projector
Asked 4/25/2011
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2 answers
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I have a Braun Novamat 35mm slide projector that I no longer need because I’ve scanned my entire slide collection. Before I throw it away, I’d like to know if there are any worthwhile photography-related DIY uses for it, especially making use of the lens or light source.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
6
Entertain the cats. Be sure to project slides relevant to their interests.
(Then, of course, you can do as Jędrek Kostecki suggested, and use the projected slide as the starting point for a new photograph.)
Originally by user2138. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2138
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—an old 35mm slide projector can still be useful for creative photography projects.
A practical use is as a projection light source: project slides or hand-drawn/painted transparencies onto subjects or backgrounds to create textured portraits, abstract scenes, or in-camera double-exposure-style effects. This can be a fun way to add patterns and color without buying dedicated projection gear.
If you want to repurpose the optics, the projector lens can sometimes be adapted into an experimental camera lens. One example mentioned is a lo-fi fisheye-style build using a slide projector lens together with other parts. Results are usually very unconventional, but that can be the appeal.
So while it may not have a straightforward modern replacement role, it can still serve as:
- a creative light/projector for photographic effects
- a source of optics for DIY lens experiments
If neither appeals, it may still be worth keeping for occasional projection-based creative work rather than discarding it.
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