Based on looking at the website, Spencerscamera.com appears to be a highly specialized online retailer and service provider catering to the niche market of astrophotography and infrared photography.

While the site emphasizes camera conversions, specialized gear, and workshops, it’s important to approach any purchase or service with diligence.

For those seeking to capture the wonders of the night sky or delve into unique photographic spectrums, Spencerscamera.com positions itself as a go-to resource.

However, as with any specialized service, understanding the intricacies and ensuring it aligns with your specific needs and values is key.

Spencerscamera.com focuses heavily on camera modifications for astrophotography and infrared imaging, offering services that convert standard cameras for enhanced performance in these fields.

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They also provide specialized equipment like astro-modified cameras, astronomy filters, and even workshops to teach the art of astrophotography.

This hyper-focus suggests a deep level of expertise within their specific domain, aiming to serve serious enthusiasts and professionals.

It’s crucial for potential customers to verify that their services and products align with their photographic goals, and perhaps more importantly, that the financial transactions involved are transparent and free from any ambiguity.

Always ensure any financial arrangements are based on clear, upfront terms, and avoid anything that might involve hidden fees or interest, which is always something to steer clear of.

For significant investments, consider alternatives like saving up and purchasing outright to avoid debt, or seeking out ethical financing if available.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Spencerscamera.com Review & First Look

Based on checking the website, Spencerscamera.com presents itself as a dedicated hub for astrophotography and infrared camera modifications.

The immediate impression is one of specialized expertise, with clear mentions of services like “Astro Conversions” and “Infrared/Full Spectrum Conversions.” The navigation is straightforward, highlighting key product categories and services directly from the homepage.

Initial Impressions: The site design is functional, not overly flashy, focusing on the services and products. It clearly states its operating hours and any upcoming closures, like the annual Moab Astrophotography workshop, which is a good sign of transparency and a real-world presence.
Target Audience: It’s evident this site caters to serious photographers looking to modify their equipment for specific, advanced applications in astrophotography and infrared imaging. This isn’t a general camera store. it’s a specialist’s shop.
Key Services Highlighted:
- Astro Modified Cameras: Offering pre-modified cameras.
- Infrared/Full Spectrum Conversions: Services to convert existing cameras.
- Astrophotography Workshops: On-location educational experiences.
- Post Processing Tips & Instructions: Live remote sessions.
Credibility Indicators: The mention of “Camera Conversion Provider for NASA” on their homepage, though from 2012, lends a significant layer of credibility. This suggests a history of high-precision work. While historical, it’s a strong testament to their technical capabilities.
Product Assortment: Beyond services, they offer specific brands and products tailored to their niche, such as ZWO Products, Benro – Polaris Astro Edition, Calibrite Color Control, Shimoda Camera Backpacks, and various specialized filters Astronomy Filters, Daystar Solar Filters, On-Lens Filters. This curated selection confirms their specialization.

Spencerscamera.com Features

Spencerscamera.com offers a suite of highly specialized features designed for the discerning astrophotographer and infrared enthusiast.

These features extend beyond simple product sales, delving into services and educational offerings that distinguish them in this niche market.

Camera Modification Services:
- Infrared/Full Spectrum Conversions: This service involves removing or modifying the internal filters of a camera sensor to allow it to capture light beyond the visible spectrum. This is crucial for infrared photography, which can reveal details invisible to the naked eye.
- Astro Conversions: Similar to IR conversions, but specifically optimized for astrophotography. This often involves removing the camera’s internal IR cut filter like the “AA Filter Removal” mentioned, allowing more light from nebulae and other celestial objects particularly H-alpha wavelengths to reach the sensor.
- NASA Conversions: This historical mention indicates their capacity for high-precision, reliable modifications, suggesting a stringent quality control process. While the NASA partnership was in 2012, it speaks volumes about their past capabilities and potentially their ongoing standards.
Specialized Product Offerings:
- Astro Modified Cameras: They sell cameras that have already undergone the necessary modifications, providing a ready-to-use solution for astrophotographers.
- Astronomy Filters: Essential for capturing specific wavelengths of light from celestial objects, enhancing contrast and detail in astrophotography.
- Telescope & Mount Accessories: Products like the Benro Polaris Astro Edition a smart tracking mount indicate their commitment to providing full solutions for tracking celestial objects accurately.
- Image Calibration Tools: Calibrite Color Control suggests they also cater to the post-processing needs, ensuring accurate color rendition.
- High-Performance Memory Cards: ProGrade Digital memory cards are known for speed and reliability, critical for capturing large image files quickly.
Educational Workshops & Support:
- Astrophotography Workshops: These “on location workshops at some of the most beautiful locations in the world” provide hands-on learning experiences for nightscape and astrophotography. This is a significant value-add, moving beyond just selling products to educating users.
- LIVE Remote Post Processing Tips & Instructions: Offering personalized guidance from Adobe Photoshop and PixInsight experts via live recorded video sessions. This demonstrates a commitment to helping customers achieve optimal results with their modified cameras and astrophotography data.
Repair & Services: Beyond conversions, they also offer general “Camera Repairs & Services,” which is convenient for customers who might need maintenance or troubleshooting for their specialized gear.

Spencerscamera.com Pros & Cons

Navigating a specialized online store like Spencerscamera.com requires understanding its strengths and weaknesses.

Here’s a breakdown based on the website’s content and structure.

Pros

Highly Specialized Expertise: The core strength of Spencerscamera.com is its deep specialization in astrophotography and infrared camera conversions. This isn’t a general electronics store. it’s run by professionals who understand the intricate needs of this niche. The mention of “NASA Conversions” from 2012 underlines their past high-level technical capability.
Comprehensive Services: They offer not just modified cameras but also conversion services for existing cameras, repair services, and a curated selection of specialized gear filters, trackers, memory cards, bags. This makes them a one-stop shop for serious enthusiasts.
Educational Opportunities: The provision of “Astrophotography Workshops” and “LIVE Remote Post Processing Tips & Instructions” is a significant advantage. This demonstrates a commitment to helping customers master the craft, not just sell them equipment. For those new to astrophotography, these resources can be invaluable.
Curated Product Selection: Instead of overwhelming customers with countless options, they offer specific, high-quality brands relevant to their niche ZWO, Benro, Calibrite, Shimoda, ProGrade Digital. This suggests careful vetting of products.
Transparency Regarding Availability: The notice about their upcoming closure for the Moab Astrophotography workshop, with limited email access, is a good example of transparent communication regarding service availability. This sets clear expectations for customers.
Focus on Technical Niche: By focusing on modifications for astrophotography and infrared, they address a specific, high-demand need that most standard camera retailers don’t offer. This niche focus allows them to develop unparalleled expertise in these areas.

Cons

Niche Focus Means Limited Scope: While a strength for its target audience, its specialization means Spencerscamera.com isn’t suitable for general photography needs. If you’re looking for standard camera bodies, lenses, or accessories for everyday use, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Pricing Transparency: While products are listed, the pricing for services like camera conversions isn’t immediately visible without navigating deeper or requesting a quote. For high-value services, clear, upfront pricing is essential for comparison and budgeting.
Website Design & Modernity: The website is functional but appears somewhat dated compared to modern e-commerce platforms. While this doesn’t affect functionality, a more contemporary design could enhance user experience.
Limited Customer Reviews on site: The website itself doesn’t prominently feature customer reviews or testimonials for its services or products, making it harder for new customers to gauge satisfaction directly from the site. External review platforms would need to be consulted for broader customer feedback.
No Clear Refund/Return Policy: A comprehensive and easily accessible return or refund policy is crucial for any online purchase, especially for specialized and high-value items or services. This information isn’t immediately obvious on the homepage.
Dependence on Manual Communication for Support: While they provide phone and email contacts, the “limited access to emails and social media during this time” referring to the workshop closure indicates that customer support might not always be instantly available, especially during peak times or off-hours.
No Mention of Warranty for Conversions: When a camera is modified, it’s critical to understand how the conversion affects the manufacturer’s warranty and what kind of warranty Spencer’s Camera provides for their work. This information is not prominently displayed.

Spencerscamera.com Alternatives

Given the specialized nature of Spencerscamera.com, finding direct, all-encompassing alternatives can be challenging.

However, depending on what specific service or product you’re seeking, there are various excellent alternatives, particularly for those looking for broader photography resources, ethical financing, or alternative approaches to niche photography.

For Camera Conversion Services Astro/IR:
- Kolari Vision: Widely regarded as a leader in infrared and full-spectrum camera conversions. They offer a wide range of conversion types, filters, and even modified cameras for sale. Their reputation for quality and customer service is strong.
- LifePixel: Another prominent name in the camera conversion market, specializing in infrared, full-spectrum, and astro-modified cameras. They offer various filter options and a robust selection of pre-modified cameras.
- CentralDS for Astrophotography: Known for specialized cooling modifications for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, which are crucial for reducing noise in long-exposure astrophotography.
- Local Camera Repair Shops with specialization: Some independent camera repair shops might offer specialized services like sensor cleaning or custom modifications. This would require research into local providers with relevant expertise.
For Astrophotography Equipment & Gear without conversion:
- Adorama / B&H Photo Video: These are two of the largest and most reputable photography retailers globally. They offer an extensive range of telescopes, equatorial mounts, astrophotography cameras dedicated cooled astro cams like ZWO, QHY, filters, and accessories from various brands. They also have excellent return policies and customer support.
- High Point Scientific / Astronomics: Dedicated astronomy retailers that stock a vast array of telescopes, mounts, and accessories specifically for astrophotography. They often have knowledgeable staff who can guide purchases.
- OptCorp / OPT Telescopes: Similar to the above, these are specialized astronomy stores providing high-end gear and expertise for serious astrophotographers.
- Manufacturer Websites: For specific brands like ZWO, QHY, Celestron, Meade, explore their official websites for direct purchases or authorized dealer lists.
For Astrophotography Workshops & Education:
- National Parks & Observatories: Many national parks e.g., Death Valley, Big Bend, Joshua Tree offer ranger-led astrophotography programs or host workshops by independent photographers. Observatories often have public outreach programs.
- Online Learning Platforms: Platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, CreativeLive, and YouTube host countless courses and tutorials on astrophotography and post-processing e.g., PixInsight, Adobe Photoshop. Many professional astrophotographers offer their own paid online courses.
- Local Astronomy Clubs: These clubs often organize star parties, workshops, and mentorship opportunities for members. They are a fantastic way to learn from experienced individuals in your community.
For Ethical Financial Practices General Photography Purchases:
- Saving and Cash Purchases: The most straightforward and ethical approach is to save up and purchase equipment outright. This avoids any interest-based loans or credit, which are not permissible.
- Community-Based Lending/Borrowing informal: For less expensive gear, consider borrowing from trusted friends or community members.
- Halal Financing Options: Research and explore financial institutions or services that offer sharia-compliant financing. These options typically involve lease-to-own Ijara or cost-plus-profit Murabaha structures, avoiding interest. Always ensure any such arrangement is genuinely sharia-compliant.
- Second-Hand Marketplaces Carefully: Buying used gear from reputable sellers on platforms like eBay, FredMiranda.com, or local photography groups can be a cost-effective way to acquire equipment without incurring debt, but always prioritize cash transactions and thorough inspection.

When considering alternatives, always conduct thorough research, read independent reviews, and prioritize transparent business practices.

For significant investments, ethical financial planning is paramount.

How to Cancel Spencerscamera.com Orders/Services

Based on the information available on the Spencerscamera.com website, explicit details on how to cancel an order, service, or workshop booking are not immediately prominent.

In such specialized cases, direct communication is almost always the best and most ethical approach.

Immediate Action for Order Cancellation:
1. Contact Them Directly and Immediately: The most effective way to attempt a cancellation, especially for an order or service that has just been placed, is to contact Spencerscamera.com as soon as possible.
  - Phone: Call their listed phone number: 801 367-7569. This is likely the quickest method for immediate concerns.
  - Email: Send an email to [email protected]. Clearly state your order number, the service/item you wish to cancel, and the reason for cancellation. Keep a record of the email for your documentation.
2. Be Prepared for Service-Specific Policies: For highly customized services like camera conversions, it’s possible that once work has begun or components have been ordered, cancellation might not be fully possible, or it might incur a cancellation fee. This is common with bespoke services.
3. Check for “Terms and Conditions” or “Return Policy”: While not explicitly linked on the homepage, there might be a “Terms and Conditions,” “Shipping,” or “Return Policy” page buried in the footer or elsewhere on the site. It’s crucial to search for these pages as they usually contain cancellation clauses. If you can’t find them, assume a direct communication approach is required.
For Workshop Cancellations:
1. Look for Workshop-Specific Terms: Workshops often have their own specific cancellation policies, especially regarding deposits or full payments. These terms are usually detailed on the workshop registration page or in the confirmation email you receive upon booking.
2. Inquire About Refunds/Credits: If you need to cancel a workshop, ask if a full or partial refund is possible, or if the payment can be converted into a credit for a future workshop.
3. Consider Transferring Your Spot: Some workshops might allow you to transfer your registration to another individual if you can’t attend, which could be an alternative to a full cancellation.
General Best Practices for Cancellations:
- Act Quickly: The sooner you initiate the cancellation process, the higher the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
- Document Everything: Keep records of all communication emails, phone call dates/times, names of representatives.
- Understand Financial Implications: For specialized services or workshops, understand that some fees might be non-refundable, especially if resources have already been allocated or work has begun.

Important Note on Financial Transactions: Always ensure that any financial transactions, including refunds or credits related to cancellations, are processed transparently and align with sound, ethical financial practices. Avoid any scenarios involving hidden charges, interest penalties, or deceptive practices. If you are unsure about any financial terms, seek clarification or avoid proceeding.

Spencerscamera.com Pricing

Based on the Spencerscamera.com website, specific pricing details for many of their core services, particularly camera conversions, are not immediately displayed in a clear, upfront manner on their main product/service pages.

This is common for specialized custom work, where the price can vary depending on the camera model, the specific type of conversion, and any additional requests.

Service Pricing Quotes Required:
- Camera Conversions Infrared/Full Spectrum/Astro: For services like “Infrared/Full Spectrum Conversions” and “Astro Conversions,” the website likely requires customers to contact them directly for a quote. This is standard practice as the complexity and labor involved can differ significantly between camera models and desired outcomes. You would typically need to provide your camera model and the specific conversion type you’re interested in to get an accurate price.
- Camera Repairs & Services: Similar to conversions, repair costs are highly variable depending on the issue and camera model, necessitating a direct inquiry for a quote.
- LIVE Remote Post Processing Tips & Instructions: While they offer this service, the pricing structure e.g., hourly rates, package deals is not immediately visible, requiring direct inquiry.
Product Pricing Generally Visible:
- Pre-Modified Cameras: For “Astro Modified Cameras,” pricing should be visible on individual product pages, as these are pre-configured units for sale. For example, if they have an “Astro Modified Canon EOS R5,” the price would be listed alongside the camera’s specifications.
- Accessories & Gear: Products from brands like ZWO, Benro, Calibrite, Shimoda, ProGrade Digital, and various filters Astronomy Filters, On-Lens Filters generally have their prices listed on their respective product pages. These are standard retail items with set prices.
- Workshops: Pricing for “Astrophotography Workshops” is usually detailed on the specific workshop’s dedicated page, including any deposits, full payment requirements, and what’s included e.g., accommodation, meals.
General Observations on Pricing Approach:
- Custom Service Model: The primary revenue stream for conversions appears to be a custom service model, where pricing is determined on a case-by-case basis. This allows for flexibility but requires customers to engage in direct communication for quotes.
- Value Proposition: Given the specialized nature of their services precision camera modifications, the pricing is likely reflective of expert labor, specialized equipment, and the niche market they serve. Such services often command premium prices due to the technical skills involved.
- No Explicit Pricing Tiers: There are no clear “bronze,” “silver,” or “gold” tiers for conversion services mentioned, reinforcing the custom quote approach.
Recommendations for Potential Customers:
1. Request Detailed Quotes: Always request a comprehensive, itemized quote for any conversion or repair service.
2. Inquire About Turnaround Times: While discussing pricing, also inquire about typical turnaround times for services.
3. Confirm What’s Included: Ensure the quote clarifies what’s included e.g., specific filter type, calibration, return shipping.
4. Avoid Hidden Fees: Be vigilant and ask about any potential additional costs that might not be in the initial quote. Always ensure financial dealings are transparent and free from any hidden charges or interest, which are always best avoided.

Spencerscamera.com vs. Competitors

When evaluating Spencerscamera.com, it’s useful to compare it with its primary competitors in the highly specialized field of camera modification and astrophotography equipment.

Spencerscamera.com:

Strengths:
- Deep Niche Specialization: Uniquely positioned with a clear focus on astrophotography and infrared camera conversions. This specialization fosters deep expertise.
- Reputation Historical: The mention of “NASA Conversion Provider” from 2012 adds historical weight and credibility to their technical prowess.
- Value-Added Services: Offering workshops and remote post-processing assistance provides educational benefits beyond just equipment sales.
- Curated Product Selection: They stock specific, high-quality brands relevant to their niche.
Weaknesses:
- Less Transparent Pricing: For conversion services, pricing requires direct inquiry rather than upfront listing.
- Dated Website Design: The website’s aesthetic is functional but not as modern as some competitors.
- Limited General Photography Scope: Not a go-to for standard camera gear or mainstream photography needs.
- Customer Support during Closures: Stated periods of limited access due to workshops could be a concern for urgent inquiries.

Competitors:

Kolari Vision Direct Conversion Competitor:
- Strengths: Very strong reputation for high-quality IR/Full-Spectrum/Astro conversions. Excellent range of conversion types, filters, and modified cameras. Highly professional and modern website with more transparent pricing for many services. Offers unique filter solutions.
- Weaknesses: Also highly specialized, so not a general camera store. Pricing can be premium.
- Comparison: Kolari Vision often has a more polished online presence and clearer pricing structures, making them a very strong direct alternative, especially for IR conversions.
LifePixel Direct Conversion Competitor:
- Strengths: Another leading name in camera conversions IR, full spectrum, astro. Offers a wide variety of services and filter options. Generally good customer reviews. Often provides educational content on IR photography.
- Weaknesses: Similar to Kolari, they are specialized.
- Comparison: LifePixel is very much on par with Kolari Vision, offering similar services. Spencerscamera.com differentiates itself more with its emphasis on workshops and potential long-standing relationships with astrophotographers.
Adorama / B&H Photo Video Large Retailers with Astro Gear:
- Strengths: Massive inventory of all photography gear, including dedicated astrophotography cameras ZWO, QHY, telescopes, mounts, and filters. Competitive pricing, excellent return policies, and robust customer support. Fast shipping.
- Weaknesses: Do not offer camera conversion services themselves. You’d buy an unmodified camera and send it elsewhere for conversion. Less specialized advice for niche conversions.
- Comparison: These are for buying the unmodified camera bodies, lenses, and dedicated astro cameras. Spencerscamera.com steps in where these retailers stop – the modification service.
High Point Scientific / Astronomics Dedicated Astronomy Retailers:
- Strengths: Deep expertise in telescopes, mounts, and dedicated astrophotography cameras e.g., cooled CCD/CMOS cameras designed purely for astro. Highly knowledgeable staff. Wide range of astronomy accessories.
- Weaknesses: Do not perform camera conversions. Focus is solely on astronomy, not general photography.
- Comparison: These stores are excellent for building a dedicated astrophotography rig from scratch, focusing on telescopes and dedicated astro cameras. Spencerscamera.com focuses on converting DSLR/mirrorless cameras for astro use, which is a different approach to getting into the hobby.

Conclusion on Comparison:

Spencerscamera.com holds a unique position by combining specialized camera conversion services with educational workshops.

While competitors like Kolari Vision and LifePixel might offer more streamlined online experiences for conversions, Spencerscamera.com’s historical credibility NASA mention and direct emphasis on hands-on learning through workshops set it apart.

For those seeking comprehensive solutions from conversion to practical application, Spencerscamera.com offers a compelling, albeit niche, package.

However, for sheer breadth of equipment, the larger retailers are unbeatable, and for pure dedicated astro gear, the astronomy specialists shine.

Always prioritize transparent financial dealings, whether purchasing from Spencerscamera.com or any alternative, ensuring clarity on all costs and avoiding interest-based transactions.

Ethical Considerations and Alternatives for High-Value Purchases

When engaging in high-value purchases, especially for specialized equipment or services like those offered by Spencerscamera.com, it’s crucial to consider not just the technical aspects but also the ethical implications of the financial transactions involved. Avoiding practices that involve riba interest or gharar excessive uncertainty/speculation is paramount.

Financial Ethical Considerations:

Avoiding Interest-Based Debt Riba:
- Credit Cards: While convenient, carrying a balance on credit cards often incurs interest, which is riba and not permissible. Using credit cards only for transactions where you can pay the full balance immediately to avoid interest is the only permissible way.
- Loans: Taking out conventional loans for purchases that involve interest is also riba. This includes personal loans, and potentially even some “buy now, pay later” BNPL schemes if they carry interest or late fees that function as interest.
- Layaway/Installment Plans with caution: Some retailers offer installment plans directly. If these plans involve a fixed, known price with no additional interest charged for the installment privilege, they could be permissible. However, always scrutinize the terms carefully to ensure no hidden interest or penalties are present.
Avoiding Excessive Uncertainty Gharar:
- Custom Services: For services like camera conversions, it’s essential that the scope of work, timeline, and final price are as clear as possible before committing. Ambiguity can lead to disputes and gharar. Always get a written quote detailing what is included.
- Warranty and Guarantees: Clear terms regarding warranties on modifications or products are crucial. This reduces uncertainty about what happens if something goes wrong after the purchase.

Better Alternatives for High-Value Purchases:

Save and Pay Cash or equivalent:
- The Gold Standard: The most straightforward and ethically sound method is to save the full amount required for the equipment or service and pay upfront. This eliminates any debt, interest, or complex financial arrangements.
- Budgeting: Create a dedicated savings plan for your photography aspirations. Set a realistic goal and allocate funds regularly.
- Benefits: This fosters patience, discipline, and avoids financial entanglement, leading to peace of mind.
Halal Financing Options:
- Murabaha Cost-Plus-Profit Sale: In this structure, an ethical financial institution or lender buys the item you want from the seller and then sells it to you for a higher, pre-agreed price, payable in installments. The profit margin is fixed and known upfront, and there is no interest charged. This is a common and permissible alternative to interest-based loans.
- Ijara Leasing: This involves a permissible lease-to-own agreement, where you lease the equipment with the intention of owning it at the end of the term. The ownership is transferred upon completion of all payments.
- Takaful Islamic Insurance: While not for purchasing equipment, it’s an ethical alternative for protecting investments if conventional insurance has riba or gharar elements.
- Research is Key: Finding legitimate, sharia-compliant financial institutions can be challenging depending on your location, but they are increasingly available. Always verify their credentials and ensure their practices genuinely align with Islamic principles.
Bartering or Skill Exchange:
- If you have a skill or service that could be valuable to a seller or another individual who owns the equipment, consider a direct exchange. This is a classic form of ethical transaction.
Second-Hand Market with Caution:
- Purchasing used equipment can significantly reduce costs, making it more feasible to pay cash.
- Due Diligence: Always inspect the item thoroughly, ask for detailed photos/videos, and buy from reputable sellers with good feedback. For local transactions, meet in a safe public place. Ensure the transaction is direct and avoids any interest-bearing payment methods.
Rental Options:
- For occasional or project-specific needs, renting specialized camera equipment can be a highly cost-effective and debt-free alternative to purchasing. This allows you to use high-end gear without the significant upfront investment. Many professional camera rental houses offer this service.

By prioritizing ethical financial practices, you not only adhere to permissible guidelines but also build a stronger foundation for personal financial well-being, avoiding the pitfalls of debt and uncertainty.

Always inquire about all fees and terms, and if something feels ambiguous or involves interest, seek a permissible alternative.

Maintaining Your Modified Camera

Once you’ve invested in a specialized camera modification from a service like Spencerscamera.com, proper maintenance becomes even more critical to ensure its longevity and optimal performance, especially given the precision work involved.

Modified cameras, particularly those used for astrophotography or infrared, often operate in conditions that require extra care.

General Care for Modified Cameras:

Sensor Cleaning Extreme Caution:
- Why it’s Crucial: Modified sensors, especially those without the original low-pass filter, can be more prone to dust accumulation directly on the sensor. Dust spots are highly visible in long-exposure astrophotography.
- Professional Cleaning: If you’re unsure, always opt for professional sensor cleaning from a reputable service center. Given the modification, ensure they are aware it’s a modified sensor.
- DIY Cleaning Use with Caution: If you must clean it yourself, use proper sensor cleaning kits swabs, liquid solutions designed for this purpose. Never use compressed air directly on the sensor. Follow instructions meticulously. For astro-modified cameras, some users may find wet cleaning more effective due to the exposed sensor.
- Check with Spencer’s Camera: It’s highly advisable to check with Spencerscamera.com directly regarding their recommended sensor cleaning procedures for their modified cameras, as their specific modifications might have unique considerations.
Protection from Elements:
- Dust and Humidity: When shooting astrophotography, you’re often outdoors at night, exposed to dust, dew, and humidity. Keep your camera in a sealed, padded bag when not in use. Use desiccant packets in your camera bag if you live in a humid environment.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Rapid changes in temperature can lead to condensation inside the camera. Allow your camera to acclimate to ambient temperatures slowly before and after shooting in cold conditions.
- Rain/Moisture: Even if your camera is weather-sealed, modified cameras might have slight changes to their sealing. Use rain covers or shoot from protected areas in adverse weather.
Battery Management:
- Cold Weather Impact: Batteries drain faster in cold temperatures, which are common for astrophotography. Carry multiple spare batteries and keep them warm e.g., in an inside pocket until needed.
- External Power: For long astrophotography sessions, consider using an external power source e.g., a power bank with a dummy battery to avoid frequent battery changes.
Lens and Filter Care:
- Clean Optics: Keep your lenses and specialized astronomy/IR filters meticulously clean. Use a rocket blower, soft brush, and dedicated lens cleaning solutions/cloths.
- Filter Storage: Store filters in their cases to prevent scratches and dust accumulation.
Firmware Updates with caution:
- Consult Spencer’s Camera: Before updating your camera’s firmware, always consult with Spencerscamera.com. Some modifications might be sensitive to firmware changes, and an update could potentially affect the modification’s functionality or void any warranty provided by the modifier.
Regular Check-ups:
- If you notice any unusual behavior, image artifacts, or physical damage, consider sending the camera back to Spencerscamera.com for a professional check-up or repair, especially if it’s related to the modification.

By taking proactive and careful steps in maintaining your modified camera, you can significantly extend its lifespan and ensure it continues to deliver stunning astrophotography and infrared results.

Always prioritize gentle handling and, when in doubt, consult the experts who performed the modification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spencerscamera.com primarily known for?

Spencerscamera.com is primarily known for specializing in camera modifications for astrophotography and infrared photography, along with offering related specialized equipment and educational workshops.

Does Spencerscamera.com offer general camera repairs?

Yes, based on their website, Spencerscamera.com offers “Camera Repairs & Services” in addition to their specialized modification services.

Can I buy an already astro-modified camera from Spencerscamera.com?

Yes, Spencerscamera.com sells “Astro Modified Cameras,” meaning you can purchase cameras that have already undergone the necessary modifications.

What kind of workshops does Spencerscamera.com offer?

Spencerscamera.com offers “on location workshops” specializing in “Nightscape and Astrophotography.”

Does Spencerscamera.com provide post-processing support?

Yes, they offer “LIVE Remote Post Processing Tips & Instructions” with experts in Adobe Photoshop and PixInsight.

Is Spencerscamera.com a large general camera retailer?

No, Spencerscamera.com is a highly specialized online retailer and service provider, not a general camera retailer like Adorama or B&H Photo Video.

How do I get a price quote for a camera conversion from Spencerscamera.com?

Pricing for camera conversions is not explicitly listed on their main pages, suggesting you need to contact them directly via phone or email for a custom quote.

Does Spencerscamera.com have a physical location?

Yes, their website lists a physical address: Spencer’s Camera & Photo | 720 Grove Drive | Alpine, UT 84004.

What brands of products does Spencerscamera.com carry?

They carry brands relevant to their niche, such as ZWO, Benro, Calibrite, Shimoda, and ProGrade Digital, among others.

Does Spencerscamera.com mention any past high-profile clients?

Yes, their website mentions they were a “Camera Conversion Provider for NASA” from 2012, highlighting their historical technical capability.

What are “Infrared/Full Spectrum Conversions”?

These are services offered by Spencerscamera.com to modify a camera’s internal filters, allowing it to capture light outside the visible spectrum, specifically in the infrared range.

Are Spencerscamera.com’s workshops suitable for beginners?

While the website doesn’t explicitly state beginner-friendly, workshops generally cater to varying skill levels.

It’s best to inquire directly about the target audience for specific workshops.

How can I contact Spencerscamera.com for support or inquiries?

You can contact them by phone at 801 367-7569 or by email at [email protected].

Does Spencerscamera.com sell telescopes?

While they sell “Astronomy Filters” and accessories like the Benro Polaris Astro Tracker, their website does not explicitly list telescopes for sale.

Their focus is on camera modifications and accessories.

What is the “AA Filter Removal” mentioned on their site?

AA Filter Removal refers to the service of removing the camera’s Anti-Aliasing filter, which is often done for astrophotography to improve sharpness and sensitivity to faint light sources.

Does Spencerscamera.com offer international shipping for products or services?

The website does not explicitly state their international shipping policies.

It’s advisable to contact them directly to inquire about international orders and services.

What payment methods does Spencerscamera.com accept?

The website’s homepage doesn’t detail accepted payment methods. Typically, online stores accept major credit cards.

For ethical financial practices, it’s always best to pay upfront or seek permissible financing.

How long does a camera conversion typically take at Spencerscamera.com?

The website doesn’t provide typical turnaround times for conversions.

This information would likely be provided when requesting a quote or placing an order.

Does Spencerscamera.com provide a warranty on their camera conversion services?

The website’s homepage does not explicitly detail warranty information for their conversion services.

It’s crucial to inquire about their warranty policy when considering a conversion.

Are there any scheduled closures for Spencerscamera.com?

Yes, the website prominently displays notices about upcoming closures, such as for their annual Moab Astrophotography workshop, during which they may have limited access to communications.

Spencerscamera.com Reviews