oshc activities
Photography Day / Pinhole Viewer

Pinhole Viewer

Children make a simple box viewer that projects an upside-down image through a tiny hole. A hands-on look at how cameras work.

How to run it

  1. Cut a square in one end of a box and cover with foil.
  2. Poke a small pinhole in the foil.
  3. Tape baking paper inside the other end as a screen.
  4. Point at a bright scene and look at the image.

You will need

  • shoebox or long box
  • aluminium foil
  • baking paper
  • tape
  • pin or skewer
Make it easier or harderPre-cut boxes for less experienced children; older children can test different hole sizes.
SafetyNever look directly at the sun, even through the viewer; educators poke the pinhole.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4Children test how light travels, building scientific understanding.

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