BouDIY® Prism and Lensbaby Demo: 

This behind-the-scenes demo walks you through how to use prisms, crystal filters, diffraction sheets, DIY hacks, and Lensbaby lenses to create in-camera effects that amplify mood, enhance lighting, and add that signature “wow” factor. You’ll get a hands-on look at each tool, what kind of light it works best with, and how to combine them for endless emotional variation—without relying on post-processing.

Key Creative Tools and How to Use Them

1. Lensbaby® Prism Filter Systems (Hands-Free Option)
Using magnetic prism filters on a lens-mounted ring allows you to attach different prisms and crystals for creative effects. Options include pointy crystals, rainbow filters, and stretch glass. Each creates a unique light refraction that shifts depending on your light source and shooting angle. These are great for shooting hands-free with 35mm, 50mm, or 85mm lenses.

2. Crystal Types and Their Effects

• Pointy crystal: adds flares and reflections based on spin and angle
• Stretch glass: elongates light sources for a glowing drag effect
• Cookie-cutter glass: creates patterned breaks or geometric light distortion
• Rainbow diffraction plastic: throws subtle rainbow patterns across the frame
• Iridescent sheets: soften or break highlights into dreamy overlays
• Each tool behaves differently depending on how diffused your light source is

3. Colored Light Gels and Filters
Many color filter packs include simple red, yellow, blue, and purple sheets that can tint light or overlay color flares. These are optional but can be used creatively with gelled lights or in front of the lens to stack effects. You don’t need special gear—cheap flash gels or cut plastic sheets will work just fine.

4. Fractals (Brass Knuckle Style)
These handheld crystal tools are often shaped like rings or knuckles for easy positioning. They refract light and subjects into double vision or multi-image effects, especially dramatic when shooting video or up close. Effects vary by shape and layering them with other filters adds texture and movement.

5. Cheap DIY Alternatives That Actually Work
Chandelier pieces, napkin rings, cut glass trinkets, and even sun-catcher stickers can create the same style of refractions and flares as expensive prisms. Kaleidoscope lenses (from kids’ glasses) and iridescent cellophane also create psychedelic or dreamy effects when placed in front of the lens. You can use Christmas ornaments, holographic plastic, or anything that bends or distorts light.

6. Lensbaby and Tilt Lenses
Lensbaby gear offers a variety of distortion-focused lenses that shift focus, bend light, and enhance dreamlike blur. These effects are difficult to replicate in post and can be layered with crystals or prisms. They are manual-focus lenses that reward experimentation and are best used when you're comfortable with slower, more intentional shooting.

7. Diffused Light = Softer Effects
Most of the tools in this demo behave differently under soft light vs. harsh light. The more diffused the source (like a softbox or overcast day), the more subtle and ethereal the result. Direct light creates sharp flares and bolder rainbow or reflection effects. Learning to pair the right tool with the right lighting setup is what gives these modifiers power.

8. Stacking Effects for Infinite Looks
You’re not limited to using just one tool. Crystals, color gels, and filters can be combined on the same mount or hand-held in layers. That means with just a few pieces, you can create dozens of distinct looks and moods depending on light, angle, and subject.

If you’re on a budget or love to DIY, this training gives you a ton of options to build your own effects toolkit. These aren’t just gimmicks—they’re real tools that allow you to create in-camera magic that feels authentic and emotive. The key is to experiment, shoot through everything, and train your eye to see how light behaves.

Links To Items Used

Click the item you want to be redirected to the purchase page on amazon.

• Lensbaby Omni System
• Lensbaby Extension pack
• Fractals
• Napkin ring
• Kaleidoscope glasses
• Suncatcher (rainbow)
• Star filter
• Crystal Prisms

Since You’re Here… You Might Love These To

If you’re vibing with the DIY Demo, there’s a good chance you’ll want to check out these other resources too. Whether you’re ready to dive deeper or just want a shortcut to high-impact effects, these are solid next steps.

Classic & Neon Overlay Packs

For those who want polished, ready-to-go overlays without making their own. Includes dreamy film vibes, neon bursts, and creative elements that give your work instant flair in Photoshop.

{Click Here to See Overlays In Action} 

Uncensored Membership

Get access to 12 full DIY courses that take you behind the scenes of my most iconic builds, lighting setups, and camera tricks. From rain rooms to outdoor tricks—it’s all inside.

{Click to Learn More about what's included with membership.}