3D printing is becoming more and more popular, and now one design graduate decided to create his own 3D printed camera. Called the OpenReflex, this 3D printed camera was created by Leo Marius.
The OpenReflex 3D printed camera is an SLR camera that will take standard 35mm film, and will work with just about any lens. Have a look at the photos below.
The OpenReflex is an Open-Source analog camera with a mirror Viewfinder and an awesome finger-activated mechanic shutter (running ~ 1/60°s). What’s more, it’s compatible with any photographic lens with a custom mount ring.
All the pieces are easily printable on a recent RepRap-like ABS 3D-printer without using support material! Everything should print in less than 15 hours, and anyone should be able to assemble it within 1 hour.
All parts are separate (Film receiver, Shutter, and Viewfinder) to simplify builds and modifications.
Innovative Design and Accessibility
The OpenReflex camera stands out not only because it is 3D printed but also due to its open-source nature. This means that anyone with access to a 3D printer can download the design files and create their own camera. This democratizes the process of camera manufacturing, making it accessible to hobbyists, students, and professionals alike. The design is particularly appealing to those who enjoy DIY projects and want to understand the mechanics of traditional photography.
The camera’s compatibility with any photographic lens, thanks to the custom mount ring, adds another layer of versatility. Users are not restricted to a specific brand or type of lens, allowing for a wide range of photographic possibilities. This feature is particularly beneficial for photographers who already own various lenses and want to experiment with a new, innovative camera body.
Technical Specifications and User Experience
The OpenReflex camera features a mirror viewfinder, which is a staple in traditional SLR cameras. This allows photographers to see exactly what the lens sees, providing a more accurate framing and focusing experience. The finger-activated mechanical shutter, running at approximately 1/60th of a second, offers a tactile and responsive shooting experience, reminiscent of classic film cameras.
One of the most impressive aspects of the OpenReflex is its ease of assembly. According to Leo Marius, all parts can be printed in less than 15 hours, and the assembly process should take no more than an hour. This makes it an ideal project for weekend DIY enthusiasts or educational settings where students can learn about both 3D printing and camera mechanics.
The modular design, with separate parts for the film receiver, shutter, and viewfinder, simplifies the building process and allows for easy modifications. This means that users can customize their cameras to better suit their needs or even experiment with new features and improvements.
You can find out more details about the OpenReflex 3D printed camera over at Instructables.
Source Gizmodo
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