Coming Soon…

Version Zero 4x5:

An Open Source, Accessible, and High-Quality 4x5 Camera

The idea of this camera is affordability, ease of parts sourcing, and ultimate customizability for hardware and movements. If one prints the files themselves, makes their own bellows (I will release laser cutting and print bellows template files, and make a standalone video on bellows design and building), the goal is for the camera (front, back, bellows, and ground glass + basic inserts) to cost around $50-75. I am also working on some simple DIY lens designs and hoping that all in, one could make a working high quality 4x5 camera for $100-200.

Ultimate customizability is the goal. This design features a rotating back, a 4-point lens mount lock, and notches for my preferred hardware configuration. The movements and main structure of the camera are outsourced to more robust and affordable metal parts, mainly various arca Swiss rails, clamps, and other tripod/ lighting supports. So, the camera itself is just a front and rear, attached to bellows, and populated with 1/4-20 threads and cold shoe mounts all around (the threads you see around the body are 3d printed 3/8 inch threads, which are populated with 1/4-20 camera adapter inserts, making the final threads strong steel inserts). My primary version, which is a couple of arca rails for the 80mm-300mm bellows draw, an arca L-bracket for back rise/fall, and shift, and then a small pan tilt head on the front for focus shifts is around $100. But it can be as simple as just one arca clamp, rail, and a simple flash l bracket, around $25 (seen on the enlarger version above which is also in the works and will be an addition that can fit the existing camera back!)

The camera is small, and my standard hardware configuration is setup for a ready to use hybrid rail camera style measuring 8 inches wide, 5 inches thick, and 10 inches tall, with a 135mm lens attached, ready to shoot in seconds; but I can imagine many other possibilities including some folding field camera ideas.

For those uninterested in DIYing everything. The final camera will be compatible with linhof replacement bellows, linhof lens boards, and all standard sized replacement focusing screens. Increasing the cost, but letting folks use what they like and lowering the DIY barrier of entry.

The STL and Bellows Template files will be released for free here on my website! I am hoping to release files along with a full-length tutorial on building the camera by the end of May 2025 (Subscribe to my YouTube channel: richpence to get notified when this video gets uploaded!)

Limited Pre-Built Camera Commissions

Due to interest, and knowing that many are just not DIY people, I am considering opening up first-come first-served pre-built camera commissions over the summer and am setting up this sign-up to gauge interest (knowing if I should buy some bigger 3d printers) This is different from my regular site mailing list, and as I am able to make a camera, I will reach out to the next email on this list and ask if you are still interested in buying a pre-built camera.

I cannot sell the camera movement hardware, which are already readily available products, so what you would get is a rear standard with rotating spring back & ground glass, a front standard with 4-point lens board lock, all permanently attached to a set of bellows and fully populated with 1/4-20 inserts.

What you will need to provide: A lens, Film Holders, and the movement structure of your choice (I will provide several options, ranging from most basic at $20 to my standard version at around $100)

I am still considering pricing, which may change, but right now looking at $250 for a standard camera body in select colors. And would offer additions, like custom lens boards, braided handles, and custom colors for an upcharge.

Feel free to add your email to the sign up below if you are interested!