2 min read

12:1 Scale Working "Polar"oid Camera

V1.0 - Feb 2024 - for BriteWinter 2024

12:1 Scale model replica of the first plastic Polaroid (R) cameras from the early seventies. The camera is functional, powered by a Canon DSLR and Mac Mini computer, external flash, a button, "view-finders" and other interactive features. This model "prints" its photos to a TV screen using OpenCV computer vision software where they fade into view for the audience.

This piece was made for BriteWinter and debuted in 2024. The core crew that created the camera: Sam Harmon (sensor/button), John K (carpentry/design), Ian K-M (hardware/testing), Tom Stoll (lead/software), Gabe Smith (carpentry/design/wood CNC), Shannon ? (painting). The build project was sponsored by and supported by the Ingenuity Festival, the Ingeneers, and Makers' Alliance.

Testing the output & painting the stripes.
Building the hardware into the case

Specs & Parameters

  • Camera: Canon EOS Rebel t1i DSLR Camera
  • Computer: Mac Mini (2015)
  • Screen: 55 inch flat panel display
  • Flash: Canon external 430 Speedlight flash system
  • Operates in daytime and at night with software adjustments.
  • Dimensions: W: 4', L: 8', H : 5'
  • Requires: flat surface, lifting help, power, WIFI (optional)
  • Versions: 2
    • build version 1 (2/24)
    • version 2: hardware 2.0, wireless control, auto-upload features (due 9/24)
A photo sharpens as it "develops".
From the camera's view.
"It's not light."

TMS