DIY cameras are all over the industry. Challenging to create, but certainly the most cost-effective way to produce unique images, many are turning to it in a saturated camera market. One of the popular formats so far has been panoramic cameras, which are now rising in demand. After Denis Aminev’s version of a new panoramic camera, we have come across a new 6×17 film-style camera that can shoot various formats. Have a look.
All images are courtesy of Vaslily Ovsyankin and used with permission.
First spotted on Reddit’s R/AnalogCommunity, the Fat Shot X Multiformat camera is designed by Vaslily Ovsyankin, who goes by the handle Flasheek. He is a functional architect at a company that deploys and supports a custom warehouse management system software. Ovsyankin says the camera shoots 6×17, 6×14, 6×12, 6×9, and 6×6 formats via removable masks. It also uses large-format lenses with a focal distance of 74mm or longer. In addition, the device pairs itself with M65 or M77 helicoid adapters for precise focusing.
shoots 6×17, 6×14, 6×12, 6×9, and 6×6 formats via removable masks. Designed by Flasheek, the camera uses large-format lenses with a focal distance of 74mm or longer. In addition, the device pairs itself with M65 or M77 helicoid adapters for precise focusing.
What’s more interesting is that the device is open-source, which means one can easily print it on a 3D printer and credit the creator when posting it.
A Modular Approach And Flexibility
The device has three elements: a lens cone, a detachable cassette that has a film transport system, and a removable focusing screen.
Per Ovsyankin, the cassette and focusing screen allow 15mm rise and 7mm fall movements to correct the perspective. The cone can be generated parametrically in Fusion 360, allowing photographers to design the cone based on the large-format lens they are using. This means one can utilize various lenses, which was not possible with cameras such as the Fuji GX617.
The normal 6×17 cameras force you to use one negative size, largely a 120 type film, but with the Fat Shot X, you can use five formats:
- 6×17 (4 exposures per roll)
- 6×14 (5 exposures)
- 6×12 (6 exposures)
- 6×9 (8 exposures)
- 6×6 (12 exposures)
The masks slide into rails inside the cassette and click into place. A five-position toggle switch on top helps you keep track of frame numbers on the backing paper.
In many ways, the Fat Shot X is a cost-effective approach to cameras such as Linhof Technorama 617, Fuji GX617, Shen Hao 617, and Horseman SW617. These cameras are not easy to find, but when you do get them, they are far pricier than building your own camera.
Why is it Important for Photographers
Panoramic film photography has always been a favorite genre of many landscape photographers, but the limited tools have led many to switch to other options. For instance, stitching the images in post-production. However, this project offers a plethora of features. The body is significantly lightweight, and one can use multiple lenses and formats with just one body.
There is also the joy of making a camera from scratch, which lets you spend on film rather than on an industry-standard camera. The project also makes one rethink their approach to panoramic photography or large format cameras. Overall, it invites photographers to take the lead in the creation of the images, and that can be really liberating.