Last Updated on 04/14/2026 by Chris Gampat
Film photography has always been loved, but with the invention of digital, film cameras took a back seat. As more and more people want a hybrid device, I’m Back, a brand based in Switzerland, has been trying to get just that. After achieving immense success, the company is now working on a new idea which you can support on Kickstarter. Have a look.
According to Leica Rumors, the company has introduced the I’m Back APS-C Roll, which helps one to turn 35mm film cameras into a digital device. The project is in the works with Samuel Mello Medeiros and Filippo Nishino, both of whom have a goal of reaching just over $44,000 to get production rolling. So far, they have 985 backers, and have already raised over $550,000.
The Kickstarter page notes that one can utilize the APS-C roll on any vintage Leica, Nikon, Canon, Pentax, or Minolta, as it replaces the film in your camera’s film compartment with a custom-engineered module. At the center, you instead get a Sony sensor chip, which is largely used in astronomy cameras for its low noise and high dynamic range. Here’s a quick look at the specs:
- Sensor: Sony IMX571 APS-C CMOS, 26.1MP
- Image formats: RAW and JPEG
- Video: 4K
- Storage: Internal SSD — available in 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB configurations
- Connectivity: Bluetooth synchronization + Wi-Fi image transfer
- Design: All-inside — no external screen, no external cables
- Trigger: Small Bluetooth remote control for shutter synchronization
- Build: CNC-machined aluminum housing
- Film simulations: Presets inspired by Fujifilm, Kodachrome, Yashica, and Ilford; additional simulations as stretch goal
- Compatibility: Most 35mm film cameras (Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Minolta, Contax, Yashica, Olympus, Leica). Most cameras will only require removing the film pressure plate to make space for the conversion kit
- Special compatibility: I’m Back is also working on solutions for Leica M cameras and underwater housings for models like the Nikonos
The steps for this are quite simple too. Once loaded into the camera, you have to align the sensor with the gate, and then shoot the image. You have to advance the film lever to arm the shutter mechanism, then use a small Bluetooth remote to synchronize and trigger the shot. The unit lacks a screen, so the best way to transfer the photo is Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Moreover, one can always go back to shooting analogue after they remove the digital film.
Before this, the company was using MFT sensor, which offered 2x crop. So the ideal way was to cut it in half. However, those wondering about the lack of a full frame have to remember that the sensor will interfere with the focal plane, and make focusing quite a task.
One can get the kit at $499 for the early bird pack, at $599 for the master kit and at $999 for twin-roll pack. The company states that they are on Kickstarter to fund the money for elements that will go into the creation of the sensor. I’m Back has been doing a great job so far, so if you are someone who wants to buy a hybrid camera, this is worth the price.