WLV-01 HQ - Color Digital Waist Level Camera

WLV-01 HQ — Open Architecture Camera Platform

A camera for those who believe photography is a craft, not just a result. Every WLV-01 HQ is hand-built in Winnipeg and individually tested once your order is placed.

Built around a Raspberry Pi 5 and the Raspberry Pi HQ Camera, the WLV-01 HQ delivers rich, natural color images through a deliberately simple, manual first shooting experience — with carefully tuned monochrome film simulations built in for those drawn to black-and-white work.

This is your entry point to the WLV platform. The modular chassis, single-file software architecture, and shared accessory system mean your camera can grow as you do — upgrade the sensor to the full-spectrum IMX585 monochrome module, add new viewfinders, or modify the 3D-printed body to make it your own. You're not buying a product. You're joining a platform.

Officially Powered by Raspberry Pi.

Key Features

Open Camera Platform Built around the Raspberry Pi 5. Modular internal layout designed for future upgrades. Designed to grow with the platform as new sensors, features, and accessories are introduced. User guide with full walkthrough included.

Raspberry Pi HQ Camera Sensor Rich, natural color imaging with balanced tonal response. Excellent compatibility with vintage and experimental lenses. Versatile performance for everyday photography and creative exploration. Color capture is standard, with optional in camera monochrome film simulations for those drawn to black and white work.

Modular Hardware Design 3D printed body with an open, serviceable layout. Replaceable sensor module and mounting plates, so you can swap into the full spectrum IMX585 monochrome module when you're ready to grow with the platform. Standard C-mount lens system with M42 compatibility. Designed for repair, upgrades, and experimentation. Battery plate with removable 18650 power system.

Powerful Raspberry Pi 5 Core Responsive live preview. Physical controls with minimal interface friction. Built in Wi-Fi for updates and wireless transfers. Expandable storage via SD card and USB. Optimized for stability and clarity rather than feature overload.

Intuitive Camera Controls Live preview with manual focus aids. Physical button-driven interface. Adjustable ISO and shutter behavior. Simple, deliberate capture workflow. Designed to stay out of the way while you shoot.

Built-In Monochrome Film Simulations Shoot color images or apply carefully tuned monochrome looks inspired by classic black-and-white film stocks. Film simulations are applied in camera, so the preview closely reflects the final image.

Core Camera Software Features

Aspect Ratio Selection — Compose using multiple aspect ratios including 3:2, 4:3, 1:1, 4:5, and 16:9. The live preview updates instantly for intentional framing.

Focus Peaking — A live focus peaking overlay highlights areas in sharp focus, making manual focusing fast and intuitive, especially with vintage lenses.

Rangefinder Simulation Focus Mode — A dedicated focusing mode inspired by classic rangefinder cameras.

ISO Control — Choose between Auto ISO or fixed ISO values depending on your shooting style.

Shutter Control — Use Auto Shutter or manually select shutter speeds to control motion and exposure.

RAW and JPG Capture — Save each image as a processed JPG with your selected film look, plus a full-resolution RAW DNG file for post-processing.

Portable and Field Ready Integrated Geekworm X1200 UPS module. Replaceable 18650 batteries for extended shooting. USB-C charging support.

Platform Roadmap Included With Purchase Ongoing firmware updates. Expanded film simulation packs. Modular accessories and future sensor options — including the path to upgrade to the full spectrum IMX585 monochrome sensor when you're ready.

Who This Camera Is For Photographers who value process over automation. Makers and creatives curious about imaging systems. Anyone new to the WLV platform looking for a considered, affordable entry point. Photographers who want a camera that grows with them over time.

What's Included Fully assembled WLV-01 HQ camera. Raspberry Pi HQ Camera sensor. Raspberry Pi 5 and charger. C-mount adapter. Waveshare display. Geekworm X1200 battery system. Pre-loaded software and quick start guide.

Lens is not included. Batteries are not included.

Recommended Batteries LG HG2 3000mAh 35A 18650. Panasonic NCR18650B.

Unprotected 18650 batteries only.