IMX585 Monochrome Sensor

What’s Included

• Sony IMX585 full-spectrum monochrome sensor module
  True black-and-white capture with excellent dynamic range and low-light performance

• Custom 3D-printed sensor mount
  Designed for compatibility with the Waist-Level Viewfinder Monochrome Camera platform and adaptable to custom enclosures

• C-mount adapter
  Compatible with vintage M42 lenses and modern C-mount optics

• Camera ribbon cable
  Raspberry Pi 5 compatible

Sample Images

Camera Software Platform (Included)

This module includes access to the same camera software platform used in the fully assembled camera and build kit. The software is provided as a pre-configured Raspberry Pi image and is designed to behave like a dedicated camera operating system — not a development interface.

• Utilizes the Sony Imx585 Starlight Eye driver designed by Will Whang

Software Features

Film Simulation Modes
In-camera monochrome looks inspired by classic black-and-white film stocks. The live preview reflects the selected look so composition and exposure remain intentional.

Aspect Ratio Selection
Compose using multiple aspect ratios including 3:2, 4:3, 1:1, 4:5, 16:9, and more. Framing updates instantly before capture.

Focus Peaking
Live focus peaking highlights areas of sharp focus, making manual focusing intuitive with vintage or adapted lenses.

Rangefinder Assist Mode
A center-focused visual aid inspired by classic rangefinder cameras, designed for deliberate manual focus workflows.

ISO Control
Select Auto ISO or fixed ISO values to maintain a consistent look or adapt to changing lighting conditions.

Shutter Speed Control
Use Auto Shutter or manually selected shutter speeds to control motion and exposure behavior.

Double Exposure Mode
Create layered images directly in-camera using a live overlay workflow inspired by classic film cameras.

RAW + JPG Capture
Each capture can be saved as both a processed JPEG and a full-resolution RAW (DNG) file for maximum post-processing flexibility.

What You’ll Need to Add

• Raspberry Pi 5

• Display module

• Camera body or enclosure

• Lens (C-mount or adapted M42)

• Power solution and wiring

• Basic tools and assembly hardware

This listing assumes familiarity with Raspberry Pi camera setups, manual assembly, and system configuration.

Features

• True monochrome sensor with increased sharpness and micro-detail

• Full-spectrum sensitivity for visible and infrared imaging

• Modular and hackable design for custom camera builds

• Purpose-built for experimentation and alternative camera workflows

Important Notes

• This is a sensor module kit, not a complete camera

• Assembly and software setup are required

• Intended for experienced builders and photographers

• Raspberry Pi, display, lens, and camera body are not included

If you’re building a monochrome camera from the ground up — or customizing an existing design — this sensor module is the foundation.

Licensing Terms

By purchasing and downloading the included software and design files, you agree to the following:

• Files and software are licensed for personal, non-commercial use only

• You may modify the files and software for your own projects

• You may not sell, redistribute, or upload the files publicly

• You may not manufacture or sell cameras or components derived from this design

• Attribution is required if you share images of modified parts based on this design

These terms ensure the project remains sustainable while still encouraging creativity and learning.

Who This Is For

• DIY camera builders and hardware enthusiasts

• Photographers seeking true monochrome capture

• Artists working in black-and-white or infrared imagery

• Educators and students building imaging systems

• Anyone who wants full control over their camera’s core

Sample Images (C-Mount TV Lenses)

Want to see what the IMX585 monochrome sensor looks like in real-world use?

This gallery features sample images captured with vintage C-mount TV lenses, showcasing the character, contrast, and sharpness you can expect from this sensor when paired with classic optics.

These examples highlight:

• true monochrome rendering (no Bayer filter)

• edge character and vignetting from C-mount glass

• tonal response in high-contrast scenes

• the natural, film-like look produced by simple lenses

• built in grainy film simulations

View sample images: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1pd-zxvWuhZ6wUxjeO-zhH7MobAVxBeBf?usp=sharing