Monochrome Waist Level Camera - WLV-01

**Production time is 4-6 weeks when out of stock**

Additional stock arriving Feb 1st

Full-Spectrum Monochrome Digital Camera

A camera built for those who still believe photography is a craft. Each camera is hand-built and individually tested once your order is placed.

This is not a mass-produced device or a spec-sheet showoff.
It’s a hand-built, open-architecture camera designed for photographers who want freedom, intention, and creative control.

Powered by a Raspberry Pi 5 and a full-spectrum monochrome IMX585 sensor, it captures pure black-and-white images with exceptional detail, dynamic range, and light sensitivity — from visible light through the near-infrared spectrum.

Every part of the camera is modular and designed to evolve. This is a platform, not a closed product.

Key Features

True Monochrome Imaging

• 8MP monochrome sensor with no color filter array

• Increased sharpness, contrast, and micro-detail

• Full-spectrum sensitivity including near-infrared

• Clean high-ISO performance for low-light and night photography

User Guide with full walkthrough

Modular Hardware Design

• 3D-printed body with an open, customizable layout

• Replaceable sensor module and mounting plates

• 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

• Fast CPU and GPU for responsive live preview

• Built-in Wi-Fi for wireless transfers and updates

• Expandable storage via SD card and USB

• Community-driven firmware updates and long-term support

Intuitive Camera Controls

• Live preview with manual focus aids

• Physical button-driven interface

• Adjustable ISO and shutter behavior

• Simple, deliberate capture workflow — no menus in the way

Built-In Film Simulations

Shoot with carefully tuned monochrome looks inspired by classic black-and-white film stocks:

• Delta-style clean contrast

• HP5-inspired punch and grain

• Tri-X-style grit and character

• Optional cool-toned monochrome looks

Film simulations are applied in-camera so your preview closely matches the final image.

Advanced Camera Software Features

Aspect Ratio Selection
Compose in-camera using multiple aspect ratios including 3:2, 4:3, 1:1, 4:5, 16:9, and more. The live preview updates instantly so framing is intentional and precise.

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

Rangefinder Assist Mode
A dedicated focusing mode inspired by classic rangefinder cameras. When enabled, the display simplifies to help you focus with clarity and intention.

ISO Control
Choose between Auto ISO or fixed ISO values to lock in your desired look across lighting conditions.

Shutter Speed Control
Use Auto Shutter or manually select shutter speeds for creative control over motion and exposure.

Double Exposure Mode
Create layered images directly in-camera. Capture the first exposure, then compose the second using a live overlay before saving the combined image.

RAW + JPG Capture
Every photo can be saved as both:

• a processed JPEG with your selected film look

• a full-resolution RAW (DNG) file for post-processing

Portable and Long-Lasting

• Integrated Geekworm X1200 UPS module

• Replaceable 18650 batteries for extended shooting

• USB-C charging support

• Designed for field use and long sessions

Open-Architecture DNA

• Custom camera interface and logic

• Designed to be explored, modified, and extended

• Build new modes, overlays, or workflows as the platform evolves

Platform Roadmap (Included with Purchase)

• Ongoing firmware updates

• Expanded film simulation packs

• Modular accessories and body upgrades

Who This Camera Is For

• Photographers who want a deeply personal tool

• Makers and hackers curious about imaging systems

• Artists drawn to the character of black-and-white

• Anyone who wants a camera that continues to grow over time

What’s Included

• Fully assembled camera

• Full-spectrum monochrome 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

**Batteries must be unprotected 18650 batteries**

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