Cameraframe is a piece of wall art made from real camera parts

As much as we like to see cameras working and shooting images, they sometimes just die beyond repair. And when cameras become useless, what can you do? Well, for one Italian company, you can turn them into attractive wall art. Cameraframe is a company that’s turning digital and film cameras into interesting and unique wall art pieces by dismantling them and arranging them inside a frame.

Each piece is a one-of-a-kind piece of art which the company says “combines function and form in a truly unique way”. Unique, yes. Function? I’m not so sure it has much of that in its dismantled state. They do look pretty cool, though. The company has taken to Kickstarter to launch the digital Cameraframe V1 and the analogue Cameraframe V2.

Cameraframe – More than the sum of its parts?

Every Cameraframe contains all the components from a disassembled camera, including the sensor, shutter, top cover, mainboard, other electronics boards and mechanical parts. Each comes with its own illustrated board with the components laid out around its surface. This is then encompassed in a frame to mount on your wall and show off to your visitors – something which Cameraframe actively encourages.

But this is more than just a pretty object – it’s a conversation starter. Imagine the awe and curiosity of your friends and family as they examine the various parts and try to guess their functions. You’ll be the envy of all your photography-loving friends, and the pride of any room you choose to display it in.

– Cameraframe

The Cameraframe is made from a variety of materials, including high-quality woods, metal and plastic. The company says the combination of materials is chosen to provide a perfect balance between strength and beauty. Each is hand made, and the camera parts are chosen and arranged in a way that best shows off their own beauty and functionality, the company says.

An old idea modernised with a QR code

As good as they look, this isn’t an entirely new concept. There are a number of listings for dismantled cameras in frames on sites like Etsy, and the idea isn’t just limited to cameras, either. There are also some great retro-tech ones out there! But Cameraframe’s offering does look quite interesting with a unique aesthetic. And each Cameraframe contains a QR code which can be scanned to see a 3D representation of your frame and learn more information about components in the frame, including their function and how they contribute to the design.

Unfortunately, you’re limited to the cameras they provide. You cannot send them your old camera to make a frame from. This is a shame, but it’s somewhat understandable. Sending your camera to Italy, for them then to dismantle and research all of the components and finally send it back to you is not going to be quick, easy or cheap. It also doesn’t look like you can pick from the models they may have available to hand, either. You’re just going to get what you’re given.

Price and Availability

At the moment, Cameraframe is launching through Kickstarter with pledges starting at €299 (~$320). There are two versions of the Cameraframe available. Cameraframe V1 is a dismantled digital camera while Cameraframe V2 is a dismantled film camera. You’re able to get one of each with pledges for a pair starting at €539 ($575). You can find out more on the Cameraframe website.