Watch a craftsman build a large format camera from scratch
Oct 16, 2017
John Aldred
John Aldred is a photographer with over 25 years of experience in the portrait and commercial worlds. He is based in Scotland and has been an early adopter – and occasional beta tester – of almost every digital imaging technology in that time. As well as his creative visual work, John uses 3D printing, electronics and programming to create his own photography and filmmaking tools and consults for a number of brands across the industry.
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And when we say from scratch, we are not kidding. This isn’t just ordering a bunch of components online and bolting them all together. Other than the lens and a few hinges, every piece on this camera is hand made. Right down to the perfectly hand ground glass.
The camera is the wonderful creation of very talented camera builder, Dieter Schneider. Whether you want to build your own camera or not, it’s a fascinating video to watch. The attention to detail, and ridiculously accurate workmanship is remarkable.
It’s rare that I watch a 35 minute YouTube video all the whole way through. Especially when nobody says a word throughout. But I couldn’t take my eyes off this one.
It’s fascinating to watch a camera being built, especially when so well done. I’ve always wanted to have a go at building one of my own. But, I know at the end of it all I’ll have is a pile of wood, and a lot of expense for nothing.
I’ll leave it up to the experts.
If you want to find out more about Dieter, his photography and his cameras, be sure to check out his website and follow his Facebook page.
John Aldred
John Aldred is a photographer with over 25 years of experience in the portrait and commercial worlds. He is based in Scotland and has been an early adopter – and occasional beta tester – of almost every digital imaging technology in that time. As well as his creative visual work, John uses 3D printing, electronics and programming to create his own photography and filmmaking tools and consults for a number of brands across the industry.
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4 responses to “Watch a craftsman build a large format camera from scratch”
Dario Mariano Javier
Wow. Thanks for the kind words, made my day :)
Thank You for publishing my video and the kind words :)
This is so interesting!