# Sophisticated DIY Cameras 'The Focal Camera' Teaches Anyone to Make an Advanced Cameras By Cadhla Gray | Published 2015-08-19 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/focal-camera References: [petapixel](http://petapixel.com/2015/08/17/the-focal-camera-an-open-source-modular-camera/) & [focalcamera](http://www.focalcamera.com/) Dutch artist Mathijs van Oosterhaudt originally created 'The Focal Camera' prototypes to lead people through DIY workshops. However, he decided that he wanted to share the knowledge of how to create affordable advanced cameras to aspiring photographers for free. With this intention, he published his designs on The Focal Camera website, teaching visitors how to create an [open-modular camera system](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/analogue-af1). With a simple cube base as a starting point, things like a [pinhole or ground glass camera](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wooden-sony) can then be built. The cameras need a three-millimeter thick material like wood, a laser cutter, black paint and tape. The steps can even guide the maker through an SLR, panoramic or stereo camera. DIY designs for various technology is rising, especially with the dawn of the 3D printer, fortunately making expensive gadgets within reach of more and more people. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.7/10 - Popularity: 66% | Activity: 66% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Photography](https://www.trendhunter.com/photography) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Sophisticated DIY Cameras:** Teaching users how to create affordable advanced cameras with a DIY open-modular system. - **Open-modular Camera Systems:** The rise of DIY designs for technology and the potential for customization of camera systems. - **3D Printing:** An increasing trend in DIY technology that enables cost-efficient gadget production. ### Who This Affects Most - **Photography:** Opportunities for innovation in affordable, customizable professional camera systems. - **Manufacturing:** The growing market for 3D printing and the potential for new materials in DIY gadget production. - **Education:** Innovative workshop opportunities using open-modular DIY camera systems. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Modular Point-and-Shoot Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modular-camera.md) - [Functional Gingerbread Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gingerbread-camera.md) - [Functional Building Block Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lego-zh1.md) - [Eco-Friendly Film Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lensfayre.md) - [Translucent Pocket Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clearcam.md) - [Eco-Friendly Paper Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paper-camera.md) - [Sleek Analog Film Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lomoapparat.md) - [Tactile Digital Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/camera-1.md) - [Y2K Style Digital Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/manual-holo.md)