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# 3D-Printed SLR Cameras
'OpenReflex' is a 3D-Printed SLR Camera

By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2013-07-12 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/openreflex
References: [gadgetsin](http://gadgetsin.com/make-your-own-3d-printed-slr-camera.htm) & [instructables](http://www.instructables.com/id/3D-Printed-Camera-OpenReflex/)

Instructables user 'Bozardeux' created instructions on how to create the 'OpenReflex' [3D-printed camera](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heygears1). The camera's components can be printed on an ABS 3D-printer in less than 15 hours and assembled in about an hour.

Assembly of the OpenReflex requires simple tools like a glass cutter, screwdriver and an Allen key and a few other parts that are easy enough to pick up at a hardware store.

This DIY approach to photography could enable photographers to [completely customize their cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modular-camera) and continually build onto them to create new attachments as the need arises. Bozardeux encourages anyone to download the design, improve upon it and share again. This [open-source design](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/project-scribe) is an incredible way for crafty individuals to completely build their own camera from scratch. And for new photographers, assembling the 'OpenReflex' is a great way to learn how cameras work.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 5.9/10
- Popularity: 80% | Activity: 88% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Customizable Cameras:** The DIY approach to photography with 3D-printed cameras enables photographers to completely customize their cameras for their specific needs.
- **Open-source Design:** The open-source design of 3D-printed cameras encourages collaboration and improvement, allowing crafty individuals to continually build and share their own camera designs.
- **Learning Through Assembly:** Assembling 3D-printed cameras like the 'OpenReflex' is a great way for new photographers to learn how cameras work and gain hands-on experience.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Photography:** The DIY approach and customization options of 3D-printed cameras present disruptive innovation opportunities for the photography industry, allowing for more personalized and unique camera designs.
- **3D Printing:** The development of 3D-printed cameras showcases the potential of 3D printing technology in the manufacturing of consumer products, opening up new possibilities for the 3D printing industry.
- **Education:** The use of 3D-printed cameras as educational tools provides opportunities for schools and learning institutions to incorporate hands-on learning experiences in photography and technology.

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