# DIY Film Digitizers The Kinograph Digitize Film on the Cheap By Alexander Lam | Published 2013-06-25 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-kinograph References: [creativeapplications.net](http://www.creativeapplications.net/processing/kinograph-affordable-and-scaleable-film-digitisation/) & [mepler](http://mepler.com/Kinograph) Making the [film digitization process](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vhs-tapes-to-digital) affordable, Matthew Epler created the Kinograph. Since the process of transforming film into a digital format is prohibitively expensive, Epler was inspired to find a better way. His project uses parts that are easily found or created in order to convert film-based media into a virtual file. While current machines currently cost over a $100,000, the Kinograph only costs $3,200 to create. Epler created the incredibly affordable machine by using [open source technology](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/project-scribe) and a relatively cheap camera. With just a [DSLR camera](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pgytech-retrova), some 3D-printed parts,and a few extra pieces,the Kinograph can capture high quality sound and visuals. In addition to being cheap, the machine is also versatile. It can take 35, 16 and 8mm size film so that you can convert anything. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.0/10 - Popularity: 34% | Activity: 19% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## 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 - **Affordable Film Digitization:** Creating cost-effective solutions for film digitization, such as the Kinograph, opens up opportunities for individuals and businesses to access and preserve analog media. - **Open Source Tech in Film Digitization:** Incorporating open source technology, like in the Kinograph, allows for collaborative development and customization of film digitization tools, inspiring innovation in the industry. - **Versatile Film Conversion Tools:** Developing versatile film conversion machines, such as the Kinograph, enables the conversion of various film sizes and formats, providing flexibility to meet different needs in the market. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Film Restoration and Archiving:** The cost-effective film digitization solutions, like the Kinograph, create opportunities for film restoration and archiving companies to provide affordable services to clients. - **Photography and Filmmaking Equipment:** Integrating open source tech, as seen in the Kinograph, into photography and filmmaking equipment can revolutionize the industry by providing affordable and accessible tools for creators. - **Home Entertainment Systems:** The development of versatile film conversion machines, like the Kinograph, can enhance the capabilities of home entertainment systems by allowing users to easily convert and enjoy analog media. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sleek Digital Film Scanners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/slide-n-scan.md) - [Digital Film Rolls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/im-back-film.md) - [Digital-to-Analog Photo Printers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jollylook-eye.md) - [Modernized Video Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kodak-super-8-camera.md) - [App-Connected Upcycled Film Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/digi-swap.md) - [Affordable 3D Scanners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/affordable-3d-scanners.md) - [Physical Camera Photography Films](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kodak-kodacolor-film.md) - [Analog Photo Simulators](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vint.md) - [Nostalgic Digital Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cs8.md)