Photographer Built a Medium-Format Rangefinder, and So Can You (petapixel.com)

Photographer Albert Cornelissen has developed an innovative medium-format rangefinder camera called the MRF2, designed to provide high-quality photography without the exorbitant prices of established brands like Mamiya and Fujifilm. Utilizing the Mamiya Press lens system, the MRF2 combines traditional photography with modern technology through features like LiDAR-based focusing and custom microelectronics. Currently sold out, the fully assembled camera is available for $1,156, but the project is entirely open source, allowing anyone to access 3D-printable files and build their own version via Github. This initiative is significant for the DIY camera community, as it emphasizes collaboration, knowledge sharing, and open-source ethos. Cornelissen's work not only takes inspiration from the existing camera-making community but also represents a culmination of various design iterations aimed at making the construction process as user-friendly as possible. With advanced features such as dual OLED displays, the capability to shoot multiple film formats, and a light meter, the MRF2 enables photographers to capture stunning images while fostering a supportive environment for hobbyists to innovate and enhance their skills in camera building.