The Infidex 176 V represents a groundbreaking initiative in the realm of analog photography, offering an accessible and innovative pathway to panoramic imaging. This open-source, 3D-printable camera, conceived by Russian photographer Denis Aminev, known as the creator behind Time to Waste, empowers enthusiasts to construct their own device for capturing wide-aspect ratio photographs on 35mm film. Its development underscores a burgeoning community's desire to preserve and evolve traditional photographic methods, providing a cost-effective alternative to vintage, high-end panoramic cameras like the XPan.
Denis Aminev's journey into crafting the Infidex 176 V was sparked by a profound appreciation for the cinematic aesthetic and expansive aspect ratios found in film, an experience he initially sought to replicate through digital cropping and anamorphic lenses, albeit without satisfaction. His pivotal moment arrived after encountering a video on the XPan, which catalyzed his venture into film photography basics. Starting in February 2024, Aminev successfully created a pinhole camera, which he found astonishing, realizing the potential of fundamental tools in image creation. This early success propelled him toward developing a full-fledged film camera, utilizing a repurposed lens from a Lomo Lubitel 166. Over several months, he meticulously refined his designs, culminating in the fifth revision of the Infidex 176 V by August 2024. Aminev's dedication to simplicity is a hallmark of his design philosophy; he envisions the Infidex 176 V as an elegant, light-tight mechanism that strips away complexity, embodying the essence of photography.
The camera's specifications reflect a thoughtful balance of classic film principles and modern fabrication techniques. It accommodates 135 (35mm) film, yielding 19 exposures from a standard 36-frame roll. Key features include zone focusing, the flexibility of interchangeable lenses, integrated dovetail slots for tripod mounting, and a meticulously engineered frame counter, winding shaft, and film pressure plate. The inherent lightweight nature of a 3D-printed device further enhances its appeal for photographers seeking portability without compromising on the distinctive panoramic format.
Jace LeRoy, a photographer with a robust background in cinematography and a deep passion for analog photography, is a prime example of the Infidex 176 V's impact. Like Aminev, LeRoy's photographic journey began early, evolving from a childhood Kodak Advantix to a temporary immersion in digital photography, which he later found creatively stifling. His re-engagement with analog processes, particularly through wet plate photography, rekindled his artistic fervor. LeRoy's experience with an XPan camera, though fulfilling, highlighted the significant financial barrier for many enthusiasts. The discovery of Aminev's open-source project provided an exciting solution, enabling him to construct his own panoramic camera using readily available 3D printing technology and a Mamiya C330 80mm f/2.8 lens. Despite initial skepticism regarding the integrity of a 3D-printed camera, LeRoy's successful build and the exceptional quality of his test shots affirmed the Infidex 176 V's capabilities. He sees this project not merely as a temporary fix but as a potential blueprint for the future of analog photography, ensuring its longevity as traditional cameras inevitably succumb to obsolescence.
The Infidex 176 V embodies a collaborative spirit within the photography community. Aminev's decision to make the design open-source, rather than commercialize pre-built units, cultivates a dedicated network of photographers who are passionate about the camera's development and usage. He actively encourages others to adapt and modify his designs, fostering innovation. For those encountering challenges during the construction process, Aminev extends an invitation for direct consultation, reinforcing the community-driven ethos of the project. Far from being a trivial pursuit, the creation of an Infidex 176 V is a rewarding endeavor for anyone with access to a 3D printer, promising to deepen their connection to the art of panoramic photography.