If you want to take timelapses, digital long exposure photographies or solargraphy images, you need to put a battery-powered camera out in the wild. This is a kit to assemble a digital solargraphy camera consisting of an add-on board to control a Raspberry Pi Zero Linux Computer with a 12MP HQ camera module in a 3d-printed weatherproof enclosure.

Find more info on the project page: Digital Solargraphy

Part of the kit:

• the CompressorCamera-board to control your pi
• ND64 neutral density filter
• 3d-printed enclosure
• Raspberry Pi Zero camera cable
• 18650 battery holder for 2 batteries
• Micro-SD card (32GB, pre-loaded with the software)
• all required fasteners and some spares

Whats you need to buy separately:

• Raspberry Pi Zero W (without headers)
• Raspberry Pi Zero HQ camera module
• C or CS-Mount Lens (see lens size for more info)
• two 18650 Lithium-Ion batteries (and a charger)
• metric Allen keys (sizes: 1.5/2/2.5)
• a tripod or zip ties

These parts are not included in the kit since buying them in bulk is either not possible (Raspberry Pi Zero), they are complicated to ship internationally (Lithium-Ion batteries) or there is a high chance you already own them (Allen keys). For recommendations where to buy, see the buyers guide.

No soldering is necessary.

Assembly:

You can find the complete assembly guide here: Assembly Guide. Make sure to check the assembly guide before ordering so you know what awaits you and you feel comfortable putting the camera kit together.

Adaptability:

Software and hardware is open-source. Alter and adapt to your own needs if necessary.

Lens size:

The Rasberry Pi Camera Module does support C and CS-Mount lenses. Any non-motorized lens will work as long as it fits the enclosure. The physical length of the lens (not the focal length, but how long the barrel of the lens actually is) should not exceed 35mm. The official 6mm wide-angle sold alongside the Camera Module is quite large but does fit nicely. If you are not sure which lens to buy, the 6mm is not a bad option (it is not very wide-angle, though). If you plan to use a lens that is longer, please let me know so I can print a larger enclosure.

Color choice:

The enclosure can be printed in two different colors (light gray, dark gray and black). Light gray is the color of choice for nearly everywhere because it lowers how much the enclosure heats up given several hours of sun exposure. However, if you want to run the camera during sub-zero temperatures in winter or cold climates, the black enclosure may come handy to increase the temperature of the camera. This way batteries retain a bit more of their capacity in cold environments and the camera runs a bit longer.

Technical details:

Resolution: 12MP (specs of the Camera Module)
Maximum exposure time: about 2-3 days on two batteries (max 6, with different battery holder)
Size: 10cmx10cmx7cm (width/depth/height)

Shipping:

International shipping is apparently a lot more complicated right now. I set a few rates for countries such as the UK or USA right now and a "ship everwhere else" flat rate with DHL (which is quite high). If you live neither in the EU, UK or USA, you can let me know before you order and I may find a less expensive shipping rate to your place. Please be aware: if you reside outside of the European Union, you may be subject to customs fees.

If you've got any questions, let me know.