The initial version of the Leica MPi was introduced by Michael Suguitan as an open-source initiative in May 2023. Since then, there have been several important enhancements to the project. The core concept stays unchanged: the Leica M2 is paired with a Raspberry Pi and a camera sensor that works together to turn the classic 1957 rangefinder camera into a modern digital device.
Improved Sensor Features
In the latest iteration, the previous 12 MP Sony IMX477 sensor in a 1/2.3 inch format is substituted with a larger Arducam OwlSight sensor, boasting 64 MP in a 1/1.32 inch size. This upgraded sensor provides a magnification factor of 3.7, transforming the Laowa 9 mm f/5.6 lens into a lens that behaves like a 33 mm on a full-frame camera, while a 90 mm lens becomes equivalent to a 333 mm telephoto lens. Additionally, the new sensor allows for taking vibrant color photos during daytime, a feature that was hindered in the earlier model because there was no infrared filter, leading to color distortions.
New Features and Design
Changes also include support for flash and a built-in battery charged via USB-C. As illustrated in the video below, the digital module adds noticeable thickness to the middle section of the Leica M2, which restricts the viewfinder usage to the right eye only. For those interested in recreating this project on their own, the price of the camera should be taken into account, as finding a used Leica M2 now typically costs over $2,220.
How to Get Involved
The Leica MPi is available as an open-source project on Github, so if you're looking to modify a Leica M2, you will need to do it yourself. The most cost-intensive parts necessary for assembly include the Arducam OwlSight camera sensor, priced around $60, the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 at $21, and the Waveshare LCD, which is about $14. If you wish to support the creator of this project, Michael Suguitan, you can purchase a photography book in A5 size that contains at least 30 pages for $20, plus shipping and import taxes, through Kickstarter.
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