Crowd funding is becoming increasingly popular among creatives. With more sites sprinting up and more artists asking for funds, Don’t Take Pictures spotlights projects that benefit the arts community.

This month’s crowd funding roundup presents a build-your-own large format camera.

The Standard 4x5 Build Your Own Large Format Camera

The Standard 4x5 camera is a 3D printed large format camera with some assembly required. At only $320 the camera is shockingly affordable. The lightweight, modular design allows photographers to take the camera just about anywhere without sacrificing durability. The camera weighs only two pounds and is printed with recyclable PETG filament. The printed parts are easily modified and replaced.

Drew Nikonowicz is using Kickstarter to reach a modest $15,000 goal. These funds will go towards launching both the 4x5 project and his company Standard Cameras. Standard Cameras aims to release a full range of modular tools and accessories for their 4x5 as well as provide affordable workshops and grants to aspiring photographers. The rewards range from tote bags and stickers for a $25 pledge to special edition blackout cameras at $500. The camera design will be released as open source once the cameras begin shipping.

Read more about the Standard 4x5 Camera on the Kickstarter page.

There are 11 days left to fund this project.

Do you know of a crowd funding project that benefits the arts community? Let us know at info@donttakepictures.com.