reFrame: An Open-Source Experimental Camera with Color ePaper Display

Experimental ePaper Camera Introduced

reFrame is an experimental camera designed to capture and display one photo at a time using a color ePaper display. The device emphasizes a deliberate approach to photography, with each frame intended to be memorable. The ePaper display uses six pigments, and photos are dithered before appearing on the screen.

Display Technology and Image Processing

After the shutter is pressed, a photo takes 15 seconds to fully appear on the reFrame's display. This process involves electrical charges physically moving ink particles into place. When not actively used for photography, the reFrame functions as a desk photo frame, continuously displaying the last captured image. The processing applied to each image gives it a unique, print-like quality.

Open-Source Hardware and Software

The reFrame camera is an open-source project, with both its hardware and software available for public access. It is constructed using readily available components, enabling individuals to build their own unit. The necessary instructions and resources are provided on GitHub. Key internal components include a Raspberry Pi Zero, a Pi Camera 3, a 4-inch eInk Spectra 6 color display, and a battery.

Digital Photo Storage and Accessibility

Despite its ePaper display, reFrame saves photos digitally. While the ePaper screen is the primary viewing method, users can download both the original and dithered versions of their captured images through a web dashboard. The current version is designed as an open-source build-it-yourself project, with potential plans for individual orders in the future.