I've had several requests from people wanting information on homebru cameras. I am a rookie in the camera making business. My buddy Mike(Trad Gangs-missing impossible) is the expert. With permission from the mods, I'll ask Mike to post the information on the Cameras/photography section of Trad Gang. So keep your eyes on that section. Thanks for the interest.
Mike
BTW- If enough guys/gals ask, I'll bet Mike will even put a build along together for ya.
Would love to see thread. And a build along!
Me too on the build along!!!!
David
I would like to see a build along as well.
yes please
Do you mean home brew, as in home made?
QuoteOriginally posted by George D. Stout:
Do you mean home brew, as in home made?
Yes sir. There are several regular digital cameras on the market that are used to make these cameras. I have to work a double tomorrow but on Monday I'll get some pics of a couple of mine to show you all. I have some pics posted on the 2010 thread on here and they were taken from a home bru.
I've been wonting to try making one for sometime now. i'd love to see it.
Count me in, (I feel a new addiction comin' on!!)
Im in as well for a build along! Cant wait to see it
Thanks Mike. I look forward to learning more.
Merf
Leatherneck, let me know if you got the OK then I'll start a new build with info and photos. Here's a recent one to give ya an idea of what we're talking about. (http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g177/14fork/IMG_0562.jpg) (http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g177/14fork/IMG_0563.jpg)
would love to see a build along!
Yeah, bring it on guys....there's a lot of us that use trail cams...so definitely trad bowhunting related. Looking forward to it!
I built several 35mm versions before the digitals got big....now I'd luv to try my hand at digital home brews :clapper:
They take by far the best pix ...
I must warn all of you!
IT"S ADDICTIVE!!!!! lol
Looks like the OK was given folks. Give Mike(Missing Impossible) some time to get the build along together and he'll have it posted. Thanks Mike.
Mike, I have a 380 that still needs hacked if you need it for this.
Cool! Can't wait.
Sounds good. I've been wanting to buy on, but know I may just build it!
Be watching this post.
Please...
Looking forward to it.
Very good i look forward to this
Mike did you get my PM?
Andy, I got it. Hence this post. I received so many requests for info that I thought it would be better if we just got it all posted on here. I'll get some web sites posted here tomorrow so people can start looking until the build along gets done.
I'm ready to build along!!!!
thanks Mike appreciate the time and help this is going to be a good one! thanks for getting it rolling :notworthy:
this is going to be a good one, still in time for turkey season!!!!
Im interested in the build along
Man this ought to be a good one! Thanks guys! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
I have been using his homebrews all year they are great,MissingImpossible lets get this on. :thumbsup:
i have done about a dozen homebrew cameras. Its always interesting to see how others do it. I'll be watching.
I'll be watching this thread. How much does one of the homebrews cost and can they be done in the small case, similar to the DLC?
Mine will be used on public land so smaller and/or cheaper, in case they are stolen would be great.
We'll probably do the build along with a pelican 1020 case which is 6.4x4.75.2.12, thats pretty darn small. I'll also show a few builds with external batteries in a pelican 1060 case for long stays afield.
can't wait
The nice thing is that you can review and zoom in on the pictures. No need to pull the card and put it on a computer.
That zoom feature works good, doesn't it Mike LOL?
Paul
Keith, I'll try to answer your money question. Alot of the price depends on how elaborate you want your camera. You can buy a "kit" where it costs about $120.00 to $140.00. That will include everything you need to make a camera except the camera. As far as camera prices go,I bought a Olympis 380 for $8.00 on the auction. So for about $130.00, you'll have a very nice camera. Now with the same kit if you want to use a Sony S600(one of our favorites), the camera will cost about 60-70 dollars on the auction. If you want IR,video,etc., then the board and component prices go up a bit. One thing is for certain, a camera build with the s600 that may cost 200-220, will outperform some of the more expensive cameras on the market. And if the board ever goes bad, I just replace the board. If the camera goes bad, replace the camera. Get the point?
As far as size, that depends on you and what camera you choose. You can have a P32 mounted in a pelican case that will fit into the palm of your hand. And all of these are made with a tube to put a python cable through them. Once Mike gets the build along going, I'll do a camo job on one I have made using liquid nail and paint. They camo up in 3d and really blend into a tree. Hope this helps. Mike feel free to correct me if I made a quote in error.
Mike
Paul, that was a low blow!!!lol
This I've GOT to see. I'm a build-along lovin' freak!
BlacktailBowhunter, Now I could mention how many hundreds of dollars you spent on hand, belly, back, and foot warmers! You must live on the southern coast of Oregon, like near the Baja peninsula!
Others, the build will not be about making the cheapest trail cam. There are plenty on the market that you can waste your money on if one is trying to "make do". Trail cams are about making a quality trail cam which, as leatherneck says, will be repairable by the maker as well as provide super fast trigger speed, wide angle detection, extra battery life, and even movie and extended flash capability.
Sony cameras use Carl Zeiss lenses. Name a commercial trail cam that can claim that. My newest Sony cam for a trail project is 12.1 MP. Name a commercial trail cam that can claim that.
This will be fun, just please be patient while we gather parts.
Mike
Would it be possible to get the prep work your doing now be part of the buildalong?
Prep work would be a six pack for missing impossible. :biglaugh: The sony s600 is my favorite.
Been quite a while since I have made one, used to use boards from pixcontroller.com before he stopped selling the boards. I am very interested in what you boys are using for your guts of the trail cam :D
how long does the battery go on these
Mike and Mike.....I've had a SONY P200 laying around here for a while. It still works fine, but has gotten some dust inside and it shows on some pix, so for hunting and everyday use it's out...but....for a trail cam it would take extremely fine pix.
Do you if it can be hacked??
Like I said earlier...I used to make the 35mm tc's with the "owl" cams(as a matter of fact I think I still have 3 brand new in boxes downstairs). So I'm very familiar with building tc's. I look forward to making some digital versions...too much fun!!!
I'm looking forward to this guys.
Gererdo, generally a camera will have two AA batteries and will last about two to three weeks. However, one can add external batteries to greatly increase the life. With externals, your limiting factor would probably be your memory. Solar power is also an option with homebrews.
Guru, seems that some people hacked the P200 but I can't find any details. My guess would be that it had a slow trigger time, weak flash or a PIA hack.
ttt
UP
TTT
Just bought my first one and have had it out for a couple weeks. Looking forward to this. Should be able to get some better shots.
Can you rig one with IR flash? Something about haveing a camera flash makes it more high profile (easier to find) than the IR does. My hunt areas are not what I would exactly call "private".
Got everything except for the board, ordering that today.
Marvin, yes but not this build.
I am interested in seeing the build along.
I do wonder however what you get for building one over just buying a camera?I read earier about replacing parts yourself but then a bought camera would carry a warrenty if there were problems with it.Since building one with infrared ect would cost more than buying one if you built iT to work like the new ones.Other than just having fun doing it where is the real advantage over buying one?
James,
You can build a camera with infared, etc. cheaper than the expensive models now on the market also, as posted earlier most of the cameras commonly used have much better quality lenses and take better pictures.
I have one with a backup internal battery pack and with AA lithium, batteries I can leave it out for 3 months in the winter ( Colorado winter).
Pat
Good question James. I'll try to answer it. There are advantages to these cameras. Warrantys only last for so long. After the warranty, you pay to fix it. Or you buy a new camera. Not to mention that when there is a problem, lets say in Nov. during the rut and your scouting. Your camera goes down. You don't need to send it away to fix it, you built it! You can fix it! And then your back in business in no time. As far as quality, the proof is in the camera. These cameras have the fastest triggers I've ever seen. I still own a Cuddy and these are probably a little faster. I have owned about 8 different commercial cameras and have not had one yet that can compare to the ones missing impossible makes. This isn't marketing, cause he don't sell them. Just stating my opinion. Another reason is picture quality is much better. Once again, MY cuddy has some fuzziness to the pics. These are crystal clear. And these are only getting better. Ever see a commercial camera that offers 12.0 mexa pixels? You will on a homebrew real soon. Guys are already making them and getting ready to put the boards out.
Hopefully I was able to answer your question.
And yes, they are fun!!!
BTW- Mike ordered the board for the build so please be patient until all the materials are gathered.
Mike
thanks.. I know with most you can read reviews and see comparisons beteen the different models.I just wonder how the homemades stack up if one was tested as the new ones are?I am in the market and have been researching it some so I am interested in how the homemades really work.I mean even some of the old cheapies will give good results if stuck on a corn pile ect.Is the picture quality the only real advantage.Some of the new ones have exceptional battery life compared to the old ones and the prices are getting more attractive as well.Now I am not trying to start anything but just want to see what is really better than say buing a sub $200 Trophy can verses building one. :)
You are absolutely right James. If a person just wants a camera to place on a feeder, wallow, or any other fixed application, then any old cheap camera would do. For me, I use them on alot of trail systems in heavy brush. I want a good picture and a fast trigger. Thats what I really get out of them. I guess it's what type of application an individual wants to use them for.
No offense taken, those are really good questions.
Mike P.(missing impossible) is the expert on this and I'm sure when he gets home from work he'll chime in a little. I'm only speaking for me on the subject.
And yes, they are fun!!!
James, it's going to be a simple build along for those interested. There have been several advantages already listed. If you do not see those things listed as advantages then proceed with your store purchase. Funny how the same cameras people buy and trust to record major events in their life like vacations and graduations are now in question because we're going to place them in a waterproof case. Just saying.
Sorry guys did not mean to rain on your thread. :( I am not doubting the cameras being used btw.Just wondering about the whole package as far as trigger speeds,range ect.I know the camera itself is better than those used in trail cams.I just was wondering about the other things like ranges and stuff that is part of what makes one unit better than another.As said with a store bought unit that stuff is listed in the specs ect so it is easy to see what this many more dollars will get you.All kinds of websites to see real world comparisions on pictures,trigger times ect.I will just take your word than a homemade one is better but still it would be nice to see how they compare in those things other than just picture quality.I will wait and check out the build along.Sorry for doubting or asking questons but I try to research stuff too much at times. :)
I have 4 homebrew cameras,none made by me.They all use a 4MP Sony Cybershot and take excellent pictures.
I have not used any commercial digitals to compare but the trigger speeds are good.Another advantage is you can view your pictures at the site,on your camera without buying some additional equipment or having to wait till you get home to find out what you have.
Most commercial cameras don't have this feature.
This picture may give you an idea of speed.
(http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a140/jbrandenburg/MeadowTrough2008-1.jpg)
This wolf didn't come into the trough but got it's picture taken anyway,about 50-60' out.
(http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a140/jbrandenburg/MeadowTrough001-1.jpg)
Great pics Jim. What board are you running in that camera?
TTT
I've got a couple old Sony Cypershots 2MP that have been upgraded. Can these be used is there a list of cameras that can be used for this applications.
LC, pm sent.
Just to save a little on some questions. When Mike starts the build along he is going to post web sites where you can get all of the following, detailed directions for a particular build, supplies(wiring harnesses,cases, boards), what cameras can be used and what can't, etc. It is really easy to order things once you get started. Most of the time all you have to do to get a kit is click on the camera you are going to use and the kit comes drilled and ready. And the guys on the sites are like Trad Gang, they love to help!!!
TTT
For those interested in the build, here's a great reference site: http://www.d.umn.edu/~shall/Homebrews.htm
We will not be using a kit for the build because you'll learn more doing one from scratch. Kits are great though!
Build basics:
Sony P32 camera
Pelican 1040 case
Yeti board
Snapshotsniper HPWA fresnel lens
liqiud nail 3-D camo finish
python lock thru case
Maybe external batteries
Thanks for the interest!
MI
Could not get the reference website to come up for me.
Thanks, Looking forward to this.
Johnny/JAG
Can this be done by your average electronically challenged dummy?
A couple of questions, controls on the front or back of the board? order battery hookup and holder with it? and the case, foam filled or bare?
So good,
I'll be waiting to!
Ernie
The period at the end of the link is the problem.
Try this:
http://www.d.umn.edu/~shall/Homebrews.htm
Here are some night picks with a home brew. (http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj10/longbowben/DSC02327.jpg) (http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj10/longbowben/DSC02298.jpg)
QuoteOriginally posted by el_kirk:
The period at the end of the link is the problem.
Try this:
http://www.d.umn.edu/~shall/Homebrews.htm
Thanks man, that was a big help. There will be many other sites to follow.
The pics ben put up are from a Sony S600.
We need a list with detailed specifics for the technally challanged.
QuoteOriginally posted by The Night Stalker:
We need a list with detailed specifics for the technally challanged.
Patience grasshopper, patience. lol
It's coming soon. Mike has the board ordered and he'll get this started.
Thanks el_kirk, I fixed it.
@ reddogge, Yes. If I can do it, anyone can!
@ Hill Hunter, horizontal back mounted controls with 9v switched battery holder which has a lead to connect to board. Do NOT get the pic-n-pluck foam insert!
@ The Night Stalker, the build along will begin with a list of tools needed and a parts list.
ttt
been looking into this since Mick put me onto it
there is a lot of info out there and its the camera for me no doubt it offers a lot of advantages
looking forward to the build
im prob going to try a few One defiantly with the s600 for the great flash and image quality
Mike please advise on a cheaper camera model for just strait forward pics and a cheaper build, or something i can make Really small?
thanks Andy
I've accumulated a number of digital cameras. Sounds like a good use for them.
What features does a camera need to make it a candidate for a trail-cam build?
Is this one of those Cliff-Hanger threads?!!!
:coffee: ;) Eagerly awaiting the build along.
QuoteOriginally posted by Steve Kendrot:
Is this one of those Cliff-Hanger threads?!!!
:coffee: ;) Eagerly awaiting the build along.
Not really. Mike is waiting on a board to come in. He used up his last board and had to order one. If all goes well, I would anticipate this weekend maybe. Only the post office can tell. KILLY, we need that board!!!
Man I can't wait.Been checking out the sites referenced. I actually have two of the cameras thats been used.My question is when you turn it on, and then turn off the LCD display, the little green power light still stays on. Wouldn't that stay on on most cameras? Hows that play into battery life? Does the motor that covers uncovers the lense also must keep it open does this contribute to battery useage. I'm sure these are dumb questions and most likely will be addressed in your build along but enquiring minds wanta know! Thanks
Steve, no this is not a cliff hanger thread, seems like it though. This idea just sprang up on the pages of the thread with no planning and we're flying by the seat of our pants!
@ tradtusker, probably the cheapest camera would be an Olympus D380 or D370 but this cam has a love-hate operation. Love the instant trigger, hate the memory prices and the flash is so so. These go for $5 to $25 are considered workhorses and are very reliable. I have built cams with a pelican 1020 case with this cam, 5.31"x3.56"x1.68". Thats pretty small! The sony S600 and probably the sony P32 and P41 will fit into a pelican 1010(4.37x2.87x1.68)! P32's go anywhere for $20 to $60 on auction sites.
@ VTer, The first feature a camera needs is the ability to be hacked. Then there's flash cap recharging speed, flash range, and memory writing speed.
I'm no expert on these, I just think it's a fun hobby and the results are, IMHO, better than 99% of store bought cams. I'll try to focus the build on the things I found confusing and how I got through those. I'll show examples of different builds later so one can get ideas. Thanks for the interest!
TTT
Can't wait!!!!!!!!!
LC, good questions! The board turns our cam on and off so that's not a problem with our build. You do want to turn the rear lcd screen off when hanging these as that will drain your batteries. The lens cover will be disabled on our P32, not because of power consumption but because of noise. Maybe read thru the yeti board operation manual for a more in depth explanation. Everyone needs to do their homework!
Whew this is a lot of tech. information for a 61 year old trad. hunter. I have always wanted a trail camera. Hope it is not "over my head".
I guess a couple simple questions to start-
1. Auction sites for camera purchase - where and what are these sites? If this many people are interested in cameras and we all are bidding will the price go up?
2. The basic case for the unit- where would a person find that without buying a store bought unit.
I hope that we can print out all the instructions and information for this project.
I am just now getting indoor plumbing and now you want me to make a camera- it better be easy!! :knothead:
Gene, pm sent.
For anyone interested, the board has been shipped and we'll probably get this build rolling by weekend.
Really looking forward to it
Thanks for the note. I will be watching for the build along. Please let me know when you start.
Thanks
ttt
TTT
Just an update. I talked to Mike yesterday and he was still waiting on the board. He said he was going to get started today with photos and such. He probably wont start posting until he gets several steps done. Please be a little more patient as the delay was my fault. I kinda got him into this without knowing if he had everything to make a build. So blame me if you would. But the build has gotten started and I'm sure once he's done he'll get it posted. Thanks for your patience.
Mike
appreciate the time you two are putting into this
My season will be over next weekend.
Then this will give me a good project.
Take your time and spell all the BIG words for me.
Type slow and 'splain everything twice.
I may be slow, but I catch on quick.
Thanks,
Johnny/JAG :bigsmyl: :help:
QuoteOriginally posted by tradtusker:
appreciate the time you two are putting into this
Not me, Mike is the brains of this crew. Just consider me the,well, the concierge of this project. I'm just passing the time until the show gets started. :bigsmyl:
I've started the build along thread in the photography forum. Feel free to ask any questions there as the build moves along.
Come on over folks, it has begun.TTT
TTT one more time to let everyone know this is on the photography forum.
Can't wait to try.
The build along homebrew camera is completed except for the 3D camo. Please see the thread on the photography forum for those interested.
Mike