====== Camera ====== Initially, I just wanted to document [[projects:led_ring_flash|how to modify a LED ring light to use as flash for Sony Multiport]]. This page transformed into a collection (mostly for Sony cameras) of info and links: a so called 'awesome page'. \\ FYI: Print a [[https://www.hamburger-fotospots.de/kostenloser-download-foto-cheatcard-fuer-fotografen.html|CheatCard for photographers]]. \\ ==== Trigger ==== Possible Methods to Capture Shutter Events or Trigger a Ring Light on Cameras: - **Hot Shoe Interface** * 2-pin Hot Shoe (grounded middle pin) * Sony Multi Interface Shoe (MIS) * Older Auto-lock Accessory Shoe (AAS, legacy; pre-2012) - **Flash Trigger Ports** * 2.5mm (sub-mini) / 3.5mm Mono Jacks: Used for analog shutter/flash triggering * 2.5mm stereo mini-jack (TRS: Tip-Ring-Sleeve) for digital Sony LANC * PC Sync Port (custom coaxial) - **USB Shutter Interface** * USB 10-pin or 15-pin shutter plug via breakout board - **Software-Based Triggering** * Camera control software (e.g., Sony Camera Remote SDK or automation tools) - **Sony Live‑View Remote Units** * RM-LVR2 and RM-LVR3 (check camera compatibility) For cameras with no hot shoe or 3.5mm connector (like Sony A5100), consider going for number 3. \\ ==== Hot shoe connectors ==== A basic hot shoe is basically like a flash trigger port, as the middle pin is grounded for triggering the flash. \\ Sony introduced the [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi_Interface_Shoe|Multi Interface Shoe]] (MIS), which used to be Auto-lock Accessory Shoe (AAS) previously. See the [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_shoe#History_and_use|wikipedia]]. For detailed information read [[https://www.mhohner.de/sony-minolta/flashcomp_techref.php]], also see [[https://github.com/mungewell/pico-timecode/issues/7|internal pictures]]. \\ ===== Sony LANC ===== === Info == [[https://www.boehmel.de/lanc.htm]] \\ [[https://www.studio1productions.com/sony-pinout/]] [[https://controlyourcamera.blogspot.com/2011/02/arduino-controlled-video-recording-over.html]] \\ === Software / Libs === [[https://github.com/Novgorod/LANC-USB-GUI]] \\ [[https://github.com/sensslen/LibLanc|LibLanc Arduino library]] \\ [[https://github.com/BleuLlama/IR-Lanc-Bridge|iR LANC bridge (Arduino)]] \\ [[https://github.com/edgar-bonet/ctrl-zoom|DC motor controller using LANC]] \\ ===== Multiport ===== === official Multiport remote controls === * **Sony RM-VPR1** * Functions: shutter release, start/stop video recording. * **Sony RM-SPR1** * Shutter release and video recording control. Note: There are also iR remotes like RMT-DSLR1 / RMT-DSLR2 for older Sony cameras. \\ RMT-P1BT remote can be used with newer cameras having Bluetooth. \\ ==== DIY Multiport ==== [[https://github.com/epietrowicz/Sony-Multiport-Controller]] \\ Read the four part story about [[https://peterwedege.blogspot.com/2016/04/analyzing-sonys-multiport-part-4.html?m=1|Analyzing Sony's Multiport on peterwedege.blogspot]]. \\ There also is a [[https://www.instructables.com/Sony-Camera-Multi-Port-Connector-Load-Test/|load test on multiport]] \\ Somebody already [[https://picsngeek.at/constructions/combined-charger-and-trigger-cable-for-sony-mirrorless-cameras-like-a6400/|created a DIY cable]] and put [[https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4279366|3D print files for the connector on thingiverse]]. \\ ===== modified battery as USB-C dummy ===== There is an expensive //Sony DC-Coupler DC-C1// (for NP-FW50 / NP-FZ100) or aftermarket dummy batteries for cameras that cannot be powered w/o battery - like A5100. You can also build one yourself: Modify a (broken) battery to use as a dummy with USB-C. \\ Caution: Do not accidentally cut into the LiPo battery! Beware of health issues. \\ Battery uses 2x 3.6V cells with BMS. Replace those cells with electronics to get ~7.2V and add a diode for safety. \\ [[projects:usb-c-ify|Read here how to do it.]] \\ ===== Software ===== There is something like Magic Lantern (Canon) for Sony too, called //OpenMemories//. \\ [[https://github.com/ma1co/OpenMemories-Tweak]] \\ [[https://github.com/ma1co/Sony-PMCA-RE]] \\ Also see [[https://github.com/ma1co?tab=repositories|the complete repo of ma1co]] for apps and store, etc. \\ [[https://github.com/ThibaudM/timelapse-sony]] \\ ==== A5100 ==== [[https://github.com/obs1dium/BetterManual]]: ease shooting in manual and aperture priority mode with (legacy) prime lenses on A5100 \\ [[https://github.com/obs1dium/FocusBracket]] \\ ==== SDK ==== Sony Camera SDK: [[https://developer.sony.com/file/download/sony-camera-remote-api-beta-sdk-2]] \\ [[https://support.d-imaging.sony.co.jp/app/sdk/en/index.html]] \\ or [[https://github.com/keyserSoze42/SonySDK]] \\ ==== APIs / Programs ==== [[https://github.com/kota65535/sony_camera_remote_api]] \\ [[https://github.com/Bloodevil/sony_camera_api]] \\ undocumented functions: [[https://github.com/Bloodevil/sony_camera_api/issues/72]] \\ [[https://github.com/gphoto/gphoto2]] \\ [[https://github.com/jdesfossez/sony-remote]] \\ ===== Sony QX series ===== Sony QX is the coolest camera flop, therefore I have collected some sources. \\ ^ Model ^ Sensor Type ^ Megapixels ^ Optical Zoom ^ Aperture Range ^ Lens ^ Manual Controls ^ RAW Support ^ NFC/Wi-Fi ^ Notable Features ^ | QX10 | 1/2.3" CMOS | 18.2 MP | 10x | f/3.3–5.9 | Sony G Lens | No | No | Yes | Compact; Basic control via app | | QX100 | 1.0" Exmor R CMOS | 20.2 MP | 3.6x | f/1.8–4.9 | Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* | Partial (exposure comp.) | No | Yes | High-quality lens; Low light performance | | QX30 | 1/2.3" Exmor R CMOS | 20.4 MP | 30x | f/3.5–6.3 | Sony G Lens | No | No | Yes | Long zoom; High-res stills | | QX1 | APS-C Exmor CMOS | 20.1 MP | Depends on lens | Depends | E-mount (interchangeable) | Full Manual | Yes | Yes | DSLR sensor; RAW + lens options | Note: Consider updating QX Firmware to v3. \\ FYI: It is possible to use **RM-LVR2** Sony Live‑View Remote units with QX series. \\ Alternative to QX, also see professional UMC series (like UMC‑R10C or S3C(A)) - be aware that it has no app support (no SDK either?) and no WiFi (although using USB-to-WiFi might be viable?) \\ There also is a drone camera ILX-LR1. \\ [[https://github.com/Tsar/sony_qx_controller]] \\ [[https://github.com/avetics/qx100|Fork of Tsar with GUI]] \\ [[https://github.com/avetics/qx100_web]] \\ [[https://github.com/avetics/rqt_qx100|ROS RQT plugin]] \\ [[https://github.com/AiOO/QX100-Webcamizer]] \\ [[https://github.com/Malek44/QX10_Remote]] \\ [[https://github.com/san1987/sonycamremote]] \\ [[https://github.com/luciorq/playmemories.proto2]] \\ [[https://github.com/yoggy/p5_qx10|Sony DSC-QX10 remote control library for Processsing]] \\ [[https://github.com/yoggy/QX10_takePicture|example implementation of yoggy's lib]] \\ [[https://github.com/ucali/SonyCameraRemoteApi]] \\ [[https://github.com/jefflovejapan/snappy]] \\ [[https://github.com/shivamiitkgp/Sony-QX-10-WiFi-Remote-Control-ESP8266-Arduino]] \\ [[https://locana.github.io/|Locana Windows application]] \\ [[https://forums.puri.sm/t/using-a-sony-qx10-and-qx100-lenscamera-with-l5-possible/19660|QX10(0) on Purism Librem 5]] \\ [[https://chdk.setepontos.com/index.php?topic=10736.0|capturing data between QX10 and smartphone]] \\ [[https://community.emlid.com/t/hacking-the-sony-qx1-for-output-trigger-external-flash/2647/27]] \\ \\ ==== Modifications ==== It is possible to remove iR filter like on QX1: [[https://www.lifepixel.com/tutorials/infrared-diy-tutorials/life-pixel-sony-qx1-diy-digital-infrared-conversion-tutorial]] \\ Intercept the Xenon flash to trigger external flash (like on QX1): [[https://community.emlid.com/t/hacking-the-sony-qx1-for-output-trigger-external-flash/2647/15]] \\ [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ha0xzv3xh0|QX10 teardown on YT]] \\ [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AvukTpo30ig|QX10 remote trigger mod on YT]] \\ Use 2xQX cameras for 3D stereoscopic: [[https://hackaday.com/2022/04/30/clever-stereo-camera-uses-sony-wireless-camera-modules/]] \\ or 3D-print a lens for 3D wiggle pictures: [[https://www.reddit.com/r/3Dprinting/comments/paowww/3d_printed_a_3d_stereoscopic_wiggle_lens_for_sony/]] \\ ===== PlayStation camera ===== Not only XBOX 360/One Kinect camera can be used for development and interesting stuff, also see Sony PlayStation 3 eye / PS4 cameras. \\ For more PlayStation stuff, go to [[projects:playstation]]. \\ ==== PS3 EYE camera ==== PS3 eye camera is model SLEH-00448, using an OmniVision OV7720 sensor (color CMOS) with OV534 USB bridge. It has a fixed firmware, is standard USB2.0 and UVC-compliant, meaning Linux detects it as a standard webcam. \\ Sensor is 1/4", each pixel is a relatively big with [[https://image-sensors-world.blogspot.com/2010/10/omnivision-vga-sensor-inside-sony-eye.html?m=1|size of 6um x 6um]]. \\ It has 4 microphones with 4-channel output. \\ Frame Rates are 60fps@640×480 or 120fps@320×240. \\ Field of view is selectable physically on a lens ring: 56° (narrow mode) or 75° (wide mode). \\ There are two different versions under the same model name: *flat-front lens which is fixed or glue-locked which are harder to mod - common in early units (USA/EU) *curved (bulging) lens with a manual focus ring - common in later or Asian units [[https://www.behance.net/gallery/8955421/Hacking-Sony-PS3-Eye-Camera]] \\ [[https://github.com/AllanCat/PS3EyeDirectShow]] \\ [[https://github.com/bensondaled/pseyepy]] \\ [[https://github.com/psmoveservice/PSMoveService]] and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiLYa1EZL04|its YT tutorial video]] \\ [[https://github.com/ThomasDebrunner/PS3Eye-OpenCV-Demo]] \\ [[https://github.com/bakercp/ofxPS3EyeGrabber]] \\ [[https://github.com/opentrack/opentrack/wiki/PS3-Eye-open-driver-instructions]] and with [[https://delanclip.com/manuals/ps3-eye-camera-head-tracking/|delanclip]] \\ [[https://delanclip.com/ps3-eye-camera-disassembly-a-step-by-step-guide/|disassembly]] and [[https://delanclip.com/proven-ps3-camera-ir-filter-removal-flat-lens/|iR-filter removal]] \\ [[https://www.iaacblog.com/programs/1201/|use PS3 cam as microscope]] \\ [[https://www.instructables.com/Eye-Writer-30/]] \\ [[https://www.instructables.com/HOW-TO-MAKE-AN-INFRARED-CAMERA-WITH-AN-IR-LED-LIGH/]] \\ [[https://astrobeano.blogspot.com/2013/03/ps3-eye-camera-for-astrophotography.html?m=1|Somebody has even used it for astrophotography]] \\ ==== PS4 camera ==== There are two PS4 Camera models, which are technically the same but different in physical design: * CUH-ZEY1 (original v1, cylindrical/round design with a dedicated stand) * CUH-ZEY2 (revised v2, more square/edgy design - flatter, adjustable folding stand that clips to screens more easily) PS4 Camera has two lenses (stereo) for depth perception and motion tracking. The field of view is 85°. It has a 4-channel beamforming microphone array. \\ Possible frame rates are: * 60 fps at 1280×800 * 120 fps at 640×400 * 240 fps at 320×192 See [[https://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/PlayStation+4+Camera+Teardown/26783|ifixit for internal pictures]]. [[https://www.psdevwiki.com/ps4/PlayStation_4_Camera|For more info read psdevwiki]] \\ Although Sony says both revisions are technically the same, there are [[https://youtu.be/qjDT_bno_rU?si=8d33-pAj2Vm7pnyk&t=187|some slight differences in contrast]] and some people [[https://www.reddit.com/r/PSVR/comments/5b2sby/any_actual_differences_between_v1_and_v2_camera/|prefer v1 over v2]]. \\ The [[https://www.psdevwiki.com/ps4/Aux|AUX port is basically USB3.0]] and can be modified to a regular USB-plug: Either solder a USB3 plug (type A or C) on the cable or open the camera and add a USB3 socket (type B or C). \\ Both camera frames are joined and transmitted in a single picture next to each other. The firmware is not fixed - the boot mode requires a firmware to be loaded on start. If you want to know more [[https://psxdev.github.io/luke2.html|how PS4 camera works in detail, see this two part series]]. \\ There also is an [[https://www.reddit.com/r/PSVR/comments/k1185s/ps4_camera_adaptor_tear_down/|active USB3.0 adapter called AC-57 (for PS5)]], which separates the camera frames and makes them to two single cameras again. \\ [[https://github.com/bigboss-ps3dev/PS4EYECam/|PS4EYECam, a driver reference implementation]] \\ [[https://github.com/sieuwe1/PS4-eye-camera-for-linux-with-python-and-OpenCV]] \\ [[https://www.instructables.com/HACK-PlayStation-4-Cam-Into-Cheap-3D-Depth-Camera-/]] \\ [[https://github.com/ps4eye/ps4eye]] \\ [[https://github.com/raleighlittles/PlayStation-Camera-Firmware-Loader]] \\ [[https://github.com/Hackinside/Playstation-camera-drivers]] \\ [[https://psxdev.github.io/luke2.html]] \\ ROS packages: \\ [[https://github.com/tu-darmstadt-ros-pkg/ps4_stereo_camera]] \\ [[https://github.com/TankyFranky/PS4_Stereo_ROS_SLAM]] \\ [[https://github.com/longjie/ps4eye]] \\ ==== XBox Kinect camera ==== Instead of using PS3/PS4 camera for MoCap (motion capture), consider to use the good old Kinect camera. \\ #TODO \\ List drivers+SW \\ Compare Kinect v1 vs v2. \\ Compare Kinect to stereo PS3 vs PS4. \\ More things done with/to Kinect: \\ Minimize Kinect camera: [[https://medium.com/robotics-weekends/how-to-turn-old-kinect-into-a-compact-usb-powered-rgbd-sensor-f23d58e10eb0]] \\