BAM’s Camera Obscura
What is a Camera Obscura?
A Camera Obscura exhibits the natural optical phenomenon that occurs when an image of a scene is projected through a small hole in a wall as an inverted image (left to right and upside down) on a surface opposite to the opening. This is similar to how a “pinhole” camera works. Camera Obscura with a lens in the opening have been used since the second half of the 16th century and became popular as an aid for drawing and painting. The device was developed further into the photographic camera early in the 19th century.
The Be A Maker space at the Betty Brinn Museum has built a large Camera Obscura, and they’ll have it at Maker Faire. During open making sessions in August, visitors to the museum helped construct a large light-proof plywood room in the middle of the BAMspace. By placing a small lens and pinhole on one side, the room was transformed into a camera obscura.
Learn more about BAM’s Camera Obscura or read about the history of the Camera Obscura.