ONDU 6x12 RISE Mark III Pinhole Camera review

16th November 2019

Recently I was shopping around for a pinhole camera, while browsing around on the internet I came across the ONDU website. ONDU company is a family-run business in Slovenia started in 2012 by building wooden geodesic domes used as private homes or businesses. In 2013 they kick-started the camera production.

The online catalog has a list of various types of pinhole, but the one which suited my type of photography was the 6x12 RISE.

I ordered the 6x12 RISE complete with a personalized engraving and in a matter of a few days, I received notification that the camera was ready to be shipped the next morning. Three days later I received a parcel at my work office, it was the ONDU camera!

First Impressions

The 6x12 RISE is a multi-format camera with a 2:1 image frame that is capable of shooting panoramic images. The design and build ensure durability, and I am sure they will endure the test of time. ONDU team takes good care while producing these beautiful pieces and they give the utmost importance to detail to the entire camera. It has a very sophisticated feel to it although no electronics and no ‘modern’ gadgetry installed. It comes with a snap-on guide for a Cokin A series filter which snaps on using another 2 magnets, a wooden exposure chart, velvet bag, and an empty 120 filter spool.

I was very surprised when I received an email from ONDU (Hello Elvis 😃) and they offered to design a 3D printed snap-on filter for my LEE filters kit.

Features

The 6x12 RISE shoots 120 films in 3 different formats; 6x6, 6x9 & 6x12. Inside the film chamber, there are 2 removable partitions, when these are inserted in the 2 inner slots the camera will produce a 6x6 image, when moved to the outer 2 slots it will produce a 6x9 image and when both are removed it will produce a panoramic 6x12 image.

The pinhole has a diameter of 0,3mm with an f stop equivalent of 133 and a focal length of 40mm. It comes with 3 laser engraved field of view guides and a bubble level. The dimensions (W) 65mm x (H) 103mm (L) 200mm. It weighs around 502g including the snap-on guide attached.

The ONDU 6x12 Multi-format has 20 embedded super magnets, some of which hold the backplate in place sealing the film chamber with a stepped edge, preventing any light leaks from reaching the inside. The winding knobs are also attached by two magnets, making it easier to replace the film by simply pulling the knob and release the roll. The magnets are super strong preventing any risk from knocking the backplate. It also comes equipped with an elastic shutter strap, which can be secured over the camera while not in use or during transport in order not to get any unwanted accidental exposures. Another great feature that I really like with the new ONDU MK III, is the new sliding shutter designed to ensure shake-free exposures.

The RISE has a three-hole system that allows the user to adjust the position of the horizon while keeping the same frame without distorting the horizon lines. This was one of the main reasons why I chose the ONDU 6x12 RISE. On the back-plate, the two frame windows have an engraving of the size of the format in which the camera is able to shoot. It was difficult to see the numbers in the tiny frame till I got used to it, especially in low light, I would prefer if the windows were slightly bigger, I noticed that the circumference of the window casts a shadow covering the printed number on the backing paper, but then I got used to it.

Custom Engraving

ONDU offers the opportunity to customize your pinhole camera with a laser engraving. I was surprised when I saw the engraving on my back-plate, I think this adds value and makes it your own personal camera. I chose to engrave my very own personal quote and my name. I strongly suggest to add this fantastic feature, it will cost you close to nothing and you will have something to treasure for many years to come.

My Conclusion

The ONDU pinhole is definitely not only a simple camera, there is so much detail, great care, and a unique personal touch which adds motivation to buy one. In my opinion, it is a masterpiece. Apart from the aesthetics its practicality and functionality make it very simple to use, but not only, but the use of the super magnets to hold in place the back-plate and the winding knobs also makes it easier to operate especially in conditions where it is not that simple to dismantle tiny parts.

Well done ONDU ! you got my 5 Stars.