A groundbreaking panoramic film camera specifically engineered to capture uninterrupted wide landscapes has been developed by industrial designer Derek Chiang in collaboration with industrial and graphic designer Ellie Kim. The Sasquatch 617, a medium-format film camera, represents an innovative solution to the longstanding challenge of photographing expansive landscapes that extend beyond the limitations of standard photographic framing.
The camera addresses a fundamental issue in landscape photography by producing continuous photographs rather than relying on digitally stitched panoramas that reconstruct scenes from multiple separate images. This unique capability makes the Sasquatch 617 particularly well-suited for capturing dynamic environments where movement is present, such as trees swaying in the wind or ocean waves breaking against the shore. The ability to create a single, uninterrupted image ensures that moving elements are captured naturally without the distortion or discontinuity that can occur with traditional panoramic stitching techniques.
The construction of the Sasquatch 617 combines durability with precision engineering. The camera features a robust 304 stainless steel exterior frame that is complemented by 3D printed polycarbonate components, creating a balance between strength and weight efficiency. When equipped with a lens, the complete system weighs approximately 1 kilogram, making it manageable for extended outdoor photography sessions while maintaining the structural integrity needed for professional use.
Functional design elements have been carefully integrated into the camera's construction to enhance usability in field conditions. The system includes a focusing ring for precise image control, a rear door panel that provides complete access to the film compartment, and manual film advance knobs that give photographers full control over the shooting process. These features reflect the designers' commitment to creating a tool that serves the practical needs of landscape photographers working in challenging outdoor environments.
To further extend the camera's versatility, several optional accessories have been developed to complement the base system. These include a magnetically attached viewfinder that allows for precise composition, a magnetically attached shutter release cable for stable operation, and a protective lens cover to safeguard the optical elements during transport and storage. The magnetic attachment system ensures that accessories can be quickly and securely connected without compromising the camera's streamlined design.
The Sasquatch 617 has been specifically engineered as a robust tool for outdoor photography applications while maintaining the precision required for professional-quality results. The camera's design philosophy emphasizes both durability and operational accuracy, making it suitable for photographers who work in demanding environmental conditions. Sample images captured with the camera using various film stocks, including Kodak Ektar 100, Kodak Gold 200, and Kodak Portra 400, demonstrate the system's ability to produce high-quality panoramic photographs across different film types and lighting conditions.
The commercial release of the Sasquatch 617 is planned through a crowdfunding approach, with pre-orders scheduled to become available on Kickstarter in September 2025. Following the completion of the funding campaign, shipping of the cameras to backers is planned for late November 2025, marking the official launch of this innovative panoramic photography system into the market.
