Stereo Camera Rig for Anaglyph or Stereoscopic Photography

Stereo Camera Rig for Anaglyph or Stereoscopic Photography

This is a prototype stereo camera rig that allows two cameras to capture images simultaneously from slightly different positions. The angle between the cameras is adjustable, allowing for a variety of viewing geometries. The rig is designed to be handheld, so it can be used while on the move.

The lower rails can accommodate two full-size SLR cameras, or any cameras or devices that use a standard ISO 1222:2010 1/4"-20 UNC threaded mount (the standard tripod screw size). The upper rails can also be used to mount equipment such as microphones or lights using the same type of screw.

You can also print the optional TPU grip strips, which slot into the rails and provide a cushioned, non-slip surface for your camera or other device.

The two sections of both the upper and lower rails meet at rosette joints secured with standard M5 screws. These joints allow the angle between the cameras to be adjusted.

You’ll also need a way to trigger both cameras simultaneously, but I’ll leave that as an exercise for the student. :)

Mounting Standard

This design uses standard ISO 1222:2010 1/4"-20 UNC tripod connections for mounting cameras and accessories.

Required Hardware

• 2 × M5 × 16 mm screws

• 2 × M5 nuts

• 4 × M5 washers

• 2 × (or 4 ×) ISO 1222:2010 1/4"-20 UNC threaded camera-mounting screws

You can find these parts in sets like the following, or use similar hardware:

• M5 screw set

• Camera-mounting screw set

Assembly Instructions

1. Assemble the lower rail by aligning the rosette joints on the Rig Arm Side 1 and Rig Arm Side 2 parts. Secure the joint with one M5 × 16 mm screw, an M5 nut, and two M5 washers—one beneath the screw head and one beneath the nut.

2. Assemble the upper rail in the same way using the second set of identical rig-arm parts.

3. Optionally, slide the TPU grip strips into the slots along the upper surfaces of the rails. These provide a cushioned, non-slip mounting surface for your cameras and accessories.

4. Pass the large printed M14 bolt through the end of the lower rail assembly, through the large cylindrical handle, and then through the corresponding end of the upper rail assembly.

5. Place a printed M14 washer at each end and secure the assembly with the printed M14 nut. Tighten it sufficiently to hold the handle and rails securely without overtightening the printed components.

6. Adjust the two rosette joints to set the desired angle between the cameras, then tighten the M5 fasteners to lock the rails in position.

Refer to the Stereo Camera Rig Full Assembly STL and STEP files for the correct orientation and placement of all components.

You’ll need to experiment a little to find the viewing geometry you prefer. To make things easier, I recommend starting with two matching lenses, or at least lenses set to the same focal length and focus distance. Of course, you can also experiment with different lenses, cameras, or configurations.

I printed the initial prototype in PLA. However, if you plan to use the rig with your actual camera gear, I strongly recommend printing it in a tougher, more durable material, such as ASA, PETG-CF, or PCCF.

The 3MF project files include all recommended print settings. STL and STEP files of the complete assembly are included for reference, along with individual STL files for printing the parts separately.

Enjoy!