# MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Overview ![An animated GIF showing a user holding the MEMENTO camera, pointing at a picture of Adabot.](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/747/medium800thumb/camera_x.jpg?1754939408 ) Make memories, or just a cool camera-based project, with  **Adafruit's MEMENTO Camera Board**. It's a development board with everything you need to create programmable camera and vision projects: with a camera module, TFT preview screen, buttons, SD card slot and driven by a powerful ESP32-S3 processor with 2 MB of PSRAM for buffering 5 MegaPixel camera images. This guide will focus on (pun intended) getting you familiar with using various functionality available with the MEMENTO camera. It's time to get started by getting your MEMENTO assembled and powered on. ## Parts ### MEMENTO - Python Programmable DIY Camera - Bare Board [MEMENTO - Python Programmable DIY Camera - Bare Board](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5420) Make memories, or just a cool camera-based project, with **Adafruit's MEMENTO Camera Board**. It's a development board with everything you need to create programmable camera and vision projects: with a camera module, TFT preview screen, buttons, SD card slot and... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5420) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5420/guides) ![Video of a DIY camera on a lazy susan.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/5420-05.jpg) ### Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Enclosure & Hardware Kit [Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Enclosure & Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5843) Once you've picked up your **MEMENTO Camera** and you're ready to take it out into the world, here is a chic and minimalist enclosure that will look great on the runways of Paris or the street photography of New York City! These front and back plates have been... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5843) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5843/guides) ![Overhead shot of two square-shaped PCB boards for a DIY camera above eight black plastic screws and four black plastic hex nuts with 3pin to 3pin JST PH cable and adhesive sticker.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/5843-05.jpg) ### USB Type A to Type C Cable - approx 1 meter / 3 ft long [USB Type A to Type C Cable - approx 1 meter / 3 ft long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4474) As technology changes and adapts, so does Adafruit. This   **USB Type A to Type C** cable will help you with the transition to USB C, even if you're still totin' around a USB Type A hub, computer or laptop. USB C is the latest industry-standard connector for... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4474) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4474/guides) ![Angled shot of a coiled black, USB-C to USB-A cable.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4474-02.jpg) # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Parts, Assembly, and Power On ![A view of the MEMENTO camera unassembled including three black circuit boards, a battery, a short cable and sticky tape, an microSD card and screws](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/003/medium800/camera_parts.png?1754939502 ) Your MEMENTO camera comes unassembled. Make sure you have all the pieces needed to assemble your camera. Assemble MEMENTO per the guide page below. ### AdaBox 021 - MEMENTO Assembly [AdaBox 021](https://learn.adafruit.com/adabox021) [MEMENTO Assembly](https://learn.adafruit.com/adabox021/memento-assembly) ## Inserting a microSD Card Info: ![The assembled MEMENTO is being powered on by sliding the on switch with ones fingernail](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/193/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1754939560 ) If you see the MEMENTO powered on at this point (the screen is on), slide the switch marked ➡On to the **left** , towards the upper left corner of the camera. The display should go dark and the green LED next to the switch should not be lit. Warning: ![A view of the left side of MEMENTO showing the connectors and microSD card slot and to the far left, a person's fingers holding a microSD card](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/004/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1754939969 ) With the MEMENTO powered off, take a microSD card with the non-straight edge to the right and printing on top (gold contacts on the bottom), insert the card into the slot where microSD is printed on the back of the camera. It is below the connector used to provide power and signal to the lights on the front of the camera (if installed). On the rear of the camera its labeled microSD. It's a small slot so it may be a bit hard to see at first. See the orientation of the card in relation to the slot.  Orient the micro SD card as shown and press it into the SD card reader slot -- you'll press it all the way in until it clicks and stops and then as you let off the pressure it'll click a second time. If it seems to not seat, remove the card and try again. ![Inserting a microSD card into the slot on the MEMENTO with the gold fingers visible from the back side of the camera](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/216/medium640/camera_adabox_membuild-7228.jpg?1754940064) ![A view of MEMENTO with the microSD card in the microSD slot on the circuit board but not yet fully pressed in](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/217/medium640/camera_adabox_membuild-7229.jpg?1754940107) ![Using a fingernail to press the inserted microSD card into the slot until it clicks, indicating a positive connection](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/218/medium640/camera_20240221_105532_microsd.jpg?1754940162) ![A pictire of the side of the MEMENTO with a fully inserted microSD card](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/219/medium640/camera_adabox_membuild-7230.jpg?1754940197) ## Power On ![Viewing the top of the MEMENTO which shows the location of the on/off slide switch as towards the left. Sliding the switch to the right turns the camera on. The shutter momentary switch is on the right side on the top](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/006/medium800thumb/camera_turn_on.jpg?1754940299 ) With your MEMENTO fully assembled, look on the top left from the rear of the camera. There is a slide switch marked ➡On. Using your fingernail, slide the switch towards the **right**. When you want to turn the camera off, slide the same switch towards the left and watch for the display to power off. When the camera is off, it is safe to remove the microSD card by pressing on the edge, waiting for it to disengage, then gently pulling it out. # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Charging the Battery During assembly, the battery was plugged into the MEMENTO main board before sandwiching on the rear cover. The battery need not be removed under normal use. It is rechargeable.  ![The MEMENTO front half circuit board with a battery connected to a jack on the right side of the board and the battery is taped down nearby](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/045/medium640/camera_battery1.jpg?1754940400) ![The MEMENTO camera fully assembled on a table with the back facing the viewer](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/046/medium640/camera_battery2.jpg?1754940456) To charge the battery, simply plug in a USB-C cable into the USB-C port on the left side of the camera. The back of the MEMENTO shows "USB-C" where the jack is located. Plug the other end of the cable into either a USB charging block, a computer USB port, or a USB battery power bank (often called a "lipstick" battery, used to charge mobile phones). ![The right and front sides of MEMENTO showing the USB-C port (with a USB-C cable attached for charging) and a small yellow LED light next to the USB-C connector indicating the camera is charging](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/047/medium800/camera_battery3.jpg?1754940557 ) While the camera battery is charging, the tiny yellow light near the USB-C port will be lit yellow. The camera does not need to be on to show the charging status light. When the battery is fully charged, that yellow LED light will be off. You can use your MEMENTO even while the battery is charging. ## Battery Status The default stock camera program loaded on MEMENTO from the factory displays the battery voltage. The battery sinking from the full charge 3.7 volts can provide indication of the battery needing a charge. ![A rear view of MEMENTO, turned on and facing outward. A red circle on the screen shows the camera displaying the battery voltage](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/050/medium800/camera_battery_4.jpg?1754940615 ) The CircuitPython Fancy Camera app does not currently have a battery indicator but one could be added by the user. # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## The Stock Camera App When you assemble the MEMENTO and turn it on, it will run a basic camera application from the factory. It is a perfectly functional basic camera.  More advanced functionality will be obtained when loading the camera with CircuitPython and CircuitPython apps. This page documents the factory software for your information. It is recommended you use the alternative CircuitPython apps listed later in this guide to gain other capabilities. ![The rear of the MEMENTO camera with a red box showing the location of the microSD card slot on the right side, bottom](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/750/medium800/camera_one_one.png?1754940681 ) ## The microSD Card The images are stored on the inserted microSD card inserted into the slot in the lower right portion of the camera looking at the rear. Warning: Info: ![The MEMENTO oriented to show the right side, now up. The microSD card slot is then on the left. Fingers hold a microSD card next to the camera](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/140/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1754940754 ) With the MEMENTO power off, take a microSD card with the non-straight edge to the right and printing on top (gold contacts on the bottom), insert the card into the slot where microSD is printed on the back of the camera. It is below the connector used to provide power and signal to the lights on the front of the camera (if installed). Insert the card loosely, wiggle if it feels tight. Do not force it, if it will not go in, check for the correct orientation. ![A microSD card has been inserted into MEMENTO with the gold contacts facing the rear of the camera. The card is still sticking up indicating it has not been fully inserted to click](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/141/medium800/camera_20240221_105532_microsd_a.jpg?1754940853 ) Press the card in until it clicks. Do not force it if it appears to not want to go in - in that case remove the card, check the orientation, and try again. ## If Your microSD Card is Not Formatted Prior to Use Refer to the page below on formatting the card you are not using a formatted microSD card. If you have a fresh microSD card from Adafruit, it should already be formatted (although suppliers can miss it and it may need formatting). ### Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board - microSD Card Formatting Notes [Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board) [microSD Card Formatting Notes](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/formatting-notes) ## Turning On Your Camera ![A top view of MEMENTO shhowing the On slide switch on the left and the shutter button on the right](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/143/medium800thumb/camera_turn_on.jpg?1754940888 ) With your MEMENTO camera fully assembled, look on the top left. There is a slide switch marked ➡On. Using your fingernail, slide the switch towards the right. The display will then show what the camera sees. A small green LED next to the power switch will be on. If the green LED isn't on, and the display is dark, see the previous page about charging the battery. ## Taking a Picture ![A rear view of MEMENTO with the camera on showing the camera image on the rear display with status information overlaid on the screen](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/019/medium800/camera_20240219_125050.jpg?1754940943 ) The LCD display on the rear frames the shot.  ![Holding the MEMENTO aimed at a target with the shutter button, on top right of camera circled. A finger is placed to take a picture.](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/021/medium800/camera_20240219_144714c.jpg?1754940999 ) Press the shutter button to take a picture. It's located at the top of the camera to the right. Images are numbered sequentially IMAGE0000.jpg, IMAGE0001.jpg, etc. on the microSD card. To download the images, you'll need to remove the microSD card. How to do this is as follows: Warning: ![An animated GIF showing turning off MEMENTO with the slide switch at the top left of the camera](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/077/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1754941036 ) Turn your MEMENTO off by sliding the power switch to the left. The display and any LEDs seen from the top should go dark. ![Pushing on the microSD card to have it pop out of it's holder](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/022/medium800/camera_20240221_105532_microsd_a.jpg?1754941068 ) Once the camera is off, you can gently push on the microSD card and it will disengage and can be removed. You can insert the card in a USB card reader and connect that to your computer to view the picture files. Be sure to put the microSD back in the MEMENTO before trying out the settings listed below. ## Changing Settings The four buttons in a diamond pattern on the rear of the camera allow you to make settings adjustments. ### Image Resolution ![The rear of MEMENTO with the four "D-pad" buttons showing left, right, top, and bottom switches for using the on-screen menu system](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/082/medium800/camera_20240219_130543_buttons.jpg?1754941121 ) ![The rear of MEMENTO with a picture on screen and the image size circled](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/753/medium800/camera_20240219_130543a.jpg?1754941153 ) The current resolution is shown overlaid near the bottom of the screen. Above, the circled in red text shows "Size: 1024x768". The **Up**  button changes the image resolution from the base 640x480 (default) to one of the following: - 160x120 - 320x240 - 480x320 - 640x480 - 800x640 - 1024x768 - 1280x720 - 1280x1024 - 1600x1200 - 2048x1536 - 2560x1920 (highest) For the best picture quality, select 2560x1920. 640x480 images are about 50k bytes, 160x120 images are about 6kb. 2560x1920 images are about 320kb. Actual sizes will vary depending on the subject and JPEG compression.  ### Filters ![The rear of MEMENTO with an image which has been taken with the Sepia filter on, looking a yellowish color](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/752/medium800/camera_20240219_125036a.jpg?1754941195 The filter has been changed in the image shown here to save images as yellow tinted (sepia).) The **Left** and **Right** buttons in the four button cluster control various filters. When the camera is powered on, there is no filter applied, it is a standard color image. The **Right** button cycles through various filters: sepia (yellow), blue, green, red, greyscale, reverse image and back to normal. The **Left** button cycles through the same effects in the reverse direction. The stock application has limited ways to change settings. If you want more advanced functions, continue reading this guide's subsequent pages for using the CircuitPython app. ## Software to Revert to Factory Functionality Customers often ask for the software to get a product back to the working state from the factory. Follow the guide page listed below. ### Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board - Factory Reset [Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board) [Factory Reset](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/factory-reset) The source for the factory code is available [on GitHub](https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_PyCamera/blob/main/examples/pycamera_test/pycamera_test.ino): [Factory Basic Camera Code (Arduino)](https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_PyCamera/blob/main/examples/pycamera_test/pycamera_test.ino) Info: # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Install CircuitPython [CircuitPython](https://github.com/adafruit/circuitpython) is a derivative of [MicroPython](https://micropython.org) designed to simplify experimentation and education on low-cost microcontrollers. It makes it easier than ever to get prototyping by requiring no upfront desktop software downloads. Simply copy and edit files on the **CIRCUITPY** drive to iterate. ## CircuitPython Quickstart Follow this step-by-step to quickly get CircuitPython running on your board. Warning: Make sure you use CircuitPython 9.0.0 final or later. CircuitPython 9.0.0-beta.1 and earlier have a bug that can corrupt the fileystem. ```auto import storage storage.erase_filesystem() ``` Your board will reboot after running this. [Download the latest version of CircuitPython for this board via circuitpython.org](https://circuitpython.org/board/adafruit_esp32s3_camera/) Warning: As of CircuitPython 9, you'll need to create a folder called "sd" on your CIRCUITPY drive to mount the microSD card, if it's not already there. [Follow these steps to create the /sd directory](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/circuitpython-memento-starter-projects) **Click the link above to download the latest CircuitPython UF2 file.** Save it wherever is convenient for you. ![install_circuitpython_on_most_boards_CircuitPython_downloaded.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/102/129/medium640/install_circuitpython_on_most_boards_CircuitPython_downloaded.jpg?1620922559) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/126/734/medium800/adafruit_products_resetNeo.jpg?1702908010) Plug your board into your computer, using a known-good data-sync cable, directly, or via an adapter if needed. Double-click the **reset** button (highlighted in red above), and you will see the **RGB status LED(s)** turn green (highlighted in green above). If you see red, try another port, or if you're using an adapter or hub, try without the hub, or different adapter or hub. For this board, tap reset and wait for the LED to turn purple, and as soon as it turns purple, tap reset again. The second tap needs to happen while the LED is still purple. If you do not see the LED turning purple, you will need to reinstall the UF2 bootloader. See the **Factory Reset** page in this guide for details. If double-clicking doesn't work the first time, try again. Sometimes it can take a few tries to get the rhythm right! A lot of people end up using charge-only USB cables and it is very frustrating! **Make sure you have a USB cable you know is good for data sync.** You will see a new disk drive appear called **CAMERABOOT**. Drag the **adafruit-circuitpython-adafruit\_esp32s3\_camera-etc.uf2** file to **CAMERABOOT**. ![adafruit_products_cameraboot.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/126/740/medium640/adafruit_products_cameraboot.png?1702932896) The **BOOT** drive will disappear and a new disk drive called **CIRCUITPY** will appear. That's it! ![install_circuitpython_on_most_boards_CIRCUITPY.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/102/130/medium640/install_circuitpython_on_most_boards_CIRCUITPY.jpg?1620923145) # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Install the CircuitPython Fancy Camera App This example from the Adafruit CircuitPython PyCamera library is similar to the Basic Camera, but adds **autofocus** and on-camera user interaction via the MEMENTO's buttons to give you more of a point-and-shoot camera experience. You can use the buttons to adjust: - **resolutions** - **effects** - **modes** - **optional NeoPixel LED colors** Format your SD card if necessary and insert it in the MEMENTO SD card reader as shown on the [Basic Camera page](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/basic-camera). ### CircuitPython Be sure you've [installed CircuitPython on your MEMENTO](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/install-circuitpython) before proceeding. ## Download the Project Bundle Your project will use a specific set of CircuitPython libraries, and the  **code.py**  file. To get everything you need, click on the  **Download Project Bundle**  button below, and uncompress the .zip file. Connect your computer to the board via a known good USB power+data cable. A new flash drive should show up as  **CIRCUITPY**. Drag the contents of the uncompressed bundle directory for the version of CircuitPython you're running (e.g., **/examples/camera/CircuitPython 9.x/** ) onto your board's **CIRCUITPY**  drive, replacing any existing files or directories with the same names, and adding any new ones that are necessary. ![adafruit_products_Screenshot_2024-02-26_at_8.10.59_AM.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/015/medium640/adafruit_products_Screenshot_2024-02-26_at_8.10.59_AM.jpg?1708963901) https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_CircuitPython_PyCamera/blob/main/examples/camera/code.py ## Use the Camera Taking pictures is just as simple as with the Basic Camera -- you could say it's a snap -- simply follow these two steps: 1. point the MEMENTO at a subject while framing it in the display 2. press-and-release the shutter button fairly quickly ### Autofocus However, now you can use the autofocus feature to help keep closer subjects looking sharp: 1. point the MEMENTO at a subject while framing it in the display 2. press-and-hold the shutter button until you hear the beep (you should also see the focus change if there is a close subject in frame) 3. release the shutter button to finish enabling autofocus 4. press-and-release the shutter button to snap your pic! I ate the banana. So now we have a can of Liquid Wrench to take its place. Which is great, because it is still yellow, but has a lot more detail on which to focus! In the first photo, the MEMENTO's default distant focus is shown. Note how the Droid Builders patch is in focus but the mid and foreground objects aren't. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/126/874/medium800/adafruit_products_default_focus.jpg?1704415920 Default infinite focus) For this second shot I pointed the camera at the can of Liquid Wrench, held the shutter button to set the MEMENTO's autofocus, released it, then aimed it back at the patch and snapped the pic. Such nice close-up focus! ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/126/875/medium800/adafruit_products_autofocus.jpg?1704416127 Autofocus on near subject) ## Settings While the Basic Camera example settings could only be changed directly in code, in the Fancy Camera example you can use the MEMENTO's four directional buttons to change settings on the fly. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/126/877/medium800/adafruit_products_mem_buttns.jpg?1704419726) - press **Right** button to pick a menu category **Resolution** , **Effect** , or **Mode** - the category will be highlighted - press **Up** or **Down** buttons to select the choices within the mode: - **Resolution** will page through the different available resolutions - **Effect** picks the different effects, such as **Normal** , **Invert** , **B&W** , **Reddish** , **Sepia** , **Solarize** , etc. - **Mode** will flip between **JPEG** , **GIF** , **GBOY, STOP** , **LAPS (we'll cover stop motion mode and timelapse modes elsewhere in this guide)** ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/126/879/medium800thumb/adafruit_products_fancycamUI2.jpg?1704431286) # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Taking Your First Photo ## Inserting a microSD Memory Card If your MEMENTO is powered on, turn it off prior to removing the microSD card. ![An animated GIF showing turning MEMENTO on using the top left slide switch](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/051/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1754941289 ) Warning: ![Another moving image of the microSD card slot showing the microSD card being inserted with the gold fingers towards the user](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/788/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1754942495 Inserting the microSD card into MEMENTO) With the MEMENTO power off, take a microSD card with the non-straight edge to the right and printing on top (gold contacts on the bottom), insert the card into the slot where microSD is printed on the back of the camera. It is below the connector used to provide power and signal to the lights on the front of the camera (if installed). Insert the card loosely, wiggle if it feels tight. Do not force it, if it will not go in, check for the correct orientation. ![Pushing down on an inserted microSD card to get it to lock in place](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/874/medium800/camera_20240221_105532_microsd_a.jpg?1754942503 ) When it is in, press the edge of the card until you feel a click. The card is then seated. ## Power On ![A top view of MEMENTO with the power switch on the left, shutter button on the right](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/787/medium800thumb/camera_turn_on.jpg?1754942513 ) With your MEMENTO camera fully assembled, look on the top left. There is a slide switch marked ➡On. Using your fingernail, slide the switch towards the right. ![Tthe LCD display, back of MEMENTO with status info on the top and bottom of the display: Upper left image size in pixels, upper right, SD inserted (OK green, not red), lower left the mode (showing normal) and lower right, showing JPEG images will be taken](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/771/medium800/camera_view.jpg?1754942725 ) When you turn your camera on for the first time with the CircuitPython "Fancy Camera" program loaded, you'll see a screen similar to above. The screen should look like this: “240x240”, “Normal”, “JPEG”, “SD OK”. ![Two side by side images of the back of MEMENTO showing "NO SD" on left and "SD OK" on right in upper left corner of screen ](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/055/medium800/camera_sd_both.jpg?1754943081 ) If the upper right text says "NO SD", turn the camera off using the power button on the top left of body. Insert (or reinsert) a microSD card. If you believe a card is in there, be sure it is seated properly with a click at the end. If the card still is not registering, it might not be formatted. Power the MEMENTO off and remove the microSD card. Insert the card into a USB card reader to see if your computer recognizes it as formatted. If there are files on it, it should be formatted. If your computer cannot read the card, it may be unformatted. If you determine the card is unformatted, you can follow the formatting instructions in the guide page below. Warning: ### Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board - microSD Card Formatting Notes [Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board) [microSD Card Formatting Notes](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/formatting-notes) With the MEMENTO still powered off, reinsert the (freshly formatted) microSD card and power the camera back on. The display in the upper right should now show "SD Ok" in green. ## Taking a Picture ![The rear of MEMENTO turned on, ready to take an image](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/878/medium800/camera_20240219_144714a.jpg?1754943103 ) Taking pictures is similar to any camera -- simply follow these two steps: Point the MEMENTO at a subject while framing it in the display ![Upper right via back of MEMENTO, right side of top, shutter button circled in red](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/758/medium800/camera_20240219_144714b.jpg?1754943136 ) Press-and-release the shutter button fairly quickly ![Rear and top of MEMENTO with a finger depressing the shutter button momentarily](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/763/medium800/camera_20240219_145940a.jpg?1754943165 ) When the shutter engages, you will hear a sound from the speaker and on the screen you'll see the word Snap! appear in the center of the screen. Congratulations, you've taken your first picture! ## Focusing ![The MEMENTO being held, rear to viewer, finger on shutter button held to have camera autofocus](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/876/medium800/camera_20240221_111644_shutter_a.jpg?1754943209 ) Like commercial cameras, MEMENTO is capable of autofocusing on an object (using a tiny motor in the lens). Press shutter button for a second (e.g., “long-press”) to focus on the object in the center of the frame. Release the shutter button once it has focused Press/release the shutter button to snap a photo (e.g., a “short-press"). ## Have Fun Go ahead and take some pictures! See the next page for detailed instructions on powering off your camera, removing the microSD card and looking at the pictures on your computer. Subsequent pages go over how to set your MEMENTO for higher resolution images and how to use special effects. Warning: # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Getting Photos off the microSD Card ## Where is my Picture? Danger: ![Turning MEMENTO off via the top left slide switch](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/052/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1754943317 ) Turn off your camera using the power switch on the top left of the camera.  The display will go dark and any LEDs visible from the top of MEMENTO will be off. Remove the microSD card by gently pressing in on the card and then letting it pop out. Grasp it once it's popped out. ![MEMENTO shown with the power switch off](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/872/medium640/camera_20240221_105355_on_off_a.jpg?1754943348) ![MEMENTO right side, pushing on the microSD card to have it pop out of the socket](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/873/medium640/camera_20240221_105532_microsd_a.jpg?1754943383) Load the card into a USB card reader and connect it to your computer (Windows/Mac/Linux/Chromebook, etc.). ![Pictures off various microSD card readers to use with a PC](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/790/medium800/camera_20240220_111857a.jpg?1754943426 USB card readers some in many shapes and sizes. Use one that fits the USB ports in your computer.) ### USB Type C microSD Card Reader/Writer [USB Type C microSD Card Reader/Writer](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5212) This is the cutest little **USB C microSD Card Reader/Writer** , but don't be fooled by its adorableness! Simply pop the card into the edge and plug it into your computer or device. No drivers are required; it shows up as a standard 'Mass Storage' device under any... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5212) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5212/guides) ![Angled shot of a microSD card reader with a key chain plugged into a laptop port.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/5212-06.jpg) The card reader should show up as a new flash disk in your File Explorer/Finder (which depends on your operating system). Below is a Windows File Explorer image of a microSD card showing two files: IMAGE0000.jpg and img0000.jpg. ![A Windows File Explorer screen showing the contents of the MEMENTO microSD card](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/766/medium800/camera_Screenshot_2024-02-19_151030.png?1754943465 ) IMAGE0000.jpg is from the factory demo program. img0000.jpg is the view taken below with the CircuitPython Fancy Camera **code.py**. Other operating systems would show the microSD files similarly. Opening the file img0000.jpg, it shows the image just taken with the camera: ![An image taken from MEMENTO and viewed on ones PC](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/767/medium800/camera_img0002.jpg?1754943487 ) The resolution is only 240x240 pixels by default (rather low) and there is no lighting on the subject. Changing those will be demonstrated in upcoming Quick Start pages. You'll notice that the text showing you the resolution and image type **does not** appear on the saved photo. The text only appears on the screen for your information. ## Saving Your Pictures It is a good practice to save your pictures on backup media. While the microSD card will likely be able to hold many files, if you were to lose the card (or camera!), your pictures would be lost.  ![Showing copying images off of the microSD card to ones hard drive in Windows (mac, Linux similar)](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/791/medium800/camera_copy_files.png?1754943528 ) While you have your card out of the camera and in a USB card reader, copy them either to your computer storage drive or an external drive. Use your File Explorer / Finder (operating system dependent) to copy the files. You can also delete images you do not want. If you know you have a safe backup of your images, you can delete images on the card to make more space. ## Putting your microSD Card Back in Your Camera ![Windows screen showing how to eject a removable drive to avoid data loss](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/779/medium800/camera_eject.png?1754943554 ) Use the Eject drive function of your computer to safely be able to remove the USB card reader from the USB port. On Windows, right click the drive and select Eject (see above). Primary: Remove the microSD card from the card reader. ![AN animated image showing turning on MEMENTO on top left](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/053/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1754943933 ) Ensure the MEMENTO is powered off. The display should be dark and no led lights should be on looking down into the top of the camera. ![An animated image loading a microSD card](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/789/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1754943952 How to insert a microSD card into MEMENTO) Take the microSD card and place it back in the camera by pushing it into the card slot until it clicks into place. ![Two images, one showing "NO SD" in upper right of screen, one "SD OK" in upper right of screen](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/054/medium800/camera_sd_both.jpg?1754944002 ) Now you can turn on your MEMENTO camera. The upper right corner of the screen should say in green "SD Ok". If it says "NO SD" in red, turn the power off and be sure the card is seated properly. Now to look at take some better photos in the following pages. # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Adjusting Photo Resolution You can use the MEMENTO's four directional buttons to change different camera settings on the fly. ![Moving image turning MEMENTO off](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/092/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1754944036 ) Be sure the MEMENTO is powered off. The display should be dark and no LED lights visible from the top of the camera. ![Moving image inserting a microSD card into MEMENTO](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/093/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1754944057 ) Place a microSD card into the microSD card slot. Power on the camera. ## Changing the Resolution MEMENTO Uses to Take Pictures ![The rear of MEMENTO with the Dpad 4 buttone showing top, bottom, left and right](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/081/medium800/camera_20240219_144714a_buttons.jpg?1754944094 ) Press the **Right** button to pick a menu category: **Resolution** , **Effect** , or **Mode.** When one of those is highlighted, re. black text on a white background (instead of white text on a black background), it is highlighted. Hover over **Resolution** (black lettering on a white background in the upper left corner of the display). ![the rear of MEMENTO's display, the image resolution is in the upper left of the LCD screen, circled in red](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/880/medium800/camera_resolution.png?1754944139 ) The **Up** and **Down** buttons change the image resolution to one of the following: - 160x120 - 320x240 - 480x320 - 640x480 - 800x640 - 1024x768 - 1280x720 - 1280x1024 - 1600x1200 - 2048x1536 - 2560x1920 (highest) For the best picture quality, select 2560x1920. 640x480 images are about 50k bytes, 160x120 images are about 6kb. 2560x1920 images are about 320k bytes. Actual sizes will vary depending on the subject and JPEG compression.  ![A moving image showing the MEMENTO image resolution being changed using the Dpad keys](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/879/medium800thumb/camera_resolution_changes.jpg?1754944176 Changing the photo capture resolutions) ## Take Your Photo Now with the resolution chosen, you can take your pictures as noted on previous pages. Savor the glory of megapixels of resolution (or not). ## Your Settings Are Saved Automatically The MEMENTO uses non-volatile memory (NVM) to remember your settings, so next time your power on the MEMENTO, the resolution will still be set to the value you chose previously. # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Filters and Effects The code has several fun filters and effects for photos. Feel free to be creative in how you take your pictures. ## Getting Started ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/094/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1709048109) Be sure the MEMENTO is powered off. The display should be dark and no LED lights visible from the top of the camera. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/096/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1709048129) Place a microSD card into the microSD card slot. Power on the camera. ## Filters & Effects Press the **Right** button to highlight the word "Normal" in the lower left corner of the display. This is the adjust filter mode. ![camera_20240219_144714a_buttons.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/097/medium640/camera_20240219_144714a_buttons.jpg?1709048226) ![camera_20240220_132319a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/098/medium640/camera_20240220_132319a.jpg?1709048265) Press **Up** or **Down** buttons to select the choices within the filter mode: - Normal image mode (color) - Invert - B&W (grayscale) - Reddish - Greenish - Bluish - Sepia (yellow tones) - Solarize (invert) ![camera_20240220_132319a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/793/medium640/camera_20240220_132319a.jpg?1708453878) ![camera_20240220_132330a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/795/medium640/camera_20240220_132330a.jpg?1708453999) ![camera_20240220_132339a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/796/medium640/camera_20240220_132339a.jpg?1708454147) ![camera_20240220_132346a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/797/medium640/camera_20240220_132346a.jpg?1708454238) ![camera_20240220_132352a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/798/medium640/camera_20240220_132352a.jpg?1708455067) ![camera_20240220_132359a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/800/medium640/camera_20240220_132359a.jpg?1708455265) ![camera_20240220_132406a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/801/medium640/camera_20240220_132406a.jpg?1708455315) ![camera_20240220_132412a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/803/medium640/camera_20240220_132412a.jpg?1708455348) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/784/medium800thumb/camera_adafruit_products_fancycamUI-effect.jpg?1708377263) Subsequent pictures will use the chosen effect until it is changed. ## Modes The software also has several different effects modes.  Press the  **Right**  button to highlight "JPEG" in the lower right of the display. This menu allows you to pick among the modes. Press the **Up**  or  **Down**  buttons to select the choices within the effects mode: - JPEG (take JPEG image snapshots) - [GIF](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-camera-quick-start-guide/shooting-an-animated-gif) (create animated GIFs at 240x176 resolution) - GBOY (shoot images that are 1-bit black & white dots like the Gameboy camera) - STOP (shoot a series of JPEG images for stop motion animation, includes translucent "onion skin" overlay of previous frame) - LAPS (create a series of time lapse images) JPEG is the standard mode for taking pictures. GIF takes small animated GIFs and is covered in later pages along with STOP motion and time lapse (LAPS). GBOY mode stands for Game Boy. The Game Boy camera from Nintendo produced small black and white images via [_stippling_](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stippling), small dots spaced such that the eye sees an image. For many, a low resolution image taken in this mode will remind them of the Nintendo Gameboy camera. These are shot at 240x240 resolution and saved to the microSD card as single frame GIF files. ![camera_20240220_162631_gboy_a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/866/medium640/camera_20240220_162631_gboy_a.jpg?1708481216) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/786/medium800thumb/camera_adafruit_products_fancycamUI-effect.jpg?1708378145) Once you have selected the filter and/or effect, have fun taking pictures beyond the standard color image. # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Using the LED Ring, Brightness and Color ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/816/medium800/camera_adabox_membuild-_leds.jpg?1708456363) If you have the MEMENTO camera enclosure kit, the front, decorated with the Adafruit logo, has a ring of eight NeoPixel LEDs around the lens opening. These can light your subjects with different light levels and colors. Take photos with different light levels and colors to see dark objects more clearly and to add some artistic tint. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/882/medium800/camera_cable.jpg?1708534511) Make sure you have also connected the cable between the MEMENTO A1 port and the front panel with the lights on it (it won't work without it). Refer to the guide page below on how it is assembled. ### AdaBox 021 - MEMENTO Assembly [AdaBox 021](https://learn.adafruit.com/adabox021) [MEMENTO Assembly](https://learn.adafruit.com/adabox021/memento-assembly) ## Get Ready Be sure your MEMENTO is powered off. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/105/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1709048594) Load a microSD card into your MEMENTO. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/102/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1709048537) Warning: ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/106/medium800thumb/camera_turn_on.jpg?1709048616) Now you can turn on your camera. ## Setting the Light Level ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/884/medium800/camera_20240221_120131_lv_a.jpg?1708535045) Press and release the **Right** button to pick the LED LV (LED level) menu (it will highlight and invert the text, you can cycle through all menus or press **Left** if you pass it). It shows up in the upper left corner of the display, where the resolution is most often shown. Press **Up** or **Down** to cycle between five brightness level presets for the LEDs (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%). ![camera_20240220_152547.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/854/medium640/camera_20240220_152547.jpg?1708480851) ![camera_20240220_152602.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/855/medium640/camera_20240220_152602.jpg?1708481052) ![camera_20240220_152615.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/856/medium640/camera_20240220_152615.jpg?1708481198) ![camera_20240220_152627.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/857/medium640/camera_20240220_152627.jpg?1708464322) ![camera_20240220_152642.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/858/medium640/camera_20240220_152642.jpg?1708481058) ## Setting the LED Color ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/885/medium800/camera_20240221_120518_clr_a.jpg?1708535229) To change the color of the NeoPixel ring, press and release **Right** button to pick the LED CLR (LED color) menu. LED CLR will be shown in the upper left corner of the display (where the resolution is usually displayed). Press **Up** or **Down** to cycle between the color presets: warm white, green, yellow, red, purple, blue, cyan, or rainbow. ![camera_20240220_145343.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/829/medium640/camera_20240220_145343.jpg?1708463231) ![camera_20240220_145156.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/831/medium640/camera_20240220_145156.jpg?1708462725) ![camera_20240220_145220.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/833/medium640/camera_20240220_145220.jpg?1708462854) ![camera_20240220_145233.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/835/medium640/camera_20240220_145233.jpg?1708461758) ![camera_20240220_145243.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/850/medium640/camera_20240220_145243.jpg?1708462862) ![camera_20240220_145303.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/851/medium640/camera_20240220_145303.jpg?1708464065) ![camera_20240220_145316.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/852/medium640/camera_20240220_145316.jpg?1708464075) ![camera_20240220_145326.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/853/medium640/camera_20240220_145326.jpg?1708463360) ## Taking Pictures Once you have the lighting set, the NeoPixel ring will illuminate your subjects. All kinds of effects are possible, especially with colored lights. ## On Power Cycle or Reset The LEDs will be off after power cycling or resetting MEMENTO, the setting is not saved. # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Shooting an Animated GIF ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/860/medium800thumb/camera_adafruit_products_img0014.jpg?1708480470) You can create short animated GIFs with the MEMENTO, perfect for sharing in text chats! The Fancy Camera CircuitPython program will record a 15 frame, 240x176 pixel GIF\* of about two seconds in duration each time you press and release the shutter button. ## Getting Started ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/108/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1709048971) Be sure the MEMENTO is powered off. The display should be dark and no LED lights visible from the top of the camera. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/110/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1709049010) Place a microSD card into the microSD card slot.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/111/medium800thumb/camera_turn_on.jpg?1709049041) Power on the camera. ## Putting the Camera in GIF Mode Press and release **Right** button to pick the Mode menu in the lower right of the display (by default it says JPEG). Press and release the Up button to cycle between modes to get to GIF mode. The resolution is no longer displayed. That's ok (as GIF making is fixed at 240x176 pixels). ![camera_20240219_144714a_buttons.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/112/medium640/camera_20240219_144714a_buttons.jpg?1709049831) ![camera_20240220_155421_gif_a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/119/medium640/camera_20240220_155421_gif_a.jpg?1709050603) ## Make a GIF ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/056/medium800/camera_gif_2.jpg?1708992320) Now, you can frame your shot. Press and release the shutter button to record a two-second GIF animation. The GIF is saved automatically to the SD card. There is no on-camera preview after you've taken the shot, so you'll need to put the SD card in your computer's SD card reader to view the results. Warning: Info: You can also still use the long-press focus technique to get a nice sharp focus on your subject. Note: this will be a two-second long GIF, so don’t try to shoot anything too elaborate! ## Taking Animated GIF Images with Effects ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/863/medium800thumb/camera_adafruit_products_img0001_3.jpg?1708480507) The default GIF is created without effects applied, but you can get creative by picking built-in effects before shooting a GIF. Press the right button to highlight the effect menu item, by default it is the  **Normal**  effect. Press up/down to cycle between the effects: - Normal image mode (color) - Invert - B&W (grayscale) - Reddish - Greenish - Bluish - Sepia (yellow tones) - Solarize (invert) ![camera_20240220_132319a_gif.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/033/medium640/camera_20240220_132319a_gif.jpg?1708982325) ![camera_20240220_132330a_gif.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/034/medium640/camera_20240220_132330a_gif.jpg?1708982405) ![camera_20240220_132339a_gif.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/035/medium640/camera_20240220_132339a_gif.jpg?1708982460) ![camera_20240220_132346a_gif.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/036/medium640/camera_20240220_132346a_gif.jpg?1708982504) ![camera_20240220_132352a_gif.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/037/medium640/camera_20240220_132352a_gif.jpg?1708982558) ![camera_20240220_132359a_gif.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/038/medium640/camera_20240220_132359a_gif.jpg?1708982694) ![camera_20240220_132406a_gif.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/039/medium640/camera_20240220_132406a_gif.jpg?1708982794) ![camera_20240220_132412a_gif.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/040/medium640/camera_20240220_132412a_gif.jpg?1708982895) Then, shoot your GIF by pressing the shutter button as usual.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/862/medium800thumb/camera_adafruit_products_img0000_3.jpg?1708464359 An animated GIF made using the solarize effect.) ## NeoPixel Lighting ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/032/medium800/camera_20240220_152602.jpg?1708982290) You can also add some NeoPixel lighting to your GIFs if you have the MEMENTO Camera Enclosure kit attached and connected using the short the JST cable (shown above on the left). Using the four rear buttons in the diamond configuration, press the **Right** button until  **LED LV**  is highlighted, then press **Up** to pick a pre-set lighting level. Press the **Right** button again to highlight  **LED CLR** , then press the **Up** button to pick a pre-set color. Here's an example of a weird guy with some magenta lighting that look particularly strange. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/864/medium800thumb/camera_adafruit_products_img0000.jpg?1708480497) ## Post Processing You can also use GIF editing tools ([online](https://ezgif.com/) or applications) to further edit your GIFs. Here's an example of creating a looping version of the basketball animation by doubling and re-ordering the frames: ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/865/medium800thumb/camera_adafruit_products_img0014_loop.jpg?1708464039)       \* Pronounced  **_GHIF_**  as in. _" **G** ood  **g** rief,  **g** ive me a break,  **g** o  **g** et some peanut butter for your  **g** raphics if you wanna say 'JIF'."_ Don't @ me bro. # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Stop Motion You can create stop motion animation with MEMENTO. Channel your inner Gumby, Wallace & Grommet, or Thunderbirds. LEGO minifigs are great. If you have AdaBox 021, there may be something in the box to help you do stop motion with. ## Getting Started ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/132/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1709051186) Be sure the MEMENTO is powered off. The display should be dark and no LED lights visible from the top of the camera. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/133/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1709051222) Place a microSD card into the microSD card slot.  With your MEMENTO off (unpowered), ensure you have a microSD card in the card slot and it is fully seated with a click. ![camera_20240221_105532_microsd_a.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/955/medium640/camera_20240221_105532_microsd_a.jpg?1708718133) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/135/medium800thumb/camera_turn_on.jpg?1709051275) Power on the camera. If the microSD card is seated properly, "SD Ok" will be on the display in green in the top right of the display. If it says "NO SD" in red, turn the camera off and reseat the card. ![camera_stop.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/957/medium640/camera_stop.jpg?1708718688) ![camera_sd_no.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/057/medium640/camera_sd_no.jpg?1708997944) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/137/medium800/camera_20240219_144714a_buttons.jpg?1709051381) Press and release the **Right** button to pick the Mode menu (by default it reads “JPEG” in the lower left of the display). ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/138/medium800/camera_stop_%28edit%29.jpg?1709051471) Press and release the **Up** button to cycle between modes and get to the “STOP” item. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/959/medium800/camera_stop2.jpg?1708719203) You may want to pick a reasonable resolution for creating a movie from your frames, such as 1920x1080 (typical 1080p HD resolution). Use the **Right** button to highlight the resolution then the **Up** button to get to the desired resolution. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/960/medium800/camera_stop3.jpg?1708719368) Set your MEMENTO on a stable surface or secure it with a tripod mount case or other means. Long-press the shutter button to focus on the center frame subject, such as a posing mannequin. Then a short press to take the picture. ## Making Adjustments Between Shots ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/146/medium800/camera_adafruit_products_stickypose.jpeg?1709058705) Adjust your subject, such as moving the arm of the mannequin. Do a short press of the shutter button to shoot the next frame. Repeat for as many frames as you want — typically stop motion is shot at 12 frames per second or even fewer when you’re first starting, so keep this in mind as you animate. ## Making an Animated GIF or Video from the Still Images Shoot a short test. Turn off your MEMENTO and remove the microSD card. Insert the card into a USB card reader then copy the frames to your computer and preview them. You can use [ezgif.com/maker](https://ezgif.com/maker) on the web to create an animated GIF. See [this guide page](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/frames-to-gifs) on how to do this. You can also use a video editor such as Adobe Premiere or DaVinci Resolve to import the still images and create a movie. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/961/medium800thumb/camera_adafruit_products_wave1.jpg?1708719732) ## Going Further For more in-depth information, check out the following guides: ### Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board - Stop Motion [Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board) [Stop Motion](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/stop-motion) ### Stop Motion Animation - Overview [Stop Motion Animation](https://learn.adafruit.com/stop-motion-animation) [Overview](https://learn.adafruit.com/stop-motion-animation/overview) # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Timelapse Photography The MEMENTO software allows for timelapse image capture -- a sequence of photos shot automatically with a set time interval between each shot. ## Getting Started ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/147/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1709058801) Be sure the MEMENTO is powered off. The display should be dark and no LED lights visible from the top of the camera. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/148/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1709058831) Place a microSD card into the microSD card slot.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/149/medium800thumb/camera_turn_on.jpg?1709058852) Power on the camera. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/150/medium800/camera_sd_both.jpg?1709058969) If the microSD card is seated properly, "SD Ok" will be on the display in green in the top right of the display. If it says "NO SD" in red, turn the camera off and reseat the card. Press and release the **Up** button to cycle among modes and get to the “LAPS” item. ![camera_20240219_144714a_buttons.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/151/medium640/camera_20240219_144714a_buttons.jpg?1709059072) ![camera_laps.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/152/medium640/camera_laps.jpg?1709059144) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/977/medium800/camera_laps_2.jpg?1708720795) To change the interval between captures, press the **Right** button to get to the interval item (by default, “5 S” for 5 seconds). Press **Up** or **Down** to change the interval from 5 seconds up to 60 minutes between shots. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/979/medium800/camera_laps_4.jpg?1708721005) If you’re running on battery power, you can save some power by changing the timelapse power mode. Press the **Select** button to cycle between **LowPwr** (dims the display, refreshes screen once per shot), **MedPwr** (updates display once per shot), or **HiPwr** (live preview). ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/983/medium800/camera_laps_5.jpg?1708721272) You can long-press the shutter button (upper right top of the camera) to focus on your subject. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/986/medium800/camera_laps_6.jpg?1708721543) Press the **OK** button to begin shooting. MEMENTO will shoot frames until you press **OK** button again to stop. ## Making an Animated GIF or Video from the Still Images ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/153/medium800thumb/camera_adafruit_products_skylapse2.jpg?1709059293) Shoot a short test. Turn off your MEMENTO and remove the microSD card. Insert the card into a USB card reader then copy the frames to your computer and preview them. You can use [ezgif.com/maker](https://ezgif.com/maker) on the web to create an animated GIF. See [this guide page](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/frames-to-gifs) on how to do this. You can also use a video editor such as Adobe Premiere or DaVinci Resolve to import the still images and create a movie. Primary: ## Going Further For more in-depth information, check out the following guide: ### Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board - Timelapse [Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board) [Timelapse](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/timelapse) # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Create a Rack Focus Shot Rack focus photography is great for shifting attention between subjects without moving the camera. With a shallow depth of focus, the rack focus makes it clear where we should look, since blur quickly envelopes everything but the subject at the intended focal depth. ## Getting Started ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/154/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1709059443) Be sure the MEMENTO is powered off. The display should be dark and no LED lights visible from the top of the camera. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/155/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1709059478) Place a microSD card into the microSD card slot.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/156/medium800thumb/camera_turn_on.jpg?1709059503) Power on the camera. ## New Code This example and the Macro Photography example use new code not in the CircuitPython Fancy Camera program.  If your camera has the factory camera code, identifiable by a screen at left, you will need to install CircuitPython first. Go to the Install CircuitPython Page in this guide to do so. Then come back here to load the code. ![camera_20240219_130543.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/175/medium640/camera_20240219_130543.jpg?1709063411) Start by downloading the code and library files from the following link to your computer. [Download the CircuitPython Code Bundle](https://learn.adafruit.com/elements/3165430/download?type=zip) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/159/medium800/camera_usb_a.jpg?1709060344) Connect your computer to the camera via a known good USB-C power+data cable. A new flash drive should show up as **CIRCUITPY** in your computer's File Explorer/Finder (depending on your operating system). Find the code zip file you saved above and open it. Drag the contents of the uncompressed bundle directory for the version of CircuitPython you're running (e.g., **/examples/camera/CircuitPython 9.x/** ) onto your MEMENTO **CIRCUITPY** drive, replacing any existing files or directories with the same names, and adding any new ones that are necessary. ![camera_adafruit_products_Screenshot_2024-02-26_at_8.10.59_AM.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/157/medium640/camera_adafruit_products_Screenshot_2024-02-26_at_8.10.59_AM.jpg?1709060041) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/163/medium800/camera_eject_circuitpy.png?1709061886) Use the Eject drive function of your computer to safely be able to remove the USB card reader from the USB port. On Windows, right click the drive and select Eject (see above). Your camera should be ready to do Rack Focus and Macro Photography. To return to the Fancy Camera application, go back to the Install Fancy Camera App page. ## Set Up Your Shot Rack Focus works best on two or more items spaced within one camera frame where the first item is far and subsequent items are nearer until the last item is closest. Set the MEMENTO on a stable surface or attach it to a tripod. Line up your subjects from far to near. ![camera_img0023.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/167/medium640/camera_img0023.jpg?1709062269) ![camera_img0039.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/168/medium640/camera_img0039.jpg?1709062276) ![camera_dist_95.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/169/medium640/camera_dist_95.jpg?1709062332) ## Shoot a Rack Focus Shot Press the shutter release button on the top right of the camera. The MEMENTO will snap pictures at the farthest to nearest depths. ![camera_rack.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/996/medium640/camera_rack.jpg?1708722564) ![camera_rack_4.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/998/medium640/camera_rack_4.jpg?1708723100) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/127/999/medium800/camera_figrowthumbs.jpg?1708723167) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/000/medium800/camera_img0023.jpg?1708723224) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/001/medium800/camera_img0039.jpg?1708723234) Warning: ## Frames to GIFs Turn off your MEMENTO via the power switch. Remove the microSD card from the MEMENTO and insert it into an SD card reader on your computer. Copy the image files to a local directory. Then, you can turn the individual frames into a movie using video editing software, or stitch them into a GIF. [This page](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board/frames-to-gifs) shows you how to do just that!. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/002/medium800thumb/camera_figrow3.jpg?1708723432) With this software loaded, you can also check out Macro Photography with Focus Stacking on the next page. ## Going Further For more in-depth information, check out the following guide: ### MEMENTO Focus Stacking - Rack Focus [MEMENTO Focus Stacking](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-focus-stacking) [Rack Focus](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-focus-stacking/rack-focus) # MEMENTO Camera Quick Start Guide ## Macro Photography with Focus Stacking ## Getting Started ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/171/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1709062920) Be sure the MEMENTO is powered off. The display should be dark and no LED lights visible from the top of the camera. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/172/medium800thumb/camera_insert_card.jpg?1709062956) Place a microSD card into the microSD card slot.  ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/173/medium800thumb/camera_turn_on.jpg?1709062977) Power on the camera. ## New Code This example and the Rack Focus example on the previous page use new code not in the CircuitPython Fancy Camera program.  If your camera has the CircuitPython Fancy Camera program, follow the steps below. If the camera already has the Focus Stacking code, skip to setting up your shot. If your camera has the factory camera code, identifiable by a screen at left, you will need to install CircuitPython first. Go to the Install CircuitPython Page in this guide to do so. Then come back here to load the code. ![camera_20240219_130543.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/176/medium640/camera_20240219_130543.jpg?1709063602) Start by downloading the code and library files from the following link to your computer. [Download the CircuitPython Code Bundle](https://learn.adafruit.com/elements/3165430/download?type=zip) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/177/medium800/camera_usb_a.jpg?1709063659) Connect your computer to the camera via a known good USB-C power+data cable. A new flash drive should show up as  **CIRCUITPY**  in your computer's File Explorer/Finder (depending on your operating system). Find the code zip file you saved above and open it. Drag the contents of the uncompressed bundle directory for the version of CircuitPython you're running (e.g.,  **/examples/camera/CircuitPython 9.x/** ) onto your MEMENTO  **CIRCUITPY**  drive, replacing any existing files or directories with the same names, and adding any new ones that are necessary. ![camera_adafruit_products_Screenshot_2024-02-26_at_8.10.59_AM.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/178/medium640/camera_adafruit_products_Screenshot_2024-02-26_at_8.10.59_AM.jpg?1709063705) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/179/medium800/camera_eject_circuitpy.png?1709063732) Use the Eject drive function of your computer to safely be able to remove the USB card reader from the USB port. On Windows, right click the drive and select Eject (see above). Your camera should be ready to do Rack Focus and Macro Photography. To return to the Fancy Camera application, go back to the Install Fancy Camera App page. ## Set Up Your Shot ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/180/medium800/camera_flower2_set3.jpg?1709064385) Gather your subject(s). There should be some depth to what you are photographing. For example, John Park picked a selection of flowers with lots of color and spatial detail. ## Shoot Your Macro Focus Shot ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/181/medium800/camera_mementoFlowers.jpg?1709064554) Set your MEMENTO on a stable surface or tripod mount, compose your picture. Primary: To start, press the shutter release button. It will start by taking a photo at the farthest focus, then adjust the lens by the lens voice motor coil increment set in the code and repeat until is has taken all the photos up to the nearest possible focus. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/182/medium800thumb/camera_turn_off.jpg?1709064647) Turn off your MEMENTO in preparation of removing the microSD card. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/183/medium800/camera_20240221_105532_microsd_a.jpg?1709064755) With the camera powered off, push down on the microSD card to "unclick" it from the microSD card reader and remove with your fingernails.  Place the microSD card into a USB microSD card reader and plug it into your computer. In your File Explorer/Finder (depending on your operating system) you'll open the drive that pops up when you stick the reader into a USB port. You should see a set of sequential JPEG images. Copy the images to a directory on your computer. ![camera_focus_frames.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/184/medium640/camera_focus_frames.jpg?1709064966) One way to focus stack your images is with the web app [Focus Stacking Online](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-focus-stacking/focusstackingonline.com) Click the  **Add**  button and navigate to your image set. Select the whole set and click  **OK**. Next, click the  **Stack!**  button and wait a few minutes for the images to be processed. When it completes you can save your image by clicking the  **Download**  button. ![camera_fso1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/188/medium640/camera_fso1.jpg?1709066315) ![camera_fso2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/189/medium640/camera_fso2.jpg?1709066337) ![camera_fso3.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/190/medium640/camera_fso3.jpg?1709066347) ![camera_fso4.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/191/medium640/camera_fso4.jpg?1709066403) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/128/192/medium800/camera_fso5.jpg?1709066434) The results can be stunning. ## Further Reading ### MEMENTO Focus Stacking - Code the Focus Stacker [MEMENTO Focus Stacking](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-focus-stacking) [Code the Focus Stacker](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-focus-stacking/code-the-focus-stacker) ## Featured Products ### Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Enclosure & Hardware Kit [Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Enclosure & Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5843) Once you've picked up your **MEMENTO Camera** and you're ready to take it out into the world, here is a chic and minimalist enclosure that will look great on the runways of Paris or the street photography of New York City! These front and back plates have been... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5843) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5843/guides) ### MEMENTO LED Ring Front Plate with 8 RGBW NeoPixels [MEMENTO LED Ring Front Plate with 8 RGBW NeoPixels](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5854) This product is just the LED ring add-on board for the MEMENTO camera kit pack. In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5854) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5854/guides) ### USB Type A to Type C Cable - approx 1 meter / 3 ft long [USB Type A to Type C Cable - approx 1 meter / 3 ft long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4474) As technology changes and adapts, so does Adafruit. This   **USB Type A to Type C** cable will help you with the transition to USB C, even if you're still totin' around a USB Type A hub, computer or laptop. USB C is the latest industry-standard connector for... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4474) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4474/guides) ### USB Type C microSD Card Reader/Writer [USB Type C microSD Card Reader/Writer](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5212) This is the cutest little **USB C microSD Card Reader/Writer** , but don't be fooled by its adorableness! Simply pop the card into the edge and plug it into your computer or device. No drivers are required; it shows up as a standard 'Mass Storage' device under any... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5212) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5212/guides) ### SD/MicroSD Memory Card (8 GB SDHC) [SD/MicroSD Memory Card (8 GB SDHC)](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1294) Add mega-storage in a jiffy using this 8 GB class 4 micro-SD card. It comes with a SD adapter so you can use it with any of our shields or adapters. Preformatted to FAT so it works out of the box with our projects. Tested and works great with our Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1294) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1294/guides) ### SD/MicroSD Memory Card - 16GB Class 10 - Adapter Included [SD/MicroSD Memory Card - 16GB Class 10 - Adapter Included](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2693) Add speedy mega-storage in a jiffy using this 16 GB Class 10 micro-SD card. It comes with a SD adapter so you can use it with any of our shields or adapters! Preformatted to FAT so it works out of the box with our projects. Works great with any device in the Adafruit shop that uses micro-SD... No Longer Stocked [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2693) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2693/guides) ### 512MB micro SD Memory Card [512MB micro SD Memory Card](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5252) Add storage in a jiffy using this **512MB** microSD card. Preformatted to FAT32, so it works out of the packaging with our projects. Works great with any device in the Adafruit shop that uses microSD cards. Ideal for use with Feathers, data loggers, or small Linux SBCs (not good... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5252) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5252/guides) ### 256MB Micro SD Memory Card [256MB Micro SD Memory Card](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5251) Add storage in a jiffy using this **256MB microSD card**. Preformatted to FAT32, so it works out of the packaging with our projects. Works great with any device in the Adafruit shop that uses microSD cards. Ideal for use with Feathers, data loggers, or small Linux SBCs (not good... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5251) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5251/guides) ## Related Guides - [Face Tracking Robot with MEMENTO](https://learn.adafruit.com/face-tracking-robot-with-memento.md) - [AdaBox 021](https://learn.adafruit.com/adabox021.md) - [Set up Web Workflow on the Adafruit MEMENTO](https://learn.adafruit.com/set-up-web-workflow-on-the-adafruit-memento.md) - [MEMENTO Wireless Remote with TouchOSC](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-wireless-remote.md) - [Memento Photo Capture with itsaSNAP](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-photo-capture-with-itsasnap.md) - [Facial Detection and Recognition with MEMENTO](https://learn.adafruit.com/facial-detection-and-recognition-with-memento.md) - [3D Printed Camera Case for MEMENTO](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-3d-case.md) - [MEMENTO Focus Stacking](https://learn.adafruit.com/memento-focus-stacking.md) - [Adafruit MEMENTO Camera Board](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-memento-camera-board.md) - [ePaper Camera](https://learn.adafruit.com/epaper-camera.md) - [Using the OPEN INSTALLER Button on circuitpython.org](https://learn.adafruit.com/using-open-installer-on-circuitpython-org.md) - [CLUE Light Paint Stick with CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/clue-light-paintstick.md) - [QT Py S2 Round Display Compass](https://learn.adafruit.com/qt-py-s2-round-display-compass.md) - [Adafruit OV7670 Camera Library For SAMD51 Processors](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-ov7670-camera-library-samd51.md) - [New Year Countdown Clock with Circuit Playground Express](https://learn.adafruit.com/new-year-countdown-clock-with-circuit-playground-express.md)