Filmomat & Bobach: Camera Stand PRO 340 / 540

2026 © Thomas Gade



The Camera Stand PRO, developed by the Munich-based team Filmomat GmbH and Jules Bobach, is a high quality repro stand designed for demanding users working with a 135 or 120 Autocarrier. The system is currently considered one of the most efficient tools for holding, automatically transporting, and illuminating 35 mm and medium format film, including cable triggered camera release. If the camera setup can keep up with the speed, up to three scans per second are possible (c’t Fotografie 05/2025, p. 124). A suitable repro stand was therefore an essential addition to the system and was recently introduced. Of course, it can also be used for other purposes.

Construction

The device consists primarily of precisely machined metal components and only a few plastic parts. This choice of materials results in an extremely stable construction. The solid metal baseplate and the robust column easily support heavy full-frame or medium-format cameras.

A particular highlight is the playfree linear guide with a massive fine pitch spindle for height adjustment. A large handwheel with a finger recess allows the camera height to be adjusted effortlessly and with exceptional precision. In fact, a single finger is sufficient. The mechanism operates smoothly and with virtually no detectable play, enabling controlled adjustments even in the submillimeter range.



Mounted on the camera arm is a leveling base followed by a rotating quick-release clamp for Arca-Swiss rails. This allows the camera sensor to be aligned perfectly parallel to the subject. Although the leveling head is originally designed for horizontal use, it also holds typical photographic equipment reliably in a vertical orientation. For directly mounted cameras, this setup is ideal and enables extremely precise alignment.

Users of bellows systems, however, often prefer a solid 3/8" tripod screw instead of the quick release clamp, as the entire bellows setup including the lens can remain permanently attached to the stand, eliminating the need for frequent fine adjustments. The Camera Stand PRO is available in two lengths. The 340 mm version measures 44 cm from the tabletop to the top of the handwheel. The figures 340 mm and 540 mm refer to the maximum distance between the tripod screw and the baseplate.

Overall, this repro stand is based on a curated selection of industrial components, combined with two lasercut metal side panels and the baseplate. The leveling head and the round Arca-Swiss quick release base are familiar elements from professional photographic equipment.

340 or 540 mm?

With the shorter version (340 mm) and a 50 mm macro lens on an APS- vertical position, the camera can be raised by several additional centimeters using a longer Arca-Swiss rail, increasing the usable range. On a fullframe camera with a 50 mm macro lens, the reproducible area is around 11 × 17 cm.

If this range is sufficient, the shorter column is adequate. For larger subjects, the longer version is recommended.

Technical Data

Relatively expensive

1299 € or 1499 € for a Camera Stand PRO is certainly not inexpensive. For professional or institutional users who are already investing in the Autocarrier system, this price level may still be acceptable. Many hobby photographers, however, will likely look for a more affordable alternative on the used market.



On the underside are industrial 2020 and 2060 aluminum profiles. Dimensions of the baseplate: 28.3 cm width / 22 cm depth to the cutout for the column. Total length: 29.5 cm. The required footprint is pleasantly small.



The baseplate and the side panels of the column are made from 3 mm thick, powder-coated metal plates. They reinforce the aluminum profiles, which are bolted together at a 90-degree angle, resulting in an extremely torsion resistant structure.

Conclusion

Compact, robust, and technically sophisticated. These qualities summarize the Camera Stand PRO well. Lukas Fritz and Jules Bobach have once again introduced a thoughtfully engineered photographic device. Since it consists largely of industrial components available in various sizes, supplemented by only a few custom metal parts, the concept can be expanded flexibly. The comparatively high price, however, may limit its appeal.


 

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