Valoi Copy Stand v2 Repro Stand
2026 © Thomas Gade
Nikon J5 with Nikkor 1 10–30 mm zoom lens on the Valoi Essential Copy Stand v2.
Purpose and Application
The Valoi Essential Copy Stand v2 is a compact repro stand designed for digitizing slides, negatives, and documents. Terms such as copy stand, repro stand, or repro column are used interchangeably in photography. Its primary purpose is to position a camera vertically above a subject.
Construction and Materials
The column is made from an industrial 3030 aluminum extrusion. This type of profile is also used in competing products such as the Negative Supply Basic Riser (MK1/MK2, 299 US$) and the Bluegrass CopyStand v3.0 (175 US$). The current MK3 model from Negative Supply uses a different but functionally similar profile.
The base differs noticeably from traditional designs: instead of a flat wooden board, Valoi uses a U-shaped metal frame. It can be placed directly on a light table or combined with a larger LED panel. This makes the system particularly suitable for digitizing slides and negatives in sleeves and for creating digital contact sheets.
Camera Arm and Stability
The height-adjustable camera arm appears to be a 3D-printed plastic component. It works as intended, though a stiffer version would be desirable. The connection between the column and the base is well engineered. Only the original screw with its large grip protrudes noticeably forward and can be replaced with a shorter knurled screw.
Technical Data
Manufacturer: Kameratori Oy, Finland
Model: Valoi Essential Copy Stand v2
Price: 145 €
Height: 48 cm / 70 cm with extension
Weight: 2.5 kg / 2.8 kg with extension
Load capacity: Optimal up to 750 g, maximum 1.3 kg (without column extension)
The stand is shipped in individual parts to reduce packaging size and can be assembled quickly.
Used with a smartphone, the Valoi copy stand allows convenient digitization of documents. The setup is lightweight, compact, and ideal for mobile use in archives or libraries.
The copy stand was originally developed for the Valoi 360 system but works equally well with other holders or for general repro and macro work. The Pentax K-70 with the Pentax FA 2.8/50 mm macro lens weighs about 1.1 kg. You should not expect the camera arm to support a higher weight.
Side view without the column extension. Despite its small diameter, the column is surprisingly stable. The sliding camera arm looks like a 3D-printed part. A shorter and stiffer version would make it possible to mount an Arca-Swiss compatible quick-release clamp. The metal base is well designed and neatly manufactured.
The photo also shows that the grip of the column-locking screw protrudes forward and may get in the way.
With the extension attached, the column appears quite tall. The upper section is suitable only for lightweight cameras. When photographing larger subjects, the quick-release screw may enter the frame. It can easily be replaced with a shorter screw.
Optional Wooden Baseboard
The U-shaped metal base has advantages, but a traditional flat baseboard can be more practical for certain tasks, such as mounting accessories for digitizing slides or negatives.
A baseboard is easy to make yourself. A piece of multiplex plywood, four rubber feet, some sandpaper, and varnish are sufficient. The example shown here measures 26 × 32 cm and is 2 cm thick. Even a repurposed kitchen cutting board can work.
Both versions have their pros and cons. Since a baseboard is simple to build, it makes sense to have both options available.
With the extension-piece as the column and a wooden baseboard, a Valoi easy35 can be held comfortably. This leaves both hands free to operate the camera and to move the film or change slides. The easy35 needs to be supported from below so that the weight of the entire setup does not rest solely on the copy stand’s camera arm.
Conclusion
Among the simple repro stands based on a 3030 aluminum column, the Valoi Essential Copy Stand v2 offers excellent value for money. It is more affordable than the models from Negative Supply and features a stable metal base.The U-shaped base may seem unusual at first but offers practical advantages. A traditional baseboard can be added inexpensively. The camera arm could be stiffer, but for lightweight cameras and users who do not require a high-precision height adjustment, the Valoi Essential Copy Stand v2 is a solid and recommendable choice.