Raspberry Pi Camera Modules

Official Camera Module Version 1: Standard

Just over a year after Raspberry Pi's initial launch, founder Eben Upton announced the release of the original camera module board. The original board packs a 5-megapixel OmniVision OV5647 sensor with a resolution of 2592x1944 pixels. It was designed for daytime use only.

In terms of video, it supports 1080p as well as slow-motion modes, albeit at a lower resolution. The original camera module is a good option for many types of projects if you can find one for sale, so long as you're not too picky about resolution, night photography, and being 3 megapixels behind the newer version.

Official Camera Module Version 1: NoIR Infrared

In October 2013, the Raspberry Pi Foundation released a new infrared (IR) version of the camera module board called the NoIR module. The stylish black NoIR module was designed for night photography and other IR experiments such as viewing plant photosynthesis. You'll get a very purple image during the ​day, so IR cameras are best reserved for nighttime projects.

Like the original module, these may be hard to find now that they've been superseded by newer versions. However, if you can find an inexpensive one and aren't concerned with its lower resolution, an original NoIR module could be an affordable option for night photography.

Official Camera Module Version 2: Standard Version

Version 2 of the Raspberry Pi camera module was released in April 2016, this time boasting 8 megapixels. The previously used OmniVision OV5647 sensors were no longer being produced, so the Raspberry Pi Foundation switched to hardware based on Sony's IMX219 model. Everything else, including size, hole layout, and code commands, stayed the same.

As version 1 boards become harder and harder to find, version 2 camera modules will soon be the only official daytime camera option. The megapixel boost should be enough to tempt most buyers away from aftermarket options.

Official Camera Module Version 2: NoIR Version

The second version of the NoIR camera module was released on the same day as the new standard version. Aside from the additional megapixels, the camera module was unchanged. As it gets more difficult to source the original boards, this will be the go-to official night camera module.

Waveshare Night Vision Camera Module With IR LEDs

This model from Waveshare combines an adjustable-focus lens with attachable IR LEDs to create a solid night-vision option. The IR board also comes with a photoresistor, which will detect ambient light and adjust the IR intensity accordingly, as well as a built-in resistor for further adjusting.

If you're planning on doing some night photography and don't want the hassle of arranging or building your own IR lighting, this is a good solution. The quality of aftermarket cameras and sensors can be inconsistent, however, so consider your requirements before making a purchase.