MEMENTO is an ESP32-S3-based, CircuitPython or Arduino programmable DIY camera module

Adafruit’s new MEMENTO – Bare Board Camera module is powered by the ESP32-S3 and can be programmed with CircuitPython or Arduino. The module includes a camera with an OV5640 sensor which features auto-focus capabilities and the board includes a 1.54″ 240×240 Color TFT to display the images.

Previously we have covered many ESP32-based camera modules like the TinyML-CAM, the Arduino Nicla Vision, TTGO T-Camera, and many other camera modules that feature the OV5640 sensor you can check those out if interested.

Features and Specifications of the MEMENTO ESP32 Camera Module:

Processing and Connectivity
- ESP32-S3 Module
  - Dual-core 240MHz Tensilica processor
  - 8 MB Flash, 2 MB PSRAM
  - WiFi and BTLE capabilities
Camera and Display
- OV5640 Camera Module
  - 5MP sensor
  - 72-degree view
  - Autofocus
  - JPEG encoder
- 1.54″ Color TFT Display with 240×240 resolution
Storage – MicroSD card slot (SPI)
Ports and Expansion
- Two Digital/Analog Stemma Ports – JST PH-3 connectors for A0, A1, power, and ground
- I2C Stemma QT Port for I2C sensors (3.3V power and logic)
Sensors and Input
- LIS3DH 3-axis accelerometer to detect orientation, shaking, or movement
- 6x user Buttons connected via GPIO expander
- Analog microphone to detect loud sounds
- Shutter button integrated into GPIO 0
- Reset Button for board resetting or bootloader access
Power Management
- LiPoly Battery charging support, compatible with 3.7/4.2V batteries
- On/Off Switch to manage power for battery use
Programming and Debugging
- USB Type C port for programming, REPL access, and charging
- Breakout Pads for Hardware UART for advanced debugging
Physical Specifications
- Dimensions – 63.6mm x 63.3mm x 13.0mm
- 4x M3 Standoffs for mounting or enclosure
- Weight – 29.0 grams

The camera used in the module is an OV5640 – 5MP camera sensor with a JPEG encoder built-in. It has a 72-degree field of view and an auto-focus motor. The board uses Adafruit’s PyCamera code, and after taking a photo, it saves it directly to an SD card. Therefore, inserting an SD card into the device is essential for operation.

The device offers various camera modes, including black and white, color, and solarized modes (both normal and inverted). It features a JPEG mode and a GIF mode for creating GIFs. Additionally, there’s a stop-motion mode, where you can see the previous image as a ghost-like overlay on the screen.

When it comes to programming, this board supports Arduino and CircuitPython with code examples provided on GitHub. However, Adafruit recommends CircuitPython for its faster development time and easier use, especially with Adafruit’s supporting library.

Priced at $34.95, the MEMENTO Camera Board is now available for purchase on Adafruit’s website.

Debashis Das

Debashis Das is a technical content writer and embedded engineer with over five years of experience in the industry. With expertise in Embedded C, PCB Design, and SEO optimization, he effectively blends difficult technical topics with clear communication