I'm working to build a nationwide non-profit program called Kamra Karma. The intention is to get pre-2008 DSLR cameras out of the basements of pro and amateur photographers and into the hands of after-school, at-risk youth and disabled-veteran programs that can continue to put these wondrous little machines to their highest use and purpose.

Breakthroughs in camera technology such as putting lenses over each individual pixel have transformed the industry over the last two years. This has caused even satisfied camera owners to purchase, or consider purchasing, a current-generation digital SLR.

There are likely one million fully operational DSLRs built between 2002 and 2007 that have been downgraded below second- or third-camera status. Most of these cameras are trading on ebay and photography sites at between 3 and 10 cents on the dollar. Our program makes an attractive option for those who can't trade a cherished, $1100 artifact for merely the price of a tank of gas. As way of thanks, we intend to have classes hand-paint a chosen first name on each camera, showing donors that their old friends are much appreciated and still on the job.

Similar to Cash for Clunkers, I'm requesting older-generation rebate programs through the corporations that stand to benefit most: Nikon, Canon, Best Buy and B&H Photo. I'm also requesting elbow grease from non-profit industry, arts and educational organizations like the American Society of Media Photographers and the Society for Photographic Education. One well-respected arts organization has already volunteered to help with the logistical challenges of receiving and distributing the DSLRs.

www.KamraKarma.org currently directs back to this site. Once there's sufficient activity to warrant a standalone, we'll mytosis it off to be its own entity.

Best,

Ben