Lytro Light field Photography

Since its release in 2012 there was much hype and conjecture that light field cameras would be the future of photography but somehow this audacious and progressive technology has failed to resonate with the photo going public and professional image makers.

We’ll take a look at the reasons behind this later on in the review.

But before we go into the technical specifications lets spend some time assessing the bold new design of the product.

It’s unconventional and some might say odd looking, you’d be forgiven for mistaking this as a torch or a pencil sharpener.
But once you see it in the flesh you can start to appreciate the minimalist design, comfort, simplicity and overall quality of the device.

When I first saw it online I thought that it may have been constructed from plastic perhaps because of the multiple colour choices available ranging from moxie pink, electric blue, red and grey.

But once you actually hold one in your hands you’ll appreciate not only the elegant design but also the attention to detail and overall build quality. Composed of anodised aluminium.

Most surprising was how weighty and substantial it feels. The rubbery grip is tactile and incorporates the controls in a seamless and unified way. the shutter button is at the top and just behind it is a scrollable zoom which you trigger by swiping your finger along the surface. At the base of the unit there is an on off switch and a micro usb port for plugging the camera into your computer or power outlet.

The lens barrel constitutes a large part of the camera taking up 3/4 of its length as it incorporates an 8 times optical zoom. Even the magnetised lens cover forms an integral part of the design as it slips on and off with ease.

There is a square screen at the rear of the camera which has a touch interface allowing you to view the images as you take them and perhaps most importantly play around with the selective focus capability of the camera and access various control panel settings.

So as far as the cosmetics and usability of the camera go I was pleasantly surprised and found it fun and enjoyable to use.

Leave a Reply