I remember reading about the Light l16 when it released in 2017. It was advertised as the first camera for computational photography. Its array of 16 cameras at three different focal lengths would combine the images into higher resolution ones and also create depth channels to simulate depth of field. It came and went with mixed to unfavorable reviews and eventually Light pivoted to automotive imaging before being bought by John Deere.
These cameras launched at ~$2000 and now can be picked up for ~$130. My curiosity got the best of me and I had to pick one up.
This camera is no longer being supported and the software used to processes the images from the computer is buggy and unstable. Though, with patience, I think I can make some good images from this camera. I’ll need to update its firmware tomorrow and hopefully that will go smoothly (I hear there is a risk of bricking your camera)
There is a growing community online of other owners looking into reverse engineering and hacking the camera. I hope they’re able to make some progress and keep this weird camera alive a little longer.
I also remember hearing about this camera at the same year and calling it "trypophobia camera", though I only thought it was a crowdfunding project so I was a little surprised to see an actual product. The reviews, prices, and software support reminds me of Lytro Illum, and the 2010s period where a lot of electronics tried to be as 'smartphoneish' as possible and people raving about such 'smartphoneish' factor. With that said, it would be awesome to see hacks and custom firmwares for this camera, I'm wishing to see another magic lantern (for Canon EF) moment in other camera series and models.
