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.
It is an occasionally remarkable camera. Under the right conditions it produces some really high quality images. I’m gonna continue shooting with it and I’ll post again once all of my feelings about it firm up.
