Thursday, June 23, 2011

One Picture - with variable focus...

New Camera Focuses on Data Capture Rather than Image

by MATT BALL on JUNE 23, 2011
You may have seen news about the new Lytro camera, which employs a new kind of sensor that focuses on capturing data about the light that hits the sensor rather than simply focusing on capturing an image. By placing an emphasis on capturing the color, intensity and direction of light rays, it becomes possible to fully manipulate the photo with computer software to adjust the hue, brightness, contrast and even focus of the photo after the point of capture. This is a revolutionary adjustment in how cameras might be employed as it does away with reliance on the skills of the operator and the automation of the camera, and places the control in the hands of the viewer.

Lytro provides some really interesting interactive photos on their website, where you can click on different points within the photo to adjust the photo focus. While the ability to manipulate digital photos through the use of software isn’t unique, the level of interactivity with the resulting image is exciting.

The focus here on the camera’s sensor speaks to a growing trend for a new level and type of sensing. It’s part of a fundamental shift toward tools that allow us to capture data about the world around us to assist our powers of observation, and unlock new truths about reality and interactions.

Here’s an example image where clicking on any area within the image changes the focus of the entire image:

No comments:

Post a Comment