DSLR cameras have evolved from their bulky forms into compact versions, that are now superseded by mirrorless versions that are more consumer-oriented. If you are someone who is a social butterfly, chances are you need high-resolution photo and video shooting equipment handy at all times. Sure, smartphones are the best bet when it comes to quick reels or IG-worthy stories, still they cannot match the details of DSLR or mirrorless shooters.
Traditionally both these versions have an optical viewfinder to shoot the subject in the frame. Now, a designer has taken a completely different approach to what a camera should be like.
This is the Eye to Eye camera that takes a completely radical approach to digital photography both in form and function. Right where you would find the viewfinder and the lens of the digital camera, this one has a flush hollow part that lets the shooter see the subject without anything in between. This creates a direct eye-to-eye between the photographer and the subject right at the moment of capture. More than a mere gimmick, the digital camera actually shoots photographs.
According to Yasuaki, the idea is to create a deeper connection between the two individuals and also let them be more aware of their visual surroundings. Since the subject knows the human eye instead of a lens looking straight him/her in the eye, the final shot has a more engaging emotion to it. It’s beyond just the digital recording or picture shooting moment, staying as a cherished memory. This interesting gadget is a part of his art series, and a limited edition artwork that we are sure will have more interesting things to follow.
The in-person interaction of this interesting digital camera can be a bit too much for shy individuals, however, more confident people can take advantage of this unique proposition.
Were you hyped when Google announced the Add Me feature for the Pixel 9 series camera? I’ll be honest, my wave of excitement died down as fast as it hit me. Truth be told, the Add Me feature is pretty impressive – it allows you to click group photos while also including yourself IN the group. The way the Pixel does this is by scanning your surroundings and the subjects in the frame, and once you click the photo, hand the phone (in the same position) to someone else and walk into the frame. The Pixel 9 will ‘add you’ to the existing photo using AI. Sounds truly remarkable, doesn’t it? Well, given how much 3D scanning and AI computation is done in advance to make this possible, this truly is a feat of technology. There’s a problem, however… You can easily achieve nearly similar results using the Panorama setting on any phone camera.
Before we break down how to do this, it’s worth noting that the way the Pixel 9’s Add Me feature and your camera’s Panorama feature work very differently. Which means there are different things to worry about, and a few potential caveats for both methods. The takeaway, however, is that you DON’T need to be excluded from your group photos. You can simply rely on an existing feature on your phone to add yourself into images… without splurging on a fancy $799-$1099 phone, or without using a whole lot of AI.
Start the panorama process, then hand the phone to someone else while you enter the panorama from the right. The small preview window should help you compose a perfectly stitched panorama that includes you!
As far as Pixel 9’s Add Me feature goes, it’s fairly state-of-the-art and does a job most people would be pretty impressed with. You’ve got the phone quite literally scanning the room, separating the subjects from the background, and then adding an extra subject in. This way, you can truly be a part of a photo even if you’re the one clicking it. Just start the clicking process, hand the camera to someone else, and go stand in the frame you composed. You can stand near people, behind them, pretend to touch their shoulder, and the AI does the rest of the work, crunching multiple data points together to seamlessly integrate you into the frame. It’s great, but it has a few cons – aside from the general stitching issues, you need to ensure the phone’s position doesn’t change too much while clicking the image. You also need a Pixel 9 (or higher) to perform this feature, which is the biggest disadvantage of them all. There is, however, the simple solution of just clicking using the panorama mode. The panorama method is ridiculously simple and works on any smartphone (Android or iOS) without any updates. Here’s how you do it.
The final result looks just as good as the ones from Pixel’s Add Me feature… except without using any AI!
Start the panorama process, but deliberately leave the part out where you plan on inserting yourself. Then, hand the phone to someone else and have them continue the panorama, but now with you in it. Hit the shutter button after the panorama’s composed and voila! You’re effectively IN the photo that you started taking! No AI, no fancy camera features, just a genius solution to a simple problem. The Panorama method works 9 times out of 10, making it a solid alternative to Pixel’s Add Me feature. However, it has a few limitations too. Again, aside from the potential stitching issues, the photos you take ALWAYS have to be landscape (because that’s how panoramas are recorded). People in the frame cannot move too much, which could affect the stitching – this means you can’t use this feature in a crowd; your background almost always has to be static. The Panorama Method also works only from left to right, which means the photographer can only be to the right of people. Not the left, and not even behind them. Personally, these limitations feel pretty small when compared to the idea of spending $799 for a new phone. I also give it a year before someone develops a camera app or filter (I’m looking at you, Snapchat) that does this exact same thing as Pixel’s ‘Add Me’. Until then, just go ahead and use the Panorama Method. I promise nobody will know the difference.
The way we capture videos and view them has constantly been changing and along with that, mobile devices have also been evolving. With the introduction of spatial videos, we see brands like Apple trying to become the pioneer in this new form. Basically, this is a video that lets you view photos and videos as if you were there instead of looking at them with just a single fixed view. It’s a more immersive form of 3D since you’re able to turn your head and see different perspectives.
Designer: Suosi Design
As more people get into spatial videos, we’ll see all kinds of tools that will be able to capture and view videos like these. One concept tool is called VISOO, a spatial video camera that you can to take videos that can later be viewed using devices like Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro. It is not a bulky camera at all as probably one of the things that will be taken into consideration when developing tools for this kind of video is that it’s easy to carry around.
Based on the product renders, VISOO is a pretty light device that you can either carry around or attach to the accompanying glasses. For the handheld option, the cameras will be stored onto the battery case as you shoot your photos and videos. It seems there’s also a tripod where you can attach the case to for times when you need to have it placed on something a little more stable. For the glasses option, the cameras are attached to the hinges so you can move around easily while capturing moments.
Since this is still in the conceptual stage, there’s no information about the quality of photos and videos that it will capture. And with spatial videos still in early days, there’s still a lot to be discovered and explored for brands that are developing tools that can be used to enjoy capturing and viewing them.
LEGO Ideas is the best thing that happened for the community of enthusiastic LEGO builders who can’t curtail their imagination when it comes to creating jaw-dropping builds. Now, yet another LEGO set brings back the nostalgia of photography just in time for the holiday season. Thanks to YouTuber Marc (Minibrick Productions YouTube channel) who shares his interesting ideas on Google’s invincible video-sharing platform.
Remember the Polaroid SX-70 fold-flat instant camera that rocked the early 1970s? Now this iconic shooter has got the LEGO treatment in the form of a 516-brick set. The creation is a result of Minibrick Productions’ submission of the idea that earlier debuted as a concept. It’s partially functional, so you can’t click real-time photographs with this camera. The LEGO Polaroid OneStep SX-70 is for yours to grab as it can be pre-ordered right away at a price tag of $80 with release slated for January 1, 2024. Certainly, that’s way cheaper than getting the original one that’s a prized collector’s item now.
It’s a disappointment that this piece of retro-futurism cannot click actual photographs, still to keep the enthusiasts in the feels, there’s a Polaroid Time-Zero Land Film pack with three storable slides. Just slide one of these slides into the camera’s body and press the shutter button to eject the illustrated photograph. One of these photographic slides is that of Edwin H. Land, who invented the Polaroid camera.
To keep things authentic, the LEGO camera has the signature Color Spectrum of the Polaroid and the exposure compensation dial to a new 8×10 tile. As I said, it’s partially functional, so there working viewfinder and shutter button. To induce a bit of quirkiness, there’s the “photography-led” marketing that comes with the “NOT SHOT ON LEGO Polaroid Camera” sticker on the photos.
Piecing together this LEGO Polaroid camera is going to be a fun activity over the weekend and it’s going to induce the interest of onlookers who might mistake it for the real thing at first glance.
Smartphones are wonderful tools that enable a great deal of functionality, from productivity to gaming to creativity. Their cameras, in particular, are powerful enough to threaten even point-and-click and entry-level cameras, but there are still some things that aren’t possible to achieve because of limitations in size and price. DSLRs, for example, have a wider variety of applications because they can swap out lenses depending on the need. That’s impossible with smartphone cameras, but a compromise has been developed that lets you augment or change the way those cameras work by attaching a separate lens, like this new accessory from Moment that enables a powerful macro shot that’s not normally available on the iPhone.
Some Android phones advertise having a macro camera, but those really don’t do justice to what macro lenses are truly capable of. Not only are the magnification levels low, the imaging sensors are also so substandard that it might be better to have no macro camera at all. The only way you’ll be able to pull off a pleasant or dramatic close-up shot is to pair an appropriate lens with a decent sensor.
That’s exactly what the new Moment macro lens brings to the table by attaching a lens with a 75mm focal length equivalent to the powerful wide or ultrawide camera of a smartphone like the iPhone 15 Pro. This kind of lens allows the mobile photographer to capture crisp foreground details with pleasant blurring in the background, even from a distance of four inches from the subject. With a 10x magnification, you can achieve an intense shallow depth of field while still including more of the background in the shot.
Normally, you wouldn’t be able to attach a different lens on a smartphone, but Moment’s T-Series lenses use an innovative yet easy-to-use system to make that possible. In a nutshell, you put a special protective case on the iPhone and then attach compatible lenses on the specially designed mounts to expand the camera’s capabilities using lenses that would have never fit inside the cramped space of a smartphone. This ingenious design means that this new Moment macro lens can also be used on other phones, including the Pixel 8 or Samsung phones, provided you use the matching case or special mount made for the T-series lenses.
With the Moment 75mm macro lens, you can take breath-taking close-up shots of natural objects or even moving subjects, allowing you to create better memories or even win some awards. The $119.99 price tag is a bit tough to swallow, but professionals will probably be able to justify such an expense if they can get more stunning images in every shot. Of course, there’s also the hidden cost of requiring that case to always be on, at least while you’re using the lens, and the lens jutting out from the phone’s back awkwardly, but these are the things that your social media followers will probably never see anyway.
The lines that separate the physical world and the digital realm continue to blur every day. Augmented reality is putting digital artifacts like windows and buttons, while platforms like the metaverse are bringing bits of the real, physical world into a virtual space in a seamless way. None of these happen by magic, of course, and someone still has to do the work of creating these striking digital objects. Making them from scratch using 3D modelers is definitely possible but also a lot of work, especially if you’re trying to aim for realism or when you need to 3D print a replacement part for a machine or a car. 3D scanners are the tools of the trade for these tasks, and there are 10 of the best products that will get you on your way to making believable, accurate, and precise 3D models of physical objects for all your creative endeavors.
1. Revopoint MINI 3D Scanner Dual-Axis Turntable Combo
If you find yourself always 3D modeling small objects like jewelry, miniature models, or ancient artifacts, then the Revopoint MINI 3D scanner has got your back. Providing single-frame precision of up to 0.02mm and a resolution of up to 0.05mm, this handheld scanner is perfect for working with small objects where accuracy and detail are critical. With an industrial-grade blue light, it can capture detailed scans of objects as small as 10 x 10 x 10 mm in size, making short work of the tiniest targets.
Click Here to Buy Now: $721$974 (Total of $253 off with coupon code “YANKO10”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!
Why is it Noteworthy?
The Revopoint MINI blue light 3D scanner makes it trivial to capture small objects and is the perfect tool for jewelry design, miniature models, reverse engineering parts, scientific research, and any other task where high-precision models are needed.
What we like
Designed for accurate, precise, and detailed scans of small objects down to 10 x 10 x 10 mm in size
Portable design makes it easy to set up shop anywhere
Combo includes dual-axis turntable and markers
What we dislike
A bit pricey (but the bundle includes many accessories)
2. Revopoint INSPIRE 3D Scanner
Being able to turn real-world objects into 3D models is perhaps every creator’s dream, and with the cost-effective Revopoint INSPIRE, those dreams can now come true without breaking your wallet. Despite its accessible price tag, the lightweight 3D scanner offers nearly the same features are larger and more expensive hardware, such as single-frame precision up to 0.1mm and high-speed scans up to 18fps. It can even connect with Android and iOS for truly portable workflows.
Click Here to Buy Now: $356$458 (Total of $102 off with coupon code “YANKO10”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!
Why is it Noteworthy?
The Revopoint INSPIRE 3D scanner bundles powerful features into a user-friendly and cost-effective package that will appeal to both hobbyists and pros alike.
What we like
Affordable price tag makes 3D scanning accessible to anyone
Portable and lightweight design allows creators to take their tools anywhere
Basic package includes a mini turntable
What we dislike
Not much to say
3. Revopoint RANGE 3D Scanner Premium Package
Not everything you want to scan will be in a small or even medium size, but that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank for an expensive and complicated studio rig. With the Revopoint RANGE 3D scanner, creating digital models of large objects is no sweat at all. With an infrared light projector that supports a distance of up to 800mm and a single-frame precision of up to 0.1mm, you can easily scan furniture, bodies, and even cars and still be able to hold the scanner in your hand.
Click Here to Buy Now: $889$1199 (Total of $310 off with coupon code “YANKO10”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!
Why is it Noteworthy?
The Revopoint RANGE 3D Scanner makes it easy to create 3D models from large objects without having to sacrifice portability and ease of use.
What we like
Portable handheld design makes it easy to work when and where creativity strikes
Can scan objects as large as 360mm x 650mm @ 600mm from a distance of up to 800mm with accuracy, precision, and high detail
Premium package includes a large turntable, a power bank, and a remote
What we dislike
A bit pricey (but the bundle includes many accessories)
4. Revopoint POP 3 Handheld 3D Scanner Advanced Edition
Say goodbye to bulky setups and get ready to start working anywhere. With the Revopoint POP 3 handheld 3D scanner, getting accurate and precise digital versions of real-world objects won’t be a burdensome chore. It boasts an Auxiliary IR that enhances tracking performance in Maker Mode, while White LEDs make the digital model colors more vibrant. Plus, touch-sensitive buttons on the camera itself remove the need for external devices, making the whole workflow more seamless and convenient.
Click Here to Buy Now: $605$769 (Total of $164 off with coupon code “YANKO10”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!
Why is it Noteworthy?
The Revopoint POP 3 Handheld 3D Scanner’s portable design and powerful yet easy-to-use features make 3D scanning accessible to everyone.
What we like
Portable design makes it easy to start working anytime, anywhere
Single-frame precision of up to 0.05mm at up to 18fps for fast and correct 3D models
Advanced Edition includes everything you need such as a dual-axis turntable and a power bank
What we dislike
A bit pricey (but the bundle includes many accessories)
5. Revopoint Handheld Stabilizer for 3D Scanners
Handheld 3D scanners truly revolutionize the industry, allowing almost anyone to do creative work when inspiration strikes. Not everyone, however, has steady hands, which is where a stabilizer comes in. Designed for Revopoint’s portable 3D scanners, this Handheld Stabilizer lets you work without having to worry about shaky hands, getting accurate, detailed, and clear scans each and every time.
Compatible with all Revopoint 3D scanners, this Handheld Stabilizer lets you spend more time scanning and less time worrying about shaky hands.
What we like
Built-in rechargeable 4000mAh battery delivers a 6-hour operating time
Compatible with all Revopoint 3D scanners
What we dislike
Stabilizes on 2 axes only
6. Revopoint Dual-Axis Turntable
Just because you have a handheld 3D scanner doesn’t mean you always have to hold it in your hand to use it. Sometimes, going around the object isn’t the best way to get the best scans, which is actually true even for very small objects. On the flip side, turning the object manually yourself is also a lot of work with a lot of room for error. With the Revopoint Dual-Axis Turntable, you can prop up both the object as well as the 3D scanner for a steadier and more consistent rotation that will let you get all the details you need without having to rely on your shaky hands.
The Revopoint Dual-Axis Turntable can rotate at a 30-degree tilt to make sure you can capture all the angles you need for an accurate 3D scan.
What we like
Supports 360-degree rotation, clockwise or counterclockwise, and up to 30 degrees tilt
Has markers for accurate scanning
What we dislike
Can only be controlled via Bluetooth using Revo Scan or Revo Assistant (app for iOS or Android)
7. Revopoint Power Bank Mobile Kit
It’s easy to use handheld 3D scanners anywhere, given their portable and lightweight designs, but they’re still electronic devices that do need power to be used. The Revopoint Power Bank provides the juice you need to do your work, wherever you are. You can even easily swap out batteries so you can get up and running again before your creative ideas fly away.
The Revopoint Mobile Kit provides the power you need to minimize your downtime and keep on scanning.
What we like
Rechargeable 4,000mAh battery offers enough power for hours of work
Designed to work with all Revopoint 3D scanners
What we dislike
Rather plain design
8. Revopoint Large Turntable
With a handheld 3D scanner, you might think that you will always need to go around the target to scan it. That’s not always easy, however, and sometimes even error-prone. With the Revopoint Large Turntable, you create more efficient workflows by having the object turn around instead. And with a maximum load of 200kg, you can put almost anything that can fit on the turntable, including a human person!
The Revopoint Large Turntable enables more efficient and time-effective workflows by having the object steadily turn around rather than having you move around it.
What we like
Can support loads of up to 200kg
What we dislike
A bit heavy at 7kg
9. Revopoint Markers for 3D Scanning
While handheld 3D scanners have definitely made it so much easier to scan almost any object, not all objects in the physical world are actually that easy to scan. Objects with completely smooth and featureless surfaces, such as cups or cars, can be more difficult to scan. The Revopoint Markers for 3D scanning easily solves this problem by adding visual points for the scanner to track more easily. With a specially designed adhesive foil, applying and removing these markers are as easy as pie and won’t cause damage to the object.
The Revopoint Markers for 3D scanning instantly turn stubborn, featureless surfaces into scanner-friendly textures for more accurate models.
What we like
Easy to apply and remove without damaging the object
Single pack includes 500 markers
What we dislike
Not reusable
10. Scanning Spray
Scanning physical objects might sound easy, but not all real-world things lend themselves well to this process. Objects with reflective or transparent surfaces are especially tricky because of how they can interfere with the scanner’s optics. The Scanning Spray deftly transforms the glossiest surface into a textured easy-to-scan surface. Best of all, it doesn’t leave permanent marks and doesn’t do any damage to the object.
