Leica has long been synonymous with precision craftsmanship and a refined photographic experience. With the Lux Grip, the brand extends its expertise to smartphone photography, bringing DSLR-style ergonomics to the iPhone. Designed for enthusiasts who demand more than the standard touchscreen interface, this MagSafe-compatible grip transforms an iPhone into a more intuitive and tactile shooting tool. With its premium build, mechanical controls, and seamless software integration, the Lux Grip introduces a new level of control for mobile photographers.

Designer: Leica

Design and Build Quality

Leica’s Lux Grip embraces the brand’s signature minimalist aesthetic, crafted from high-grade aluminum with a matte black finish that exudes professionalism. Unlike many plastic alternatives, the metal construction adds a reassuring heft without making the iPhone cumbersome to hold. The cylindrical grip on the left side enhances ergonomics, providing a natural resting position for the fingers, while the MagSafe attachment ensures a secure fit across iPhone models from the iPhone 12 onward.

A key design feature is its two-stage shutter button, reminiscent of traditional cameras. This mechanical button allows for half-press focusing and full-press image capture, bringing a level of tactile precision rarely seen in mobile photography. A dedicated dial on the grip enables quick adjustments to exposure settings, zoom, and other camera functions, mimicking the manual control dials found on Leica’s flagship cameras. The inclusion of customizable function buttons further enhances usability, allowing photographers to map key controls to suit their shooting style.

Advantages of the Leica Lux Grip

The Lux Grip stands out by offering features typically reserved for high-end cameras. Unlike touchscreen-based smartphone controls, this grip provides:

• A True Photography Feel: The two-stage shutter button offers mechanical feedback that mimics a traditional camera.
• Improved Ergonomics: The cylindrical grip ensures a stable hold, reducing strain during prolonged shooting sessions.
• Customizable Controls: Two assignable function buttons allow photographers to personalize their workflow.
• Enhanced Stability: A firmer grip reduces unintentional shakes, resulting in sharper images.
• MagSafe Convenience: The attachment is secure but allows for quick detachment when needed.

These advantages make the Lux Grip a compelling choice for content creators, street photographers, and professionals who rely on mobile photography for rapid image capture.

Hardware and Software Integration

Leica’s implementation of a two-stage shutter button brings professional-grade control to mobile photography. The button operates similarly to those found in high-end DSLR and mirrorless cameras, allowing users to engage autofocus and exposure metering with a half-press. This ensures the subject is sharp and well-exposed before taking the shot.

A full press then captures the image with immediate response, eliminating the lag typically associated with touchscreen-based controls. This precise physical interface provides a more stable and reliable shooting experience, reducing camera shake and allowing for smoother action photography.

This advanced shutter system seamlessly integrates into the Lux Grip’s overall hardware and software design. By allowing photographers to lock focus before recomposing their shots, it enhances precision, particularly in portrait and street photography. Additionally, it offers better timing control for capturing fast-moving subjects, ensuring that users don’t miss critical moments. Since it eliminates reliance on touchscreen input, accidental misfocuses are significantly reduced, allowing for greater accuracy in framing and exposure. This integration between the physical shutter button and Leica’s Lux App ensures a fluid shooting experience that mimics traditional cameras, offering professional-level control in a mobile package.

The Lux Grip’s shutter button functions exclusively within the Leica Lux App, unlocking additional features tailored to professional shooting. The app provides quick access to shooting modes, manual exposure adjustments, and real-time focus controls. Users can fine-tune settings such as shutter speed, ISO, and white balance, making it a powerful tool for those who demand full control over their mobile photography workflow.

Bluetooth Connectivity and Battery Life

• Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Connection: Ensures real-time responsiveness without significant battery drain.
• Battery Capacity: The built-in 300mAh battery supports approximately 1,000 shots per charge.
• Charging Method: Uses USB-C for convenient recharging alongside an iPhone.

Leica Lux App: Free and Pro Subscription Options

The Leica Lux App operates on a tiered subscription model, offering both a free version with basic functionality and a premium Lux Pro subscription for advanced features.

The free version provides essential tools such as Auto and Aperture modes, a selection of standard Leica lens simulations, and basic editing capabilities. To help new users explore its full potential, Leica includes a two-week trial of Lux Pro, granting temporary access to the premium toolset.

For users seeking greater control over their photography, Leica offers the Lux Pro subscription at $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year—the latter offering an approximate 17% savings. However, customers who purchase the Leica Lux Grip ($329) receive a complimentary one-year Lux Pro subscription, strengthening the connection between hardware and software.

Premium Features and Market Position

• Lux Pro unlocks Leica’s signature features, including:
• Advanced Leica lens simulations, featuring the renowned Summilux-M and Noctilux-M characteristics.
• Professional tools such as RAW capture and processing, real-time histograms, and focus peaking.
• Custom presets and advanced color profiles for a tailored photographic experience.

This premium positioning places the Lux App above competitors such as Halide ($11.99/year) and ProCam ($7.99 one-time purchase). While some photographers appreciate Leica’s refined imaging capabilities, others question the necessity of an ongoing subscription after investing in the hardware. Nonetheless, the basic features remain accessible without a subscription, allowing users to determine if the enhanced tools justify the additional cost based on their workflow and appreciation for Leica’s distinct photographic approach.

Comparative Analysis: Leica LUX Grip vs. Lower-Priced Competitors

The iPhone photography accessory market offers several options catering to different budgets and needs. At $329, the Leica LUX Grip positions itself as a premium tool, while alternatives like the Belkin Stage PowerGrip ($149.95) and ShiftCam SnapGrip ($130) provide more budget-friendly choices.

Build Quality and Design

The Leica LUX Grip features a precision-engineered aluminum build, weighing 130 grams and incorporating a two-stage shutter button, customizable function buttons, and a control dial. In contrast, the Belkin Stage PowerGrip prioritizes utility with a plastic body, focusing more on battery power, while the ShiftCam SnapGrip offers a modular, expandable design with a more compact profile.

Power Management

• Leica LUX Grip: 300mAh battery supports approximately 1,000 shots per charge with USB-C charging (2-hour recharge time).
• Belkin Stage PowerGrip: Features a 10,000mAh battery, doubling as a power bank with 7.5W wireless charging.
• ShiftCam SnapGrip: Offers wireless charging but with a smaller battery capacity compared to the Belkin.

Software and Compatibility

• Leica LUX Grip: Requires the Leica Lux App, offering manual controls, Leica lens simulations, focus peaking, and histogram tools.
• Belkin Stage PowerGrip & ShiftCam SnapGrip: Work seamlessly with any camera app, offering more flexibility but fewer pro-level tools.

Value Proposition

• Leica LUX Grip is ideal for professional photographers seeking precise controls and premium build quality.
• Belkin Stage PowerGrip is best for users needing longer shooting sessions and on-the-go power.
• ShiftCam SnapGrip is a great budget-friendly choice for casual photographers wanting better handling without a steep price.

Key Takeaways

• Leica’s Lux Grip is the only option with mechanical camera controls, a significant advantage for serious photographers.
• Belkin’s PowerGrip offers an integrated power bank but lacks physical controls.
• ShiftCam SnapGrip is a budget alternative with a basic shutter button but lacks the Lux Grip’s refined ergonomics.
• Peak Design’s Creator Kit focuses more on mounting flexibility than advanced shooting features.

For professionals and enthusiasts seeking DSLR-like control in a mobile format, Leica’s Lux Grip remains the most refined choice despite its premium pricing.

The post Leica Lux Grip: A Premium Camera Grip for iPhone Photographers first appeared on Yanko Design.

OBSBOT, known for its advancements in smart videography, has unveiled two thoughtfully designed products to enhance user experiences across diverse applications. The OBSBOT Tiny SE, an AI-powered PTZ Full HD webcam, and the OBSBOT Meet SE, an AI-powered Full HD webcam, cater to gamers, remote workers, content creators, and professionals. Here’s an in-depth look at these two new webcams, designed with thoughtful engineering and user-focused features.

Designer: OBSBOT

OBSBOT Tiny SE

The OBSBOT Tiny SE features a sleek and functional design with a two-axis gimbal, providing smooth pan and tilt capabilities. It is designed to keep users perfectly framed during live streams, presentations, or virtual meetings. This makes it particularly useful for professionals who often need to move during their presentations or gamers who want their movements captured without any distortion.

Its advanced sensor technology includes a 1/2.8-inch Stacked CMOS sensor with a 2.9μm pixel size and an f/1.8 aperture, delivering vivid colors and sharp details even in low-light environments. The inclusion of dual native ISOs and Staggered HDR ensures consistent image quality, no matter the lighting conditions. The Tiny SE provides ultra-smooth video recording at 1080P with 100 frames per second, making it an excellent choice for dynamic use cases such as fitness instructors recording workout sessions or YouTubers creating tutorial videos.

This webcam is powered by a Deep Learning Neural Network, which supports AI-powered tracking features. It can track body parts, hands, or zones, adapting to the specific needs of the user. Additionally, gesture controls allow for hands-free operation, a feature highly appreciated by chefs, crafters, or anyone who needs to keep their hands occupied while presenting. The preset functionality simplifies adjusting camera angles and settings, saving time for busy users.

With its minimalistic yet professional appearance, the Tiny SE fits seamlessly into modern workspaces. Its sturdy build ensures durability, and its compact form makes it easy to mount on a laptop or monitor. Users will find it particularly beneficial for creating professional-quality content or participating in high-stakes virtual meetings where clear visuals and precise tracking make a difference.

OBSBOT Meet SE

The OBSBOT Meet SE is a compact and lightweight webcam designed for those who need portability without sacrificing performance. Weighing only 33.2 grams, it’s incredibly easy to carry and install, making it perfect for students, freelancers, and remote workers who often switch workstations. Its clean lines and modern aesthetic are further accentuated by the availability of three attractive color options: Aurora Green, Space Grey, and Cloud White.

The Meet SE excels in video performance, offering 1080P video resolution at 100 frames per second, which ensures smooth motion and vibrant visuals. This makes it ideal for activities such as virtual classes, casual live streams, or family video calls. Its 1/2.8-inch Stacked CMOS sensor and Staggered HDR work together to maintain image clarity and vivid colors, even when lighting conditions are less than ideal.

AI Auto Framing is a key feature of the Meet SE, adapting seamlessly to different scenarios. Whether it’s a one-on-one video call, a group meeting, or a content recording session, the Meet SE ensures the subject remains centered and in focus. Gesture controls further simplify its operation, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with advanced technology. The OBSBOT Center software enhances its functionality, offering features such as Bokeh, Auto Focus, and Beauty Mode. These features make the Meet SE a versatile choice for users who need a balance of functionality and ease of use.

With its lightweight design and straightforward usability, the Meet SE is particularly suited for educational settings, casual live streaming, and day-to-day communication needs. Its compatibility with popular platforms like Zoom, OBS, and Twitch ensures that it integrates effortlessly into existing workflows, making it a reliable tool for various user profiles.

Both the OBSBOT Tiny SE and Meet SE webcams emphasize OBSBOT’s commitment to making AI-powered imaging technology accessible. The Tiny SE offers dynamic tracking and advanced gimbal functionality, ideal for professionals and creators. Meanwhile, the Meet SE’s portability and user-friendly features cater to everyday needs, ensuring high-quality performance in a compact package.

The post OBSBOT’s New Additions: Tiny SE and Meet SE Webcams first appeared on Yanko Design.

Your phone has a pretty phenomenal camera, but unless it’s an absolute flagship device, it probably won’t record 8K video. And it for sure won’t fly around in the air taking dramatic shots of you while you pose on the top of a mountain or dirt bike on a rocky trail or dive into a lake. You’ll probably need a selfie drone for that, but before you go spending hundreds of dollars on a drone that’s fragile, expensive, and comes with a massive learning curve involving controllers and joysticks, the folks at HOVERAir might have built the perfect consumer-grade pro drone, or as they call it – a flying action camera. Designed to be foldable, small enough to fit in your pocket, and durable enough to withstand any rookie accidents The HOVERAir X1 PROMAX still packs a state-of-the-art flying system and an 8K camera capable of outshining any other drone its size. It works on voice commands (but also comes with an optional Wi-Fi 6-enabled Beacon), takes off from your palm, reaches speeds of up to 60 km/h (37.2 mph), can capture slow-motion videos at 120fps, and even works in sub-zero temperatures just in case you want to film yourself skiing or snowboarding. The best part, the X1 PRO’s $499 starting price, along with its compact size which makes it compliant with FAA guidelines so anyone can use one.

Designer: HOVERAir

Click Here to Buy Now: $499. Hurry, only 30 left! Raised over $4.6 million.

You may remember HOVERAir from years ago when they first debuted their folding selfie-drone cameras. More than 8 years later, the company’s still sticking to its wildly popular and innovative folding drone template, but has managed to outfit its device with some very impressive tech. Available in two variants – the X1 PRO and the X1 PROMAX, these flying action cameras are capable of recording at 4K and 8K respectively. Both devices weigh under the FAA-regulated 250-gram limit, hit speeds of 42 km/h (26mph) with bursts of up to 60 km/h (37.2mph), shoot slow-mo, take photos, and also capture vertical videos for social media. The X1 PROMAX just packs a slightly better camera system that has a marginally higher FoV at 107° (compared to the X1 PRO’s 104° FoV), and uses vision-based sensors for rear active collision detection. Think of the X1 PRO as the perfect hands-free drone for filming sports, landscapes, and your dance reels, while the X1 PROMAX just being a notch higher for serious professionals and content creators who also want great photography capabilities in their drone. No controllers, no learning curve, no fuss.

The X1 PRO and PROMAX’s design remains their strongest selling point. The flying action camera opens and closes like a book, with a camera and battery system in the ‘spine’, while the four propellers sit on either side, enclosed within a flexible, durable cage-like structure made from cutting-edge HEM materials to protect them from damage during transit or flight. To use the selfie drone, open it up and you’re ready to hit the skies. The X1 PRO and PROMAX operate on voice commands, but for more expert and intuitive tracking, HOVERAir designed a hardware Beacon that packs controls, tracking sensors, and a screen for viewing your flying action camera’s PoV. There’s no traditional remote, although the Beacon transforms into one using a series of modules like a Joystick for motion control and haptic feedback, or even the ability to snap on your smartphone to give you a true RC experience with a drone’s PoV preview. In short, the drone will fly on its own and play cinematographer to all your stunts, but if you want to get behind the ‘wheel’, it’s more than happy to relinquish control. However, if you’re looking to have your flying action camera perform a set of standard flight paths, the X1 PRO and PROMAX’s automated flight modes let you choose from in-built settings like Hover, Zoom Out, Bird’s Eye, and Orbit that capture dynamic cinematic moments, or Follow, Side Follow, and Dolly Track which are better suited for action shots. HOVERAir also plans to add more modes through OTA updates.

Of course, all of this ease of use wouldn’t matter much without an impressive camera. Fortunately, the HOVERAir X1 PRO delivers on that front too. Its 17mm wide-angle lens offers a generous 104° field of view, letting you capture expansive vistas and unique angles that would be impossible from the ground. The X1 PRO can shoot in 1080p at 120 frames per second, making it perfect for those stunning slow-motion shots. Want to take things even further? Enter the X1 PROMAX, which ups the ante with 8K resolution, 4K@120fps slow-motion, and a 107° FoV, giving you the tools to create breathtaking cinematic footage. The PROMAX model also introduces an extra vision-based sensor for rear active collision detection, adding an additional layer of protection when you’re flying in tight or unpredictable spaces – ideal for those moments when you’re pushing boundaries (and maybe your luck).

The PRO and PROMAX both have a two-axis gimbal with EIS (electronic image stabilization) and HL (horizon leveling), so your footage will be rock steady even when the adventure is rough.

When it comes to camera drones, stability is everything. No one wants shaky footage from a breezy afternoon at the beach or during a fast-paced tracking shot through a forest trail. The HOVERAir X1 PRO and PROMAX rise to the challenge with built-in video stabilization that they call SmoothCapture 2.0. A two-axis gimbal with EIS (electronic image stabilization) and HL (horizon leveling) kicks in while the drone’s in flight, allowing you to focus on capturing the scene rather than compensating for jitters. For more accurate honing in on your subject, you’ve got the HoverAir Beacon, a nifty add-on that clips onto your handlebar while you’re riding, allowing you to quickly see the flying action camera’s PoV while also giving it a target it can track. This companion device unlocks live previews and expanded control options, transforming your flying experience into something closer to autonomous filmmaking. The Beacon uses HoverLink Technology for ultra-precise tracking, so you can leave the steering to the X1 PRO or PROMAX and focus on getting the shot.

Once you’ve filmed your shot, Wi-Fi 6 integration ensures your aerial masterpiece doesn’t stay stuck in the device’s memory. Quick file transfers mean you can start editing almost immediately after landing. Plus, the selfie drone’s long-range video transmission of up to 1 km (with the Beacon) lets you explore and shoot from afar, capturing wide-open landscapes or large events without sacrificing video quality. It’s the kind of feature that makes you feel like the director of your own blockbuster.

Beyond the camera and flight smarts, the Hover X1 PRO is built to be a winning combination of portable and durable. The foldable design doesn’t affect the drone’s ability to fly with great dexterity, and even with those collision-prevention mechanisms in place, the X1 PRO and PROMAX can dust off mild bumps and accidents thanks to a flexible, shock-absorbing propeller cage. And then there’s the thrill of taking this thing off-road—literally. The X1 Pro’s Omni terrain capability makes it versatile enough to fly over lakes, through snowy forests, or along cliff edges with ease. It adds a whole new layer of adventure to your flights. The control system adapts right along with it, allowing you to turn the Hover Beacon into a one-handed joystick or opt for the more traditional two-handed smartphone setup. Either way, it adjusts to how you want to fly and where you’re flying.

You can either fold the device and carry it around in your pocket when not in use, but HOVERAir also makes a slick leather carrying case to haul your compact aerial camera around wherever you go. However, if you’re looking for an upgrade, HOVERAir’s even designed a PowerCase, which both houses your flying action camera and even supplements it with up to two additional battery charges. Designed specifically for use in extreme cold weather, the PowerCase works at temperatures even as low as -4°F (-20°C) to keep your device charged and ready for flight. Of course, flying your drone in sub-zero temperatures is yet another challenge, which is why HOVERAir even sells a special ‘Thermo Battery’ that you can fit into either the X1 PRO or X1 PROMAX, giving it an operating temperature range of -4°F to 113°F.

Both the HOVERAir X1 PRO and PROMAX come with built-in 64GB storage, upgradable up to 1TB thanks to an SD card slot located on the flying action camera’s body. The X1 PRO and PROMAX run in conjunction with the HOVERAir X1 app, which allows you to configure flight modes, download and share content, launch manual control, and even install firmware updates on your flying action camera. The app offers a transmission range of 500m, while the Beacon bumps it up to an entire kilometer. You can grab the X1 PRO and PROMAX either as standalone devices, or opt for cycling or skiing combos that include the leather carrying case, PowerCase, Thermo Battery, the Beacon, or the modular accessories that turn the Beacon into a joystick. The X1 PRO and PROMAX have already begun shipping as of end-September with a 12-month warranty, and the batteries get a 12-month warranty too (applicable up to 100 cycles).

Click Here to Buy Now: $499. Hurry, only 30 left! Raised over $4.6 million.

The post HOVERAir: World’s First 8K Flying Action Camera fits in your pocket and operates without a remote first appeared on Yanko Design.

A shutter button, a built-in gimbal for landscape and portrait shooting, a zoom wheel, an integrated LED ring light, a tripod setting, and even an external battery pack to boost your phone’s battery. The Snappy offers way more for photography enthusiasts than the iPhone 16 does. It attaches onto any smartphone, giving you a bona fide DSLR-like experience, complete with an ergonomic grip. When you don’t need to shoot content, the Snappy pops right off, turning your handheld camera back into a daily driver smartphone.

Designer: Buddiesman

Click Here to Buy Now: $89 $149 (40% Off) Hurry! Only 21 of 520 left. Raised over $101,000.

Just three weeks ago, Apple debuted the iPhone 16 line-up, adding one crucial new hardware feature to their phones – a Camera Control ‘button’. Designed to help intuitively capture photos without having to fiddle with on-screen controls, the capacitive button lets you perform a variety of actions from zooming, switching between presets, adjusting focal length, or even accessing other key camera features. With the Camera Control, Apple’s reinforced its idea that the smartphone is a great camera first, and then a good mobile device… the only problem is that great cameras are more than just fancy lenses and sensors. Enter the Snappy mobile grip, a device designed to transform the way we take photos on our phones. With its motorized gimbal providing single-axis stabilization, Snappy quickly becomes a trusted companion for anyone tired of blurry images or shaky videos. Unlike larger gimbals such as DJI’s Osmo, Snappy brings stabilization in a small, portable form—making it a solution that fits right into your pocket.

Designed by Buddiesman, a Hong Kong-based manufacturer of photographic gear, Snappy’s centerpiece is its motorized, spring-loaded clamp that securely grips your smartphone. This clamp adjusts easily to accommodate a range of phone sizes, so you won’t have to worry about removing your phone case to make it fit. The ergonomic grip attached to the clamp gives the device a comfortable feel, while an articulated arm allows the phone to be rotated seamlessly between landscape and portrait modes with the flick of a thumbwheel. Powered by a brushless motor, this feature also gives the Snappy stabilizing gimbal-like abilities, ensuring your phone stays level, even during handheld video shoots.

Plug your phone in and it literally feels like a professional camera-mimicking rig for your phone. Use any phone you want with the Snappy and it gives you the added benefit of being able to intuitively capture content the way you would with a more pro-facing device like a DSLR or mirrorless camera. A shutter button on the top lets you easily take photos and record videos without fumbling to touch the screen or hit a volume button to take the shot (like you would with most smartphones). The grip feels instantaneously comfortable, allowing you to point and shoot with a single hand. Worried you’ll accidentally drop your phone? The Snappy has a built-in strap that lets you secure it to your hand too, so even the largest, heaviest of phones don’t put too much strain on that wrist of yours.

If there’s something a photographer hates more than phone cameras, it’s the flashlight on phone cameras. The flashlight is way too coarse, and no self-respecting photographer uses it unless absolutely necessary. To fix that, the Snappy comes with its own multi-LED built-in ring light. Located just beside the phone’s lenses (where you’d expect the MagSafe ring to line up), users can toggle between cool and warm light settings simply by tapping the touch-sensitive zone inside the ring, adjusting brightness to get the perfect shot regardless of the lighting conditions. This feature is perfect for low-light environments where smartphone cameras traditionally struggle.

For even greater flexibility, Snappy allows users to detach the grip from the main body, turning it into a wireless remote. With a range of up to 10 meters (33 feet), you can take photos and videos from a distance, offering a new level of creativity and control in framing your shots. With the remote detached (or even with the remote unit still on), the Snappy can be used as a tripod of sorts, propping your phone up so you don’t need to hold it in your hands. Perfect for using as a phone stand while reviewing the footage you’ve shot, or propping your phone up to take a remote video/photo while you stand away from your camera, this feature gives the Snappy one remarkable ability that neither phones nor DSLR cameras have, barring actually buying a tripod of course. And just in case you’re a tripod purist, the Snappy has a tripod mount too. Want to add accessories to your smartphone camera? The Snappy also includes a cold shoe mount for attaching additional peripherals like microphones or even external lights just in case the ring light on the device isn’t enough.

The Snappy relies on a built-in battery that powers this entire experience. Although the battery’s capacity (and use time) is a bit of a mystery, the folks at Buddiesman tout that the Snappy can transform into a power bank for your smartphone when you’re running low on juice. Just connect your phone to the Snappy’s charging port via a USB-C cable and it instantly begins recharging your phone, giving you the benefit of a gimbal that also enhances your phone’s battery life along with its camera capabilities.

Currently available on Kickstarter, early adopters can secure a Snappy with a pledge of $89, while the retail price is set to be $149 once it hits the market. The $89 kit includes the Snappy itself, although you can upgrade to a bundle that also includes an add-on tripod and an external light that mounts into the Snappy’s cold shoe adapter. With its combination of user-friendly design and professional-grade features, Snappy could very well bridge the gap between smartphones and traditional cameras, bringing the best of both worlds to your pocket. They say the best camera is the one that’s in your pocket. No matter whether it’s the Google Pixel, a Samsung Galaxy, or even older variants of the iPhone, the Snappy turns your phone’s camera into a makeshift pro-grade shooter that’s perfect for turning average photos and videos into polished content.

Click Here to Buy Now: $89 $149 (40% Off) Hurry! Only 21 of 520 left. Raised over $101,000.

The post Forget the iPhone 16 Camera Control, this Gimbal Attachment gives any smartphone a DSLR experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smartphones have become very powerful and convenient tools for recording precious memories and sharing them with loved ones, but they can also be sources of stress, distractions, and dissatisfaction. The Instagram generation has many people snapping up photos or short video clips and then losing themselves in a sea of notifications and social media posts just as they try to quickly share those moments. It is quite ironic that these devices that connect us with others also disconnect us from the world around us and, more importantly, from ourselves because of those incessant distractions. A dedicated digital camera, even one with Wi-Fi, is a solution but an inconvenient one at that because of its bulk and complicated features. A better answer might be the evolution of the point-and-shoot camera, but one with a flexible design that can scale to people’s ever-changing needs and situations.

Designers: Mason Fetter, Alejandra Giron, Grant Huntsman, Cooper Phelps, Summer Glenn

Point-and-shoot digital cameras were the first to be obsoleted by the rise of smartphones, unable to keep up with the growing number of connectivity features and fun filters that these mobile devices offered. At the same time, however, it is exactly those lack of features that now gives the design its appeal, as people using Polaroid-style instant cameras have discovered. Their simplicity allowed people to simply have fun and enjoy the moment, without having to worry about instantly applying filters or even immediately uploading photos and videos.

Keepsake is a concept design that embraces that simplicity but with an added twist. Unlike those very basic cameras, it can actually expand to add features needed by users. Best of all, it can also go back to that basic functionality once those extra tasks are done. In other words, it has a modular system that keeps it agile and flexible in ways that even a smartphone might have problems keeping up with.

At the heart of the Keepsake design is the screenless digital camera itself and four basic modules which include a mic recording and flash that stick to the front of the camera, as well as a MagSafe clip and a wide charging hub that connects to the back. With this kit, shutterbugs have most of what they need to have an enjoyable disconnected experience that simply focuses on the world around them. At the same time, it keeps the doors open to even more possibilities with future add-ons.

Of course, Keepsake also connects and syncs with a mobile app so you can still share your photos when you want to. It gives users the freedom and control to put their phones away and just immerse themselves in the moment but still gives them the power to enjoy the conveniences of the Internet afterward. And with the modular design, they can take only what they need with them and hold a compact device, unlike a powerful yet bulky and heavy camera.

The post Modular camera concept keeps you focused on the magic of the moment first appeared on Yanko Design.

Even with the growing power of smartphone cameras, the discrete camera market hasn’t yet folded as many once prophesied. Professional cameras like DSLRs are still unmatched in power and flexibility, while the retro and nostalgia craze has actually carved a niche for Polaroid-style instant cameras. The most popular format for the latter is small vertical cards that fans love sharing or sticking on walls and fridge doors, but those square-shaped photos (not including the wide white borders) don’t exactly have enough room for everyone or everything you might want to capture. For that, you’ll need a wider picture format, almost like the stereotypical 4×6, which is something that Fujifilm’s latest INSTAX design is offering, allowing you to snap and share those once-in-a-lifetime moments with more friends.

Designer: Fujifilm

There’s just something about these instant cameras that tickle people’s fancies, regardless of whether they lived through the age of Polaroids or not. Rather than being seen as a weakness, the lack of digital features and the limits of printed photos actually add to the charm of the experience. It makes each moment even more ephemeral and precious, which is why you’d want to include as many people or as much of the scene as you can.

The INSTAX WIDE 400 provides that breathing room with its wide photo format, almost twice the size of regular INSTAX photos. That also makes the camera twice as large, as it needs to fit the cartridge holding the ink-free sheets of photo frames. That said, the camera is also designed for comfort despite its size and heft, and its traditional design makes it easy to grasp and hold even with a single hand.

One of the biggest strengths of the INSTAX cameras is their extreme ease of use. Simply turn them on, which involves turning the central dial to the left, and you’re good to go. But since it was specifically designed for group photos, the INSTAX WIDE 400 has a unique feature that lets you turn a lever to set a timer for up to 10 seconds, giving you enough time to position yourself or prepare wacky poses. It doesn’t get simpler than that.

Admittedly, the INSTAX WIDE 400 is aimed at a very niche audience, but one that really digs this kind of experience enough to fork out around $150 for just the camera alone. That said, Fujifilm also knows it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, which is why it has a wide range of INSTAX products ranging from smaller instant cameras to portable photo printers that try to offer the best of both analog and digital worlds.

The post INSTAX WIDE 400 instant camera leaves more space for your friends first appeared on Yanko Design.

Gudetama is one of my favorite Sanrio characters as I find that I relate a lot to it even though it’s an anthropomorphic egg yolk. I’ve watched its “Eggcelent Adventures” on Netflix and I also collect various stationary stuff featuring this lazy ennui-filled cute egg. I’m not alone in this obsession as the character has 852,000 followers on Instagram and has probably sold a lot of Sanrio merch as well.

Designer: Retrospekt for Sanrio

Another Gen Z thing that has been trending lately is a throwback to 35mm digital cameras. And no one does retro tech products better than Retrospekt. Their latest collaboration with Sanrio is the limited edition Gudetama Restrospekt FC-11 35mm Film Camera which has the egg yolk character on center stage, or rather, center camera. The camera has a silicone lens cap and the body has faux leather artwork with the different Gudetama versions.

It is a pretty simple point-and-shoot camera with a 1m fixed-focus lens and built-in optional flash. All you have to do is look through the viewfinder, line up your shot, press the shutter button, and then get your 35mm film developed in your favorite film developing shop. It’s just like any other 35mm film camera except you have the Gudetama butt staring at you when you look into the viewfinder.

The camera has a 200-400 ISO with a 31mm f/9 lens and 1/120 second shutter speed. It’s pretty light as it only weighs 122g and may even be lighter than your smartphone. It’s pretty cute that kids these days are enjoying taking analog photos and having cute cameras like this one adds to the appeal.

The post Gudetama 35mm camera lets you embrace basic analog photography first appeared on Yanko Design.

Imagine zooming into distant wildlife or capturing expansive landscapes with crisp clarity directly from your smartphone. The Excope DT1 is designed to make this a reality, providing photography enthusiasts at all skill levels the power to take super-telephoto imagery effortlessly. Weighing just 1.32 pounds, the Excope DT1 is engineered for ease of use and portability. It features one-touch shooting and recording, with power and shutter buttons conveniently located on the right side of the grip for quick access.

Designer: BEAVERLAB Tech

Click Here to Buy Now: $219 $379 ($160 off). Hurry, only 4/158 left! Raised over $790,000.

The camera is powered by a large, non-removable 3,000mAh battery that supports fast charging via a Type-C connection and typically lasts for 2.5 hours on a full charge. For longer shoots, a power bank can be connected, providing extended use without interruption. The camera’s design includes a phone holder and grip that can be tilted up and down to adjust the camera angle and height for optimal shooting comfort and perspective. Additionally, the rotating focus ring on the lens allows for precise manual focusing, enhancing control over image sharpness and depth.

With a focal length of 400mm, Excope DT1 magnifies the distant subject 200 times and brings it to your phone screen.

With a 48-megapixel sensor, this camera ensures that every distant object is rendered in tack-sharp detail, whether it’s the fluttering wings of a bird or the intricate contours of far-off mountains. The Excope DT1 is well-equipped with two interchangeable lenses—40mm and 400mm—delivering sharp, high-quality images at fixed focal lengths. The 400mm lens, for example, brings your subject 200 times closer, making it feel like you’re standing right next to distant objects. This lens features a 12-layer coating, enhancing image quality by reducing reflections and increasing light transmission. Weighing 600g, the Lens 400 is surprisingly lightweight for its capabilities. The sensor size of 1/1.8″ and a pixel size of 2.0μm on the CMOS enhance its sensitivity, allowing it to perform exceptionally in various lighting conditions.

Powered by the large 1/1.8″, 2.0um CMOS sensor and image algorithm, Excope DT1 enables up to 48-megapixel resolution.

With plans to introduce a versatile zoom lens, the Excope DT1 is gearing up to meet a wide range of photographic needs. Stability during shoots is crucial, especially at long distances, and the Excope DT1 meets this challenge head-on with its advanced EIS gyroscope and AI algorithm anti-shake technology, ensuring that your captures are consistently clear and stable, no matter the conditions.

The Excope DT1 app is designed to significantly enhance your photography experience, allowing you to make real-time adjustments to settings, engage in high-speed burst shooting, and manage high-definition 4K videos and photos directly from your connected device. This seamless integration boosts the camera’s effectiveness, especially in varying lighting conditions. The camera is also equipped with a powerful 1.5Tops Novatek processor for advanced AI processing, HDR shooting capabilities, and wifi control, making it versatile and highly adaptive to complex photographic tasks.

Reduce noise level through algorithms to output a more clear image.

The Excope DT1 also offers six dedicated shooting modes tailored for various photography scenarios: Moon, Landscape, Portrait, Night Mode, Sports, and Cloudy. Each mode optimizes camera settings to ensure the best possible results under specific conditions. Whether you’re capturing the granular surface of the moon, vibrant landscapes, detailed portraits, dynamic sports actions, or scenes under cloudy skies, these modes make it easy to achieve stunning, professional-quality photos without needing to manually adjust settings.

Discover different kind of beauty in the night, see the unseen.

Additionally, the app’s Burst Shooting mode is perfect for capturing action sequences. It allows you to take up to 25 frames per second, ensuring you don’t miss the critical moment, whether it’s a bird in flight or a dramatic sports play. Beyond shooting, the Excope DT1 app simplifies photo and video management. You can conveniently browse, save, or delete files from online storage, streamlining how you handle your digital content. This integration focus is to save you time while also enhancing the overall user experience, making it easier to share and enjoy your creative work.

With 64GB of storage, the Excope DT1 accommodates an adequate amount of high-resolution photos and videos. It supports common image file formats such as JPG and RAW, providing flexibility in how you manage and process your images. Furthermore, the camera’s mounting mechanism is compatible with all straight-screen smartphones and standard tripods, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into your photography setup.

Click Here to Buy Now: $219 $379 ($160 off). Hurry, only 4/158 left! Raised over $790,000.

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