The L16 is the world's first multi-aperture computational camera. Utilizing a folded optics design, it simultaneously captures up to 10 images with 16 separate cameras at 3 focal lengths and then combines them using its computational algorithm to produce a 52MP image. This allows users to adjust depth of field, focus, and exposure after the images has been captured. Furthermore, thanks to the 16 cameras that range in focal lengths between 35mm to 150mm, the L16 will choose a subset of those cameras to capture images based on the field of view the users sets themselves.

Take a look at this promo for the Light L16 camera: 


This video will tell you all about the construction and engineering of the L16, as well as the journey Light has been on since 2013:

Light_2

Light_3

Light_4

Light_5

Though there are other cameras that allow you to refocus after the fact, like the Lytro Illum, the L16 will have actual video capabilities. However, not much is known about it's technical specifications, because -- well, Light hasn't shared them yet. (They're still in their prototype phase.) They promise to release a full spec list the closer they get to their Spring 2016 release, so until then, here are some exciting features they've mentioned in their FAQ section:

  • 5" touchscreen
  • 128GB of onboard storage
  • minimum focus:10 cm at wide angle (35mm); 1m at telephoto (150mm)
  • dust/water resistant
  • multi-aperture computational camera
  • shoots video up to 4K with optical zoom from 35-150mm equivalent focal length
  • standard 1/4"-20 tripod socket
  • GPS and accelerometer
  • Outputs JPEG, TIFF, and raw DNG
  • built-in dual-tone LED flash
  • $1700

That price isn't for the faint of heart -- or the hobbyist. And even though the technology the L16 utilizes is really exciting, surely customers are going to need to know a little bit more before they feel comfortable reserving this thing. Seeing as this camera is built with photographers in mind, filmmakers will no doubt need to know more about its video features before considering it an option for their projects.

We'll keep you posted on any new developments from Light.

Source: Light L16 Camera