The Light L16 was conceived as a groundbreaking innovation in the world of photography. The idea was to create a multi-aperture computational camera that could deliver DSLR-quality images in a compact, smartphone-sized device. The L16 housed sixteen camera modules of varying focal lengths, and by pressing the shutter, it combined multiple captures to produce a high-resolution image with depth data. This allowed photographers to adjust focus and depth-of-field in post-processing, promising unparalleled flexibility and image quality.
The Light L16
When the Light L16 was launched in 2017, it was priced at $1,950. The camera featured a 5-inch touchscreen, 128GB of onboard storage, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor. It had a total of 16 individual lens and sensor modules: five 28mm f/2.0, five 70mm f/2.0, and six 150mm f/2.4 lenses. The camera could capture images with resolutions up to 52 megapixels and offered a focal length range equivalent to 28-150mm in 35mm terms.
The Light L16 was initially met with great enthusiasm and curiosity. However, it quickly became apparent that the device had several limitations. Early adopters reported issues with image quality, including glitches and artifacts, particularly in telephoto mode. The camera’s performance was also criticized for being too sluggish for anything but slow photography. Despite these challenges, the L16 continued to receive firmware and software updates until December 2019, when Light announced the end of its production.
As of now, the Light L16 is no longer in production, and Light has shifted its focus to other applications of its technology, such as self-driving vehicles. The L16 can still be found on secondary markets like eBay, often at significantly reduced prices. While there will be no further updates, the latest version of the Lumen software remains functional on macOS Catalina and Windows 10.
Photo samples comparing the Skyline , Nokia 9 Pureview and the Light L16 (max zoom) with a reference image.
Despite the many negative review of the Light L16, I found that the Light L16 is a device that needed more time to shine. Much of the initial frustration had left a bad impression on the L16 that many begin nitpicking on its flaws. But from a user of Nokia 9 Pureview, I have to say that the Light L16 is far more capable, far more enjoyable and definitely a powerful camera setup…..for USD150.
You can catch more on my take on the L16, how it performs on the latest software, and how you can even experience 4K recording on this device!
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