Hands-on with the Digital Harinezumi

Leonard Goh | Jul 17, 2009

The tiny Digital Harinezumi. (Credit: Leonard Goh/CNET Asia)

Previously, we reported on Japanese vendor Superheadz's first digicam, the Digital Harinezumi. This quirky camera promised to deliver Lomo-esque pictures with a soft, out-of-focus feel. To test that out, we contacted our sources and finally got hold of an unit.

The 2-megapixel Digital Harinezumi is not for perfectionists or gearheads. This shooter is probably one of the most low-tech gadgets we've tried, yet we were satisfied with the pictures it produced. Our shots had a dreamy-feel, and more often than not the results were surprisingly different each time and individual snaps had a unique touch to it. Check out our snaps below to see what we mean.

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As for the camera's specifications, Superheadz's Web site did not indicate much but this is what we gathered after trying out the snapper.

Although the Digital Harinezumi has an LCD, there is no Live View function in still image capture mode. So we had to rely on the flip-up plastic frame to compose our shots. However, it is often inaccurate, but that only adds to the fun when taking pictures with this shooter. Controls offered by the camera are minimal; you can only adjust the ISO sensitivity (ISO 100 and 800) and resolution (Hi and Lo). There is a small switch on the right side which toggles between shooting and playback mode.

Another special feature of the Digital Harinezumi is its video function. You can compose the scene with the rear display and the vintage-looking clips recorded are at 640 x 480-pixel resolution. Just as with most old 8mm video cameras, there is no audio capture.

silla-viento-peces from nick dangerfield on Vimeo.

The shooter is powered by a CR2 battery which is commonly available in most convenience stores. This snapper accepts microSD or microSDHC media (up to 4GB) for storing image and video files.

Although the Digital Harinezumi looks affordable, its S$235 (US$168.18) price tag indicates otherwise. For this price, you can get an entry-level point-and-shoot with more functions and a higher resolution. But we believe this quirky snapper will find its way into the hearts of many Lomo fans.

The Digital Harinezumi is available at the Superheadz Web site, 8storeytree or other online retailers. Alternatively, you can check with your local photo store.

Filed under: Digital Cameras
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