By Leonard Goh
30/09/2008
URL: http://asia.cnet.com/reviews/digitalcameras/0,39001469,62046691,00.htm

Ever since digital imaging became popular, Fujifilm has been the pioneer of several new technologies. It was one of the first manufacturers to concentrate on the niche market of low-light photography, and also introduced face detection features into compact cameras. At the recent Photokina imaging tradeshow, the Japanese company has unveiled another ground-breaking idea--a 3D digital camera as well as its visions on 3D imaging.

Previously, creating a 3D image was a hassle because it involves a stereo camera (most of are film-based) specialized viewing accessories such as 3D glasses and lots of which post-processing of the images.

For its 3D camera, Fujifilm has incorporated two lenses into the shooter. When taking a 3D picture, these optics are synchronized with a minimal difference of 0.001 second. Exposure controls are synchronized in the same way, too. After the shutter is pressed, the two CCD sensors will pass the information to the newly developed RP (Real Photo) Processor 3D, which then combines the two images into one 3D picture. The rear of the shooter house a 2.8-inch LCD that has been engineered to show both 3D and 2D images, and Fujifilm claimed "screen flickering and image deterioration are reduced to absolute minimum".

By relying on its experience with its Frontier photo printing system, Fujifilm has modified it to output lenticular prints, which "moves" or changes as you look at it from different angles, thus giving the 3D effect. Beside physical prints, the firm has also revealed plans for an 8.4-inch FinePix Real 3D photo frame capable of displaying 3D images without the need for users to wear 3D glasses.

With dual-lens technology in hand, the company is expanding the possibilities of the new camera system. It is looking to record video and capture high-res images at the same time, or simultaneously snap two images with different exposure settings and/or focal length.

We are guessing that this camera would probably be priced at the S$600 to S$900 range, and is targeted at the tech-savvy mainstream crowd. Advanced photographers would probably not see a need for 3D cameras, so in order for the company to capture as many audience as possible with a new product, it has to generate as much hype as possible when debut.

However, we foresee some hidden costs for this system. To fully enjoy the 3D images, you'll need suitable hardware such as the 3D picture frame or similar products and these gadgets may be costly. The typical photo displays we use now will not be able to show the 3D effects properly. While there are 3D-enabled display panels in the market today, each of them seems to be using different technologies to project the visuals. Will Fujifilm's 3D imaging system be compliant to the most popular standard, or will the company be creating its proprietary format? This is certainly one deciding factor that will probably be on the minds of most potential buyers.

Will there be competition? For now, it is simply too early to tell if consumers will be receptive to this new technology. But if it takes off, we won't be surprised to see other brands developing similar or better 3D shooters to get a piece of this niche market.

Fujifilm is planning to launch this camera next year, so keep a lookout for it. Meanwhile, we will find out more information from the company regarding this revolutionary point-and-shoot, so check back with us soon.