Budget-friendly, vintage-style compact camera surpasses Kickstarter goal with 27 days remaining in campaign
Let's Dive into the Retro Revolution: The Echolens Kickstarter and Its Vintage Charm
The Echolens Kickstarter is creating a buzz in the photography world, and after just a few days, it's clear that this retro-inspired camera has captured the hearts of many. As of today, the project has surpassed its $30,000 target, raking in a staggering $129,742 from 1,110 backers. With 28 days left on the clock, there's still plenty of time for more enthusiasts to jump on board this vintage train.
If you miss the early bird deal of $125, don't sweat it. You can still grab the standard package for a reasonable $149. The initial black and brown leatherette options are available, but the developers are promising to introduce more color options if the camera reaches 2,500 backers. For those who want to take things up a notch, a portable printer will be added to the mix if the campaign reaches 5,000 backers – and it's already more than halfway there.
The Echolens camera is like a modern-day time machine. Inspired by the Fujifilm X100VI, it's all about delivering that film-esque photography experience with a digital twist. "We wanted to feel the click, the winding crank, and the moment of surprise when you see a developed frame, yet still be able to share instantly," says Echolens.
The camera comes with an optical viewfinder, no rear LCD screen, and precision-machined controls. Maybe the most unique feature is the digital roll of film, which you'll control via the Echolens Companion App (iOS and Android). The app offers four film types: Kodagrain, Dreamroll, B&W, and Rosebyte, each providing 54 shots. Though you can't view your images directly on the camera, you can sync them via Wi-Fi to the app.
Let's be honest; we all need a break from the complex digital interfaces and phone cameras once in a while. The Echolens is making it happen in a way that's not only throwback-cool but also budget-friendly. With other compact cameras like the Yashica FX-D 300 and the premium Fujifilm X Half jumping on the filmic digital bandwagon, it looks like retro is the way to go. So, stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project. Don't miss your chance to be part of the Echolens Kickstarter revolution – check it out here.
If you're into all things retro, you might want to check out these other gems:
- The New Fujifilm X Half: Weird but Wonderful, Combining Favorite Cameras into One Retro Compact
- Top Picks: The Best Retro Cameras – Bring Back the Good Old Days
- Take a Step Back: The Best Film Cameras – Seize the Past, Capture the Present
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Words from the Expert – Mike Harris
Mike Harris, a long-time photographer, has graced us with insights from his extensive experience in the field. With bylines in Digital Camera, PhotoPlus: The Canon Magazine, Practical Photography, Digital Photographer, iMore, TechRadar, and more, Mike is the go-to guy for techniques on cameras, lenses, tripods, filters, and beyond. Whether it's portraits, landscapes, abstracts, architecture, wildlife, or racing cars – Mike's got you covered.
- The Echolens Kickstarter, with its retro charm, has garnered significant interest in the photography world, surpassing its initial goal of $30,000 with a whopping $129,742 raised so far.
- The Echolens camera is inspired by the Fujifilm X100VI, aiming to deliver a film-like photography experience with a digital twist, appealing to many photography enthusiasts.
- The Echolens camera features an optical viewfinder, precision-machined controls, and a digital roll of film controlled via the Echolens Companion App, which offers four film types for different photographic styles.
- Mike Harris, an accomplished photographer with numerous bylines in various publications, offers his expertise on camera techniques, covering various genres such as portraits, landscapes, wildlife, and more.
- As the retro trend gains momentum in the photography world, other compact cameras like the Yashica FX-D 300 and the premium Fujifilm X Half are joining the filmic digital bandwagon, making it an exciting time for retro photography enthusiasts.
- To stay updated on camera deals, product advice, and the latest photography news, subscribe to the Digital Camera World Newsletter, bringing the world of photography right to your inbox.
