Panasonic Announces Interchangeable 3D Camera Lens

Panasonic's new 3D lens

By the end of the year, it may be possible to put some added "depth" to your photos thanks to a new lens by Panasonic that will allow the camera to record in 3D.

The lens in question is for Panasonic's Micro Four Thirds system. Unfortunately, exact specifications (focal length, f ratio, etc.) were not given, but what was stated was how the lens would work and a picture was released, too.

Unlike traditional SLR lenses, this new model from Panasonic has twin optics. Each lens sends an image through to the camera's sensor, where it is recorded. By using supplied image processing software, users then can manipulate the data into a 3D still image, which then can be projected in full 3D effect via one of Panasonic's Viera 3D television models.

Previously, 3D photography required two separate lens/sensor systems for a single camera or an expensive panorama setup. Now, with Panasonic's new, interchangeable 3D lens, photographers the world over can make quick and easy 3D images on the go and still retain all the versatility of a SLR system. Panasonic is already predicting a hit, with senior manager Darin Pepple stating that 2010 will be the "first year of the 3D era."

Well, that in itself may be a stretch, but affordable 3D imaging is, without doubt, just over the horizon, as 3D point and shoot cameras are already on the market. The real test will come when the new Panasonic lens starts finding its way onto cameras.

In the past, Panasonic has been an innovator, pioneering the mirrorless Micro Four Thirds system, which retains the interchangeable lenses and size of a SLR sensor but eliminates the mirror, allowing for a large reduction in size, especially depth. Already, Olympus, Samsung, and Sony have copied this concept for their own cameras.

Back to the lens, no specific release date was announced, nor was an estimated price, either.

For the full story:
Panasonic Press Release



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