Blog — lightmeter

We now have prototypes for both the iPhone 4 & 5.  We tested them against the Sekonic and they seem to hold up great.  Can't really see a difference more that 1/2 a stop.  The best part is it keeps reading without pressing a button. The data changes as the light changes.  Glad we only rented the Sekonic as this works just as well. Looks like we are getting close to having a real product. Kickstarter here we come!  

  Prototype #3 This 3d printed prototype was made at Shapeways It fits perfectly on the iPhone 4    That one step closer to the final product.  The integration dome is working well and getting good readings.  I think it could be bigger to collect more light for the camera.  We tried to use printed domes, but they were not the correct translucent material.   The dome needs to have 18% light transmission.  Luckily we found stock sheet material that has these exact properties.  We then had to form that material in to the dome shape we needed.  

With our second prototype we looked at using both cameras front and back. The idea was to enable meteringin both directions. Some standalone light meters have a swiveling top for this purpose.   We later decided this was unnecessary and focused on the font side camera.  This should give the most ergonomic design for the photographer. 

We have made some cad Models of our prototype and are sending them off to Shapeways.   They will take our 3-d model and make a real physical prototype.    It's amazing to see a virtual model you have made in a computer just arrive in the mail.     3-d printing is awesome!