Light Takes on DSLR With the Point-And-Shoot L16 Camera

Photography startup Light has launched L16, which the company’s calling a “a multi-aperture computational camera,” at the Code/Mobile conference. It’s named L16, because it’s equipped with 16 individual lenses, though unlike bulky and heavy DSLRs, Recode says it’s just about the size of a Nexus 6 that’s double the thickness. When you take a picture using the camera, all 16 lenses capture photos simultaneously at different focal lengths in order to “capture more data in every shot.” Light’s technology then combines all of them into a single 52-megapixel image — you can adjust the photo’s depth of field, focus and exposure after it’s been captured.

The L16 runs on Android and has built-in WiFi, allowing you to post pictures directly from the device. It comes with an integrated 35mm-150mm optical zoom and a five-inch touchscreen display. If you think you’ll be able to save money switching to this from an entry-level or mid-range DSLR, though, you’re sadly mistaken .”

Light is debuting the L16 on Wednesday at the Code/Mobile conference at The Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay, Calif. Grannan is showing the device onstage, while conference attendees will be able to have their picture taken in one of Re/code’s signature red chairs using a prototype of the device.

The company will take preorders, with a limited number of units available for $1,299, until Nov. 6. After that the price jumps to $1,699, with the first L16 devices not expected to ship until late next summer.