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Companies like Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, Leica, and more have shown us what technological advancements can achieve. From a medium format compact camera to a digital device with no screen, there are so many such models that push boundaries every day. However, it is also true that such technology advancements cost you a lot, with very few alternatives out there to meet the needs of those who are just beginning their journey. If you are someone who has always wanted a Leica-inspired retro camera, then you will certainly like Echolens, which has Leica’s aesthetics but is very affordable.
Echolens is a digital retro camera that helps you get images that look like film. It is known to merge 35mm film photography with wireless image transfer. However, the images that you get are exactly like those captured from disposable cameras from the 1990s. Although the retro camera is not yet in production stage, Echolens, per Photo Rumors, will soon launch a Kickstarter campaign, which will allow people to back the project and even get the benefits.
So far, the retro camera is said to feature a physical film wind, which needs to be used before you make an image. This is similar to the mechanism seen on film cameras, which is something that many young photographers enjoy. In addition, you also get a flash, a USB-C charger, and a Wi-Fi syncing system, which can transfer your images to cloud storage. In fact, since this is a digital version of a film camera, your images will be stored per roll (about 54 images), giving you the same experience as a film camera. If you look at the design, the Echolens also features a screen, which is reminiscent of Leica’s M-D series.
Echolens also features built-in film filters, which provide you with the same retro aesthetics seen on film. The images offer similar grains, as well as vintage film stocks like Portra and Ektachrome.
This venture was started by three friends in Southern California who love film photography. The retro camera’s prototype is in the final stages, and in the Summer of 2025, Echolens will be available on Kickstarter to get more funding and scale the production. The retail price of the device is said to be $150, but on Kickstarter, the early bird price will be under $100.
This does remind one of the Camp Snap Photo, a retro-inspired digital camera for kids. However, what sets Echolens apart is the design, which is classy, but also features such as a lever and film-inspired filters, giving more creative freedom to Gen Z, who are the ideal group for such a device. There will be some millennials who will also purchase this because of how fun it could be. However, anyone serious about film photography will certainly not go for it. This is ideal for people who want to bridge the gap between film and digital.
If you are someone who would be interested in this, then head over to Echolens’ website for more details.
