Kenko Tokina’s latest release, the Pieni III, is redefining digital photography with its ultra-compact design and deliberate embrace of low-fidelity aesthetics. The device, weighing a mere 18 grams, doubles as a necklace pendant, measuring just 53 millimeters (2 inches) wide. The design recalls classic film cameras, with its silver top and circular lens, and is available in four vibrant hues: pastel pink (Strawberry), pale blue (Soda), Milk, and Black.
A Minimalist Approach to the Pieni III Model
The Pieni III stands out by forgoing a traditional screen or viewfinder. Photographers are left with the exhilarating mystery of shooting “blind,” capturing images unaware of the exact composition until they later transfer them to another device. This element of surprise introduces a playful uncertainty; subjects may stray from the center, and unexpected elements may enter the frame, adding character to each shot. This style of photography is perfect for enthusiasts of lo-fi photography.
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Designed for Simplicity and Spontaneity
Kenko Tokina has kept the Pieni III’s controls delightfully simple, comprising just two buttons for power, shutter release, and toggling between photo and video modes. The small camera captures video at 720 × 480 pixels with sound, at 30 frames per second. Despite its modest size, the model functions independently and effectively.
Using a 1/10-inch CMOS sensor, the Pieni III offers still images as interpolated JPEGs at 1440 × 960 pixels, resulting in a distinctive, softened image quality reminiscent of early digital photos. Sample images from Kenko highlight this uniqueness, turning flowers into soft bursts of color and foliage into a painterly blur.
Magnetic Features and Modern Connectivity
An innovative feature of the Pieni III is its magnetic back, allowing users to attach it to metal surfaces, like a fridge or railing, for hands-free shooting. This convenience complements its portability, enhanced by an included neck strap. Media is stored on a microSDHC card, supporting capacities from 4GB to 32GB, sold separately.
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The digital camera includes USB-C connectivity, enabling direct file transfer to smartphones. This connectivity also facilitates charging, streamlining the process from shooting to viewing.
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the weight of the Kenko Pieni III camera?
The Kenko Pieni III camera weighs a mere 18 grams.
How does the Pieni III camera capture images?
The Pieni III camera captures images without a traditional screen or viewfinder, letting photographers shoot ‘blind’ and discover the composition later when transferring images to another device.
What kind of images does the Pieni III produce?
The Pieni III offers still images as interpolated JPEGs at 1440 × 960 pixels, resulting in a distinctive, softened image quality reminiscent of early digital photos.
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