Godox C100: A $29 Camera with a Transparent Display and Light Meter
Camera with transparent display launches for the equivalent of $29
The Godox C100 is a unique compact camera featuring a transparent display that functions as an optical viewfinder, making it look like a small window. Priced at just $29, this lightweight device records photos and videos while doubling as a dedicated light meter for analog cameras. Although it lacks Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to keep costs down, it offers a practical tool for photographers needing quick exposure readings without breaking the bank.
At least for photographers, however, the Godox C100 is meant to be more than just a toy, because at the touch of a button, the camera can be transformed into a light meter that indicates the correct exposure at the center of the frame.
- zerobees
I don't understand how this works. If it's a transparent display that just passes through light and adds some overlay information (like a viewfinder on d/SLR cameras of the old), then doesn't the frame change completely depending on the distance you're holding the device at in relation to your face?
It can't be meant to be used with your arm fully outstretched, because that would be an impractically narrow field of view. So how do you "calibrate" your stance to make the capture match the FOV of the glass rectangle you're looking through?
- atombender
For those struggling to find tech specs: Apparently [1] it has a 2MP CMOS sensor, F2.4 aperture, 24mm equivalent wide-angle lens, and shoots a resolution of 1920x1080.
[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/toycameras/comments/1ukcl55/godox_c...
- neon_diogenes
When I use a camera with an optical viewfinder, I feel more connected to my subject. Sure all the modern pro cameras are using EVFs now, and their performance is excellent, but I do think it’s a more disconnected shooting experience.
Think about the optical chain.
EVF: Subject —-> real time digital processor —-> screen —-> shooters eye
OVF: subject —-> mirror/glass —-> shooters eye
My hipster take is that makes shooting with an OVF a more “pure” experience. Not that it matters from the subjects POV though..
Seems like a cool camera. I think I will pick one up for my daughter.
- zoom6628
Great for kids to get started.
Saves to SD so you don't fill your mobile storage with 12,000 beach photos from last holiday.
Cheaper to lose/replace than ifone.
I still have a LUMIX camera 10+ years for instant pics when travelling. Smaller than my wallet.
- TonyZYT2000
This also functions as a light meter for analog photographing. There are light meter apps on smart phones, but it is fun to measure through a lighter/simpler equipment.