South Korean startup Lutra has introduced a new brand named Humans of Authenticity (HOA), debuting a screen-free digital camera that features a large open viewfinder. The design allows photographers to maintain direct eye contact with their subjects and feel more present while framing shots instead of staring at a display, as reported by The Verge based on information from PetaPixel.
Design and Technical Specifications
Resembling the Godox C100, the HOA A1 places its lens and sensor near the center of a large viewfinder window. The HOA A1 First Edition is scheduled for a limited release of 100 units on December 1st, priced at 360,000 South Korean won, which converts to $289 for customers in the United States. Preorders have not yet opened.
The device is equipped with a 16-megapixel Sony sensor measuring 1/2.53 inches, combined with a 26mm f/1.75 lens. A small rear LCD screen is dedicated solely to showing technical details such as battery status and the number of shots remaining. Operating as a strict point-and-shoot device, the camera features a single shutter button positioned on its top edge.
Connectivity and Blockchain Authentication
The company website lacks extensive technical specifications and sample photographs, noting that developers are still fine-tuning the color and tone alongside professional photographers. Rather than using USB cables or physical memory cards, the camera connects to Wi-Fi to transfer images wirelessly when users tap a smartphone against the back of the device.
While internet access is not required to capture images, a Wi-Fi connection is necessary to view and download them. The device utilizes a system known as ShootProof, which authenticates every captured photograph by attaching an anonymous certificate recorded onto a public blockchain. This function is mandatory, though users can toggle a signature mode on or off to apply their personal signature, created in a companion app, to the corner of each image.
