Camera takes family photos in 3D

THE future of family photo album is, it seems, 3D.

With the unveiling of the world’s first 3D camera and printing service, Japanese company Fujifilm believes it can revolutionise how we capture those special moments.

Fujifilm’s new FinePix camera can be printed on special 3D paper, which is ready to stick in the album or be instantly viewed on the camera’s built-in display.

Unlike the 3D films in cinemas, special glasses do not need to be worn to experience the effect.

Fujifilm’s camera takes two photos simultaneously from its two lenses which are fixed a similar distance apart to human eyes.

Using “lenticular” technology, the separate left and right eye images are interlaced on a furrowed surface to create the 3D illusion.

This method has been around since the 1940s and was typically used on novelty items and stickers, featuring simple two-frame animations, like a winking eye.

However, the old technology is now being used in a wave of state-of-the-art 3D products, games consoles and billboard posters.

Fujifilm’s new gadget incorporates a high-definition 3D video camera, compatible with any 3D television.

The new FinePix Real 3D W3 goes on sale in early September and is expected to cost around €450.

Fujifilm said 3D printing will be available “shortly” after the camera’s launch.