Going modular

CEBU, Philippines -  If you're under the impression that 'mirrorless cameras' are the only new generation imaging systems that have been captivating the fancies of hotography hobbyists and pros, think again.

A relatively new product standard that bridges the divide between smart device functionality and the upsides of a single-function camera has been turning a lot of heads its way - a standard that 'converts' the average smart device into a camera that has a lens that performs well in low-light conditions, has a better depth of field range and more dynamic focusing capabilities.

Popularly known as the 'modular camera system for smart devices', the operation of this system is not complicated to grasp: you simply hook up a modular camera with your smartphone, then capture high quality stills or videos.

To a certain extent, the system affords smart device owners with the option to attach a more robust camera to a mobile device. Though, in general, it is still at its infancy stage, different brands have been rolling out modular camera systems for smart devices:

Sony's "QX" Line -

Sony's "QX" camera/lens modules are self-contained cameras that can be controlled using a smartphone or tablet.

Unveiled in September 2013, the line is a pioneer in modular camera systems for smart devices. These are devices composed of a zoom lens, processing chips and image sensors, stereo microphones (for videos), memory card slots and a battery.

With this modular camera, a smartphone functions as a "viewfinder," since the device line doesn't have an LCD monitor. It wirelessly connects with a smart device via WiFi or via NFC (near filed communication) hardware.

Its high-end variant - the "QX100" - is described by tech pundits as a variation of Sony's "RX100M2" camera - one of the brand's more well-received and well-reviewed imaging devices. Given this comparison, the QX line is considered to be a compact modular camera system that fulfills the needs of the point-and-shoot camera user.

For photographers with advanced photography gadgetry needs, another type of system may be of more interest - the "Air A01" by Olympus.

Project Ara

Given the upsides of modular cameras for smart devices, one can surmise that products like Olympus' "A01" and Sony's "QX" line seem to be well on their way into becoming the new kings of the photography-gadgets field.

But whether these are 'game changers' or just 'new players' continues to be asked, owing to the existence of a whole new class of devices that's currently in its development stages - the modular smartphone.

Headed by the Advanced Technologies and Projects group (under the direction of Google's Android division) and branded by the codename "Project Ara," the modular smartphone is envisioned as a type of smart device that can accommodate different types of hardware components.

Simply put, the project is pushing for the development of a smartphone that can be configured or assembled to meet with the specific needs of the user. Need a higher-end screen? With a modular smartphone, you can swap screen modules. Need more processing power? You can swap processors with a modular smartphone.

Need a better smartphone camera? The concept of upgrading to a higher-end camera module is also applicable with modular smartphones - hence its standing as a looming threat to the modular camera for smart devices line.

All in all, the various rumors suggesting that we'll be seeing commercial-class modular smartphones by late 2016 has left the 'kingmaker' status of modular camera systems for smart devices open.

To date though, the product class has been making some advances in the photography field - given how it combines the best of imaging and smart device functions.

Olympus' "Air A01" -

"QX" line, Olympus' "Air A01" can also be fitted to a smartphone or tablet for advanced image capturing. What makes it different is that it touts interchangeable lenses that allow its users to fit a variety of lenses to serve particular needs.

Launched just this year, the "Air A01" wirelessly connects with a smart device either via WiFi or Bluetooth. With the M4/3 lens mount as its interchangeable lens standard, it is compatible with a huge selection of lenses that are designed for mirrorless cameras.

With an ideal combination of lenses and apps, the camera system can take pictures that are comparably as stunning as those that are taken by cameras used to shoot concerts or weddings.

Developed with support for professional-grade RAW+JPEG mode shooting, the modular camera system is quite advanced and packed with features for a system of its class - built to be robust enough for the needs of photography pros.