Unique ZNONZⅠ II “Lens” Shown at CP+ 2025

ZNONZⅠ makes an interesting “lens” that doesn’t use any lenses because it captures an image using diffracted light. The founder, Tatsuoki Takeda became tired of clinically perfect photography and decided to do something new with zone plate photography, which is a style of pinhole photography. The lens mount is a universal Leica M mount, and there are two types of lenses “Type I uses an amplitude type zone plate, while Type II uses a phase type zone plate.” They both are turret type that can produce four different images that is operated by the dial on the side that is similar to a wristwatch dial, but it to keep it from being misaligned with the optical access a geneva mechanism was developed for a mechanical feel.

Currently, these lenses can only be found directly and they should work on X and GFX mounts, but maybe retailers will be interested in carrying them if they become popular. There are more details and photos below.

ZNONZ I allows you to create unique images

Non-lens optical elements
While a lens refracts light, ZNONZ I uses the phenomenon of light diffraction to form images.

Amplitude type zone plate
ZNONZ I uses an amplitude type zone plate. Its structure, which is different from that of a lens, gives it a unique character.

Four imaging elements
The turret can be used to switch between four different types of imaging elements.

Unique image creation
Photos taken with the ZNONZ I produce unique images that differ from those captured by any lens.

ZNONZ II: Further evolution with phase-type zone plates

Non-lens optical elements
The ZNONZ II also uses the diffraction phenomenon of light to form an image, which works on a different principle than lenses that use refraction.

Phase type zone plate
The staircase structure has steps that are in sync with the wavelength of light, so that the light coming from each step is in phase at the focal point.

Brighter
By using a transparent material, it is possible to obtain a brighter image than the amplitude type.

Four imaging elements
The turret can be used to switch between three types of phase type zone plates with different numbers of stages and shapes, and a Fibonacci zone plate that is an amplitude type but different from ZNONZ I.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGf98IK4U58

via dc.watch