Fujifilm releases 3D Printer in the UK

According to a press release, Fujifilm has positioned itself as market leader in 3D photography with the launch of the FinePix 3D REAL W1 digital camera and FinePix REAL V1 digital photo frame in Autumn 2009. These allow users to capture and view 3D images without the need to wear special 3D glasses. To print their 3D photos, currently users have to order prints online directly from Fujifilm. These are printed on a special Frontier system in Japan and can take several weeks to return to the consumer.

With the launch of the new 3D Print System, 3D prints can be created on the spot, using a PC to process the MPO file via Fujifilm’s newly developed image processing software. Using Fujifilm’s proprietary "Image Intelligence" technology and "3D Image Processing", high quality, life-like prints are produced in a matter of minutes. Excellent ‘photographic’ results are produced using dye-sublimation technology to print directly on to the base of a lenticular sheet.

As prints can be produced locally with the minimum of fuss, consumers can receive their prints back in days, not weeks, and the cost per print will be reduced significantly.

Thanks to the small footprint of the system – 0.9m (H) x 0.5m (W) x 0.5m (D) – the offering of 3D prints can be established easily without the need for much space, perfect for event photographers who need a portable system, and for shops where space is at a premium.

Another significant improvement on the existing service is a wider variety of products. Prints will be available in four sizes, from 4×6 inches to larger 6×9 prints. And, rather than the standard 3D prints currently available, the new print system can also combine a 3D image with a 3D template, and a 2D image with a 3D template. These new 3D print varieties are well suited to on-site print services, at venues such as theme parks, tourist attractions and cruise ships.

As an industry leader in the 3D photography market, these new developments in 3D printing ensure that Fujifilm continues to develop and expand its 3D offering enabling more and more people to discover the wonders of 3D image capture.