Phone cameras have come a long way, focusing on image processing and giving users more control over their photos. Despite this, many still appreciate the nostalgia of old-school photography. Developer Alex Fox captured this sentiment while creating the Mood.camera app.
The app allows users to switch between retro filters, adjust quality and tone through a dial, switch lenses, and adjust exposure from the main screen. What sets it apart is the lack of a live preview feature, producing unique and intriguing results.
Image Credits: Alex Fox
Fox intentionally omitted live preview and editing features to encourage users to focus on the moment rather than the effects. This deliberate design decision aims to reignite the magic of photography.
Inspired by the simplicity of traditional photography, Fox stated, “Some of the design decisions I made were intended to reduce the conveniences we’re used to, urging users to be in the moment instead of worrying about which filter to use or staring at their phone editing.”
Image Credits: Alex Fox/Mood.camera
After developing a prototype in October 2023, Fox released a beta version on Reddit earlier this year. He collaborated with photographers to refine the app, resulting in over 100,000 photos taken. The app offers a seven-day free trial, followed by a subscription fee of $1.99 per month or a one-time payment of $14.99.
While recent apps like Lapse, Dispo, and Later Cam have attempted to emulate retro cameras by limiting functionality, independent developers like Fox aim for sustainability and long-term success over venture-backed outcomes.
