Get ready to witness a groundbreaking innovation: visually impaired individuals can now “see” photographs, thanks to the pioneering work of the Japanese tech giant, Canon. This isn’t some sci-fi fantasy or AI-generated trickery—it’s real, reliable, and tested. Let’s dive into what we consider the epitome of technological breakthroughs. It involves low-vision photographers.
Lead image is a screenshot taken from Canon’s Video. All images otherwise courtesy of Canon.
Canon teamed up with the Christian Library for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBB) in Europe to unveil one of the largest Braille printers ever seen in the region. But wait, there’s more. This marvel of innovation steals the spotlight at Gitex Africa 2024 in Morocco, where the country’s very own trailblazer, Dr. Hamid Nabil, the first blind student to earn a PhD, steps up to put it to the test.
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This isn’t just a printer; it’s a game-changer. It empowers, enables, and breaks down barriers. So, buckle up and get ready to witness technology rewriting the rules.
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of Canon’s printing process, let’s highlight the enduring challenges faced by low-vision and blind photographers. Despite this, few companies have stepped up with solutions tailored to their needs, such as cameras designed for left-handed photographers. Sony led the charge with its Retinal Projection Camera Kit, granting users the ability to see their loved ones and vibrant colors for the first time. As we encounter individuals with diverse needs, it becomes increasingly apparent that technology should actively empower everyone rather than profit from a handful of able-bodied users.
Returning to Canon’s initiative, let’s explore PRISMAelevate XL (also known as Arizona Touchstone), a cutting-edge system that produces full-color elevated prints. Here’s how it works: images or graphics are printed onto both positive and negative molds, which are then precision-cut using the Zünd/ProCut table. These molds are subsequently inserted into the Heidelberg press, where the paper is pressed between them. This meticulous process ensures that the quality of the Braille is vastly superior to alternative methods. With the new molds, approximately 1000 embossed papers can be produced, a significant improvement over the previous method, which only yielded 250 papers.
Andrea Haklander, Braille and Relief Manager at The Christian Library for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBB), one of Europe’s largest braille printing services, expressed, “We can now offer customers braille, large prints, audio, embossing, and digital reading matter in one complete package, thanks to Arizona.”
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We’ve emphasized the significance of print, but for individuals with low vision or visual impairment, traditional prints offer limited utility. Canon’s initiative, however, presents a paradigm shift, unlocking a gateway to knowledge where blind and low-vision individuals can engage in photography alongside their peers. This breakthrough not only allows them to experience the world in unprecedented ways but also empowers them to use their newfound abilities to craft meaningful narratives.
The Phoblographer recently interviewed a diverse range of visually impaired photographers, and their works speak volumes. Without prior knowledge of their identities or conditions, their photography is sure to surprise and inspire. (You can view their works here.) The series was a paid partner project with Sony. Phoblographer’s Editor in Chief, Chris Gampat, is also low-vision.
Expanding beyond photography, the creation of stunning prints opens the door to experiencing history beyond words. Imagine beholding Monet’s delicate color palette, immersing oneself in Van Gogh’s swirling shades of the night sky, or marveling at Da Vinci’s masterful depiction of human anatomy. The possibilities with braille photographs are truly endless.
Humans are inherently creative beings, and for those who have been marginalized due to inadequate facilities or equipment, a more inclusive approach is urgently needed. While spreading awareness about accessibility is crucial, it is especially vital in exclusive realms like arts and culture. Embracing inclusivity not only transforms our perceptions of art but also has the potential to enhance it for everyone involved.