Most Stunning Lomography Lens Creations

A Journey with the Lomography Joseph Petzval 80.5mm f1.9

Back in 2014, I had the opportunity to be one of the first reviewers of the Lomography Petzval lenses. They were unique and full of character, as the brand often likes to describe them. While I found some of their quirks annoying, I couldn’t deny the charm they brought. The lens was crafted from brass, had smooth-feeling knobs, and delivered image quality that still stands out today. Some of my best portraits from that time were taken using this lens. I even had to pause myself for a moment while writing this paragraph just to say, “God, Olivia was so beautiful.” When combined with the output the lens produced, I could spend hours looking at the images we created together in Brooklyn’s Park Slope.

Fast forward to 2025, and the Lomography Joseph Petzval 80.5mm f1.9 has arrived in my office as a loaner, with the 35mm f2 model on its way after a purchase. Let me tell you something: this is by far Lomography's most impressive creation yet.

I won't approach this article like a typical review because this isn't a standard lens from Japanese, Chinese, or Korean manufacturers. It's a character lens, and I'm not entirely sure where it's made or manufactured. However, the Lomography Joseph Petzval 80.5mm f1.9 delivers almost everything I desired years ago and brings along some new surprises.

You can still control the shape of the bokeh, and it still features the swirly Petzval look. This time, however, the effect is more controllable, and it remains a manual focus lens. This version is also notably sharp wide open. According to Lomography, the lens is "focus-coupled," which I believe is a bit misleading. To me, that implies it would work alongside the camera's focusing algorithms, similar to many manual focus Zeiss lenses. Instead, Lomography explains that "focus-coupled technology eliminates focus shifts when adjusting bokeh levels."

What I think it should be called is "focus confirmation," which is unfortunately absent in this lens.

The lens is still not weather-resistant, despite its substantial metal construction. In most cases, it feels like an absolute dream to hold, use, and enjoy. Honestly, I don't think I'd ever want to "control" the bokeh. At setting #7, you get all the swirl, and at #1, the swirl is subdued but still present. Changing the aperture affects how the look appears. From my experience, the swirly effect can nearly disappear at around f4. At f2.8, the lens is sharp enough that you shouldn't bother stopping it down if you want to balance the swirl and sharpness.

The only downside is the new process of changing the aperture shape. You have to unscrew a small part at the back of the lens, insert the shaper, and then screw it back in. The problem is that when you reassemble it, the aperture disk tends to spin. More importantly, achieving nice heart-shaped bokeh is challenging.

I also wish Lomography had provided hard-stopped apertures instead of de-clicked ones for video use.

Regarding image quality, in the words of poet Rudy Francisco, "Cupid is irresponsible, and I’m tired of him using me for target practice. If you’re confused by that, then know that I’m in love." Even images where the subject is slightly out of focus look really nice. I won’t lie—getting the focus perfectly sharp is a challenge, similar to using the Zeiss Milvux 85mm f1.4 lens in 2015. When you finally get something in focus, there's a sense of excitement and appreciation for the beauty of the image.

Before I continue, let me recap a bit. I'm legally blind, and manual focus is harder for me, even with focus peaking. Even when using contact lenses that allow me to see 20/18, I still struggled to manually focus this lens and get my subject perfectly in focus. This is common with longer, shallower focal lengths that lack focus confirmation.

The Canon EOS R I tested this lens on had film profiles loaded. Man, I didn't want to edit most of these photos if I got them right in-camera. This lens is that good, making me feel like there was love surrounding me—something I don't typically feel as a journalist. It's been a long time since I've shot with something like this. I usually only experience this feeling with Leica and early 2010s Zeiss lenses.

⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.

I give the Lomography Joseph Petzval 80.5mm f1.9 lens 4 out of 5 stars. The only things holding it back are the lack of weather resistance and difficulty for people with low vision to focus the lens. As someone who values inclusivity, these aspects are extremely important to me. With global warming becoming a more significant part of daily life, weather resistance is crucial.

Columbus Native's Vision: Revolutionizing Sleep Through Innovation

A New Approach to Better Sleep

A native of Columbus is working to change the way people sleep. Her vision is to reinvent the sleep mask, making it more effective and comfortable than ever before. Jill MacRae, co-founder of the Inactive Company, has taken on this challenge with a product that promises to transform the sleep experience.

The company's latest creation, Inactivators, is a high-tech sleep mask designed to create an "optimal" sleeping environment—completely dark, comfortable, and cool. These features are based on scientific research that shows how these conditions can significantly improve sleep quality.

Inactivators have already gained attention from professional athletes. College and pro football teams, including Georgia, Auburn, Dallas Cowboys, Atlanta Falcons, and New York Giants, have used the product. This success highlights the growing interest in products that support better rest and recovery.

The Journey of Jill MacRae

MacRae moved to Columbus at the age of four from Miami, Florida. Her passion for wellness was influenced by her father, a trauma surgeon. While she always considered wellness important, it wasn't until later in life that it became her focus.

She graduated from Hardaway High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia. Over the course of 25 years, she built a successful career in sales and marketing at major brands such as Spanx, Dunkin’ Brands, and Starbucks. It was during her time at Spanx that she met Lori Oliver, her future cofounder of the Inactive Company.

"We were traveling around the world and making all sorts of products, and we were always complaining about sleep," MacRae recalled. "We can never get enough sleep."

They tried various methods to improve their sleep, including gummies, vitamins, mattresses, and pillows. None of them worked. Eventually, Oliver had an idea.

"Lori called me one day and said, ‘I've got it. I got the solution to sleep better we've always been talking about,'” MacRae said. “‘I want to re-engineer a 100-year-old product, just like Sara [Blakely] did for Spanx with the girdle. I want to do it for a sleep mask.'”

Innovating the Sleep Mask

Oliver brought MacRae on board in 2019 to help build the company. It took about a year and a half to perfect the Inactivators. MacRae emphasized that they weren’t doctors or sleep experts, but they knew what worked from being consumers.

They collaborated with partners like the Emory Sleep Study Clinic and the Harvard Sleep Symposium to understand the criteria the body needs to fall and stay asleep. Translating this into tangible features in a mask was a significant challenge.

Features That Make a Difference

Since launching, Inactivators have become popular among professional athletes, especially those who typically avoid wearable technology like Apple Watches or Fitbits. The NFL Players Association has been a valuable partner, providing feedback on how the mask is used and helping to create a sleep culture for young athletes.

The mask offers several key features. First, it provides 100% darkness and blackout, which studies show helps the brain release melatonin, a hormone essential for the sleep-wake cycle. The mask also includes temperature-regulating material that absorbs heat according to the circadian rhythm. Consumer testing showed that this technology helps users sleep 20-30 minutes longer on average.

Another unique feature is the space provided for users to open their eyes under the mask. This was inspired by work with Emory University's Veterans Program and the Wounded Warriors program. Many people avoid sleep masks due to fear of not being able to open their eyes if they wake up in the middle of the night.

Expanding the Product Line

Inactivators are priced at $45 on their website. The Inactive Company is also expanding its product line to include pajamas and other items. This expansion reflects the growing demand for products that support better sleep and overall wellness.

As the company continues to grow, it remains focused on improving the sleep experience through innovation and science-backed design. With the support of professional athletes and ongoing research, the future of sleep may look very different—and much more comfortable.

Kite Acquires Interius BioTherapeutics for $350M to Boost In Vivo CAR T Development

Kite Acquires Interius BioTherapeutics to Expand In Vivo CAR Technology Portfolio

Kite, a subsidiary of Gilead Sciences (Nasdaq: GILD), has made a significant move in the biotechnology sector by acquiring Interius BioTherapeutics for $350 million in cash. This strategic acquisition aims to integrate in vivo chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology into Kite’s existing cell therapy offerings, marking a pivotal step toward more accessible and scalable treatment options for patients.

Interius BioTherapeutics has developed a groundbreaking platform that enables the generation of CAR T-cells directly within the patient's body through a single intravenous infusion. Unlike traditional ex vivo CAR T therapies, which require harvesting, engineering, and reinfusing cells—often accompanied by preconditioning chemotherapy—Interius’s approach involves inserting therapeutic DNA directly into the patient’s genome. This method is designed to deliver long-lasting effects while eliminating several complex steps in the treatment process.

The company’s modular architecture offers flexibility across various diseases and can be scaled efficiently in manufacturing. This scalability could significantly increase access to cell therapies, particularly for patients with rapidly progressing illnesses who may not have time for conventional treatments.

A New Era in Cell Therapy

Cindy Perettie, executive vice president of Kite, emphasized the potential of in vivo therapy to transform patient care. “In vivo therapy is a promising frontier with the potential to transform how we approach treating patients, shifting to more accessible and scalable solutions,” she stated. By combining Interius’s innovative platform with Kite’s extensive expertise in cell therapy research, development, and manufacturing, the company aims to accelerate the delivery of high-quality in vivo therapies to patients.

Following the acquisition, Interius’s staff and operations will be integrated into Kite’s research organization, forming a Philadelphia-based center of excellence focused on next-generation in vivo therapies. This centralized hub is expected to drive innovation and streamline the development of new treatments.

Phil Johnson, president and CEO of Interius BioTherapeutics, highlighted the significance of the deal. “This marks a pivotal step for Interius and the future of in vivo therapy, which has the potential to reduce treatment timelines, broaden access to care and improve outcomes for patients with aggressive or advanced disease,” he said. With Kite’s global infrastructure and deep expertise, Interius is well-positioned to expand into multiple therapeutic areas and deliver meaningful innovations to patients.

Financial Details and Next Steps

Under the terms of the agreement, Kite will acquire all outstanding shares of Interius for $350 million at closing, subject to customary adjustments. Gilead anticipates that the transaction will impact its 2025 GAAP and non-GAAP earnings per share by approximately $0.23 to $0.25. The deal is contingent upon the expiration or termination of the Hart-Scott-Rodino waiting period and other standard closing conditions.

TD Cowen has been appointed as the exclusive financial advisor to Kite, while Evercore is providing advisory services to Interius. This collaboration underscores the confidence both companies have in the future of in vivo therapy and the potential for transformative advancements in cancer treatment.

As Kite and Interius work together to advance their shared vision, the integration of in vivo CAR technology into mainstream cell therapy represents a major leap forward in the fight against serious diseases. This acquisition not only strengthens Kite’s position in the biotech industry but also paves the way for more efficient and effective treatment options for patients worldwide.

Built 5 Websites in Under an Hour Using ChatGPT-5 — Here's How

Exploring the Power of AI in Website Creation

In today’s digital age, building a website has become an essential step for businesses and individuals alike. While there are numerous website-building applications available, many users find them complex or time-consuming. However, with the advent of advanced AI tools like ChatGPT-5, the process has become significantly more accessible. I recently experimented with this AI to see how it would handle creating websites from scratch, and the results were both intriguing and informative.

A Simple Start: “Build a Website for Me”

My first attempt was straightforward—prompting ChatGPT-5 with the simple request: “Build a website for me.” The result was a complete, albeit generic, website. It seemed too good to be true, so I decided to push the boundaries by providing more detailed prompts for different types of businesses.

Case Study 1: Always Sunny Garden Center

For my first real test, I created a prompt for a garden center called "Always Sunny Garden Center." The goal was to design a vibrant, joyful website that reflected the company's friendly and family-owned vibe. The prompt included specific details about layout, color scheme, and navigation. The result was impressive, though it could have used more personalized elements like testimonials or a specific font palette. The code generated by ChatGPT-5 was clean and functional, and the process took about five minutes.

Case Study 2: Tumbles & Giggles Indoor Playground

Next, I tried a prompt for an indoor playground called "Tumbles & Giggles." The focus was on reassuring parents about safety while highlighting the fun aspects of the playground. The site needed to be clear and easy to navigate, with a playful and modern aesthetic. However, the AI did not include images of children, which is crucial for a business targeting families. This highlighted the need for additional prompts if realistic visuals are required.

Case Study 3: The Daily Grind Cafe

For a neighborhood cafe named "The Daily Grind," the prompt emphasized a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The AI struggled initially with generating authentic visuals, but after re-prompting, it improved. However, the site still felt similar to previous ones, indicating that the AI might rely on templates. Including specific requests for photographs helped enhance the visual appeal.

Case Study 4: Tangerine Twist Soda Marketing Site

Finally, I created a marketing website for a soda brand called "Tangerine Twist." The prompt asked for a high-converting landing page with images of young adults enjoying the beverage. Despite the explicit request, the AI failed to include realistic images. However, the product rendering and copywriting were impressive, showcasing the AI's potential in content creation.

What Comes Next After Code Generation?

Once the code is generated, the next steps involve testing the site in a browser to ensure everything functions correctly. If adjustments are needed, users can tweak the code and download it locally. Hosting options vary, with free services like GitHub Pages being ideal for beginners. More advanced users might opt for cloud services like AWS or Google Cloud.

Purchasing a domain name and connecting it to the hosting provider is the final step before launching the site. Many platforms allow for easy uploads through drag-and-drop interfaces or Git integration.

Final Thoughts

ChatGPT-5 proves to be a powerful tool for quickly creating functional websites. While it excels at generating basic layouts and content, achieving more advanced features like realistic images requires additional prompts. For those looking to get their site up and running without extensive coding knowledge, AI tools like ChatGPT-5 offer a viable solution. However, for more customized or complex projects, additional effort and possibly other tools may be necessary.

AI Tech Solutions Target Logistics Sector

Enhancing Your Investment Approach with AI Technology Solutions

Investing in the stock market can be a complex endeavor, but with the right tools and insights, it becomes more manageable. One company that has been making waves in the tech sector is Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions (AITX). Recently, the company has taken steps to expand its influence, particularly within the logistics industry through its subsidiary, RAD. This strategic move highlights AITX’s commitment to innovation and efficiency, offering investors a glimpse into potential future growth.

Strategic Expansion into the Logistics Sector

On August 25, 2025, AITX announced a new focus on the logistics sector via its subsidiary, RAD. This initiative stems from positive feedback received from clients regarding its security solutions, such as ROAMEO Gen 4 and SARA. These technologies are designed to tackle the unique challenges faced by the logistics industry, including security concerns and operational inefficiencies. By implementing these solutions, AITX aims to deliver significant cost savings and enhance overall efficiency for its clients.

RAD's solutions have already been deployed at 75 sites, providing continuous monitoring and incident escalation. This reduces the reliance on costly guard services, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative. The company believes there is substantial growth potential in the logistics market, and with RAD’s autonomous ecosystem, it is well-positioned to gain a competitive edge.

Spark’s Perspective on AITX Stock

According to Spark, an analyst specializing in AI stocks, AITX is currently rated as Neutral. This rating is primarily influenced by the company's poor financial performance and the lack of technical and valuation data available. However, there are positive corporate events that provide some optimism for future growth and potential operational improvements.

While the current outlook may not be overly bullish, investors should consider the long-term implications of AITX's strategic moves. The company's focus on innovation and expansion into the logistics sector could lead to increased market share and improved financial performance over time.

About Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions

Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (AITX) operates through its subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD). RAD specializes in providing AI-driven solutions-as-a-service within the security and guarding services industry. The company offers innovative robotic solutions designed to reduce costs by replacing traditional manned security services with autonomous systems. These solutions cater to various sectors, including enterprises, government, transportation, and healthcare.

Technical Sentiment and Market Insights

From a technical standpoint, the sentiment for AITX is currently leaning towards "Sell." The company's market capitalization stands at $17.38 million, which reflects the current market valuation. Investors interested in deeper insights into AITX's stock performance can explore additional analyses and reports available on the Shiro Copr’ Stock Analysis page.

Staying Informed with Trending Articles

As the investment landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about market trends and developments is crucial. Recent articles highlight several key topics, including a class action lawsuit against Reddit, Inc., and the potential of Nvidia in the tech sector. Additionally, there are updates on iRobot Corporation, further emphasizing the dynamic nature of the stock market.

In conclusion, while AITX presents both challenges and opportunities, the company's strategic initiatives and focus on innovation could position it for future success. Investors should remain vigilant, conduct thorough research, and consider both the short-term and long-term implications of their investment decisions. With the right approach, the potential for growth and profitability remains significant.

Leaked Details Reveal Foldable iPhone's Subtle Crease

The Future of Apple: Folding iPhone Details Emerge

Apple has long been rumored to be working on a foldable smartphone, and recent leaks suggest that the company is closer than ever to bringing this device to market. According to reports from a reliable insider, the folding iPhone could make its debut in September 2026, marking a significant shift in the company’s product lineup.

One of the most notable features of the upcoming foldable device is the inclusion of Touch ID instead of Face ID. While all current iPhones rely on facial recognition technology, Apple is reportedly choosing to use fingerprint scanning for the foldable model. This decision is likely due to the added thickness that Face ID sensors would require, which could compromise the sleek design of the foldable phone. In addition, the device will not have a traditional SIM card slot, as it will only support eSIM technology.

Design and Specifications

The folding iPhone is expected to be remarkably thin when unfolded, with some reports suggesting a thickness of just 4.8 mm. This is slightly thicker than the 4.2 mm of the recently launched Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, but Apple’s focus on minimizing bulk appears to be a key priority. The design will also feature an in-cell touchscreen, which integrates the display and digitizer layers into a single component. This technology is similar to what is currently used in standard iPhones, and it is expected to result in a less visible crease and improved touch accuracy.

In terms of color options, the folding iPhone will reportedly come in black or white, offering users a choice of two classic and modern shades. Another important detail is the inclusion of Apple's own C2 modem chip, which is expected to debut in the iPhone 17. This chip is anticipated to improve efficiency and battery life, making the foldable iPhone more powerful and longer-lasting.

Camera Features and Additional Details

The camera setup on the folding iPhone is also generating interest. According to previous leaks, the device will have four cameras: one on the outer screen, one on the inner screen, and two on the back. The rear cameras are said to be 48MP each, which could offer high-quality photography and video capabilities. There are also rumors that Apple may tweak the camera system to better suit the unique form factor of the foldable device.

Another aspect that has been highlighted in recent reports is the effort Apple is making to ensure the screen crease is as invisible as possible. The company has reportedly spent years refining its foldable display technology, and it seems they are now satisfied with their progress. This focus on a seamless user experience is a strong indicator of Apple’s commitment to delivering a premium foldable device.

A Game-Changer for Apple?

Mark Gurman, a well-known Apple insider at Bloomberg, has described the folding iPhone as a “game changer” for the company. He believes that once users switch to the foldable model, they won’t want to go back to traditional smartphones. This sentiment reflects the potential impact that the device could have on the smartphone market, especially if it delivers on both innovation and usability.

Before the folding iPhone makes its debut, Apple will continue to roll out new models. The iPhone 17 is expected to launch next month, and it will likely feature improvements in performance, design, and camera technology.

As the tech world waits for the release of the folding iPhone, there is growing excitement about what Apple might bring to the table. With its focus on design, performance, and user experience, the foldable iPhone could set a new standard for what a smartphone can be.

Realme Unveils Phone with 15,000mAh Powerhouse Battery

Realme Unveils a New Smartphone with an Extraordinary 15,000mAh Battery

In recent days, Realme has made waves in the smartphone market by launching the Realme P4 Pro, which features a powerful 7,000mAh battery. Now, the brand is set to take things even further by introducing a new device that promises an even more impressive battery capacity. The company recently teased the upcoming phone, hinting at a power cell larger than 10,000mAh. Now, Realme has officially confirmed that the new handset will be equipped with a massive 15,000mAh battery, along with a design that looks promising.

A Battery That Can Last for Days

According to the latest teaser from Realme Global on X (formerly Twitter), the new phone is expected to have a battery capacity of 15,000mAh. Although the initial post mentioned the battery as “1x000mAh,” a closer look at the image reveals the actual figure of 15,000mAh. This is a significant leap in terms of battery size and could potentially change how users think about smartphone longevity.

Realme claims that this massive battery can support up to 50 hours of continuous video streaming. While this number might seem high, it’s not entirely unrealistic given the sheer size of the battery. In addition, the company also stated that the phone could offer up to 18.75 hours of nonstop video recording on a single charge, making it ideal for content creators and heavy users.

A Powerful Battery in a Slim Design

One of the most intriguing aspects of this new device is its design. Unlike many rugged phones that come with oversized batteries and bulky frames, Realme’s new smartphone appears to maintain a slim profile. Based on the leaked images, the phone seems to have a similar thickness to the Realme GT 10,000mAh concept model, which was introduced earlier this year with an 8.5mm frame.

This suggests that Realme is focusing on balancing performance with portability. The company may also be using advanced battery technology, such as an ultra-high silicon-content anode, to ensure that the 15,000mAh battery doesn’t add unnecessary weight or thickness to the device.

What to Expect Next

While the details are still emerging, there are indications that this new smartphone could be another concept model, much like the Realme GT 10,000mAh. However, the company has hinted that more information will be revealed during the Realme Fan Festival event on August 27. This event is expected to provide a clearer picture of what to expect from the new device, including its features, performance, and overall user experience.

As consumers continue to demand longer battery life without compromising on design, Realme’s latest announcement could signal a shift in the smartphone industry. With a 15,000mAh battery, the company is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and it will be interesting to see how this device performs in real-world conditions.