Olloclip has released two new lens kits which are compatible with both the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, the Macro 3-in-1 Lens ($70) and Telephoto + CPL Lens ($100). The Macro 3-in-1 Lens offers three separate lenses with different levels of magnification — 7x, 14x, and 21x. The Telephoto + CPL Lens has a 2x telephoto lens and a circular polarizing lens. As in the case of Olloclip’s 4-in-1 Photo Lens for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, both of these lenses can fit over both the back camera and FaceTime camera on either iPhone. Both lenses come with their share of accessories, including wearable pendants and hoods for the Macro lens.
The design of both new lens kits is just like Olloclip’s 4-in-1 Photo Lens — the lens clip is slipped on top of an uncased iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus. On an iPhone 6, both lenses will match up with the back and FaceTime cameras at the same time, but on the larger iPhone 6 Plus, you’ll need to give the lenses a slight nudge when switching between cameras.
Small plastic inserts are included to fit the iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus. It’s not the most elegant solution, but it does the trick.
The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus cameras still struggle with close-up shots, making the idea of a macro lens a useful proposition for some iPhone photographers. With three different magnification options, Olloclip’s Macro 3-in-1 Lens makes it likely that average users will be able to find a way to get the shot they want through tinkering with the lens options and getting closer to the subject. Below, from left to right, are shots of an elephant figurine. First is a shot with the regular iPhone 6 Plus, followed by the 7x lens, 14x lens, and 21x lens.
As one might expect, photo distortion gets tougher to deal with as the magnification gets stronger. Pictured below is a dog’s nose at 21x magnification.
It can be tough to get enough of the picture in focus at this magnification — it helps to have a steady hand, or a tripod — but the results can be fascinating.
The value can be a bit harder to see in the more expensive Telephoto + CPL Lens. Olloclip’s 2x telephoto lens isn’t as powerful as the 3x option found in the competing ExoLens system, but it will likely be enough for users who just want a closer view, especially in landscape photos. Of course, there will be some distortion on the edges of the photo.
Most users will find the CPL lens has a more subtle effect, but to be sure, there is a difference, as the lens can change contrast and reduce reflections. The lens turns, allowing for a change in the enhancement of a photo — it can be seen more obviously when looking at a reflective surface. Below are three more comparison shots: first is the regular iPhone 6 Plus camera. After that comes a shot with the CPL lens taken seconds earlier, then a shot with the telephoto lens.
One more telephoto shot shows distortion around the edges of the photo.
