The next camera I buy won't be a camera, but the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses

An individual on a red backdrop wearing Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses touching the arm
(Image credit: Ray-Ban | Meta)

The thought of creating 'content' for social media has always filled me with dread, but in a world where content is king, the time has come to embrace it – and I think I've found the perfect solution (for me)!

The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are not just a stylish accessory, they offer vertical POV video recording without the hassle of strapping a camera to my head or chest. This creative approach allows me to effortlessly record short-form video content for platforms like TikTok and Instagram, showcasing behind-the-scenes footage of my photography process.

POV content is hugely popular on social media because it gives viewers an inside look at how a photographer moves, thinks, and captures their subjects – like experiencing a real-time tutorial. If I’m delving into content creation, this is the exact approach I want to take, sharing my insights while shooting. Providing value to my audience is just as essential as highlighting my work, creating a win-win scenario for everyone involved.

Ray-Ban x Meta Smart Glasses (Image credit: Ray-Ban)

So why the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses over a traditional camera or action camera setup?

One major advantage is their incredible ease of use. A simple double tap on the glasses arm allows me to start recording vertical POV content in 1080p at 30 frames per second instantly. While a higher resolution would be nice, Full HD is more than adequate for short-form content viewed on mobile devices, especially when edited into an exciting video sequence. Plus, since the Ray-Ban Meta Glasses are glasses, I can record hands-free without the worry of being featured on the 'Influencers in the Wild' Instagram page!

This feature resonates with me for two primary reasons. Firstly, I often feel a bit self-conscious walking around with a camera strapped to me or vlogging directly into a camera. By having the camera integrated into the glasses, I can eliminate that awkwardness and focus on what truly matters – capturing engaging content!

Secondly, the main reason the Ray-Ban Meta appeals to me is their ability to document my interactions and instructions while photographing a model during a portrait or fashion shoot, all without putting an intrusive second camera in front of them. This leads to more authentic and genuine interactions, which is essential in my photographic approach – and the same applies to video, making these glasses an ideal tool for me.

It’s also crucial to highlight that, while more discreet than a traditional video camera, these glasses are designed with privacy in mind. A bright LED light on the front indicates when recording, ensuring that users can’t capture footage without people being aware. A safeguard sensor even prevents recording if the light is obstructed (say with tape by a malicious user), maintaining ethical standards.

Starting at $299 / £299, the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are competitively priced, not far from regular Ray-Ban sunglasses. For that investment, I’m getting not only a fashionable accessory but also a camera, speakers, and AI assistance.

Now that Digital Camera World is on TikTok, follow us for valuable insights into all things cameras, drones, and photography!

You Might Like...

Kalum Carter
Staff Writer

Kalum is a professional photographer with over a decade of experience, also working as a photo editor and photography writer. Specializing in photography and art books, Kalum has a keen interest in the stories behind the images and often interviews contemporary photographers to gain insights into their practices. With a deep passion for both contemporary and classic photography, Kalum brings this love of the medium to all aspects of his work.