Nau, don't you think your being a bit harsh on a prototype, but I agree they could've at least gotten a pretty model :) It'll be sometime before they get the bugs and image quality worked out, but I think the idea is very fascinating. It could, for example, work very well with small point and shoot models that are known for their harsh flash lighting.

Looks a lot like the "nightshot" mode on the Sony H50 camera. Using a Infrared flash would not do you any good unless your camera was converted to Infrared mode, but the colors are newer real. Infrared is a fun way to shot, It would actually be fun to have a converted camera to play with. I don't think you would ever see this for sale, because if you were to use it in daytime with the right filters attached, then suddenly the camera can see true some lighter clothing. Actually for that reason on Sony video and still cameras with this feature they will not shot in daytime with this feature activated

Pete

Looks interesting... nice idea.. would need some interesting electronics ...

hm.... maybe its just crap examples but I didnt see anything that would make me want it

Interesting post on the development of a camera that uses "Dark Flash" to avoid harsh flash lighting. It uses an "invisible" flash to illuminate the subject.

Flip through the gallery to read and see examples of how it's done.

http://www.newscientist.com/gallery/dn17468-dark-flash-photography/1