Outward, Inc. announces that 170 retailers and manufacturers have signed up for its Aperture Platform, the world’s first and only real-time automated photography system that utilizes modern artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision to enable a self-driven, autonomous system that replaces traditional methods of product photography.
Two of the West Coast retailers already utilizing the technology are Hoot Judkins Furniture, the Bay Area’s largest wood furniture store, and Giorgi Bros., a full-service furniture showroom in the Bay area, with more going live with every week that passes. The technology has also attracted the likes of furniture manufacturers like Whalen Furniture, which produces high-quality furniture for homes and offices in San Diego, Calif., as well as Sagebrook Home in Commerce, Calif., which specializes in decorative accessories, wall décor, furniture, lighting, and home textiles.
“The Aperture Platform has been gaining traction in all areas of the country since it was launched last fall,” says Gaurav Sethi, co-founder of Outward, Inc. “The fact that the queue is already this big speaks to how much Aperture is resonating and how unique this platform really is. For the first time, retailers and manufacturers are finding they can take control of their own imagery in ways that were not possible before.”
Equipped with a cutting-edge, robotic camera system, sensors, LED lighting and a computer workstation, Aperture features Outward’s proprietary Capture Rig and Content Manager web application. With a 400-square-foot footprint, the comprehensive unit utilizes automatic masking, with AI-based intuitive shadow and lighting tools to help create the perfect shot, time after time, without the hassle of traditional photoshoots and time-consuming post-production workflows, and without any compromise in creative flexibility.
“This is your own 21st century automated photo studio. No more schedules to coordinate, or high-priced studio time,” Sethi says. “There is no other photography platform on the market that combines software and hardware like this to create an on-demand solution.”
Users can immediately upload professional-quality photos to any channel — from e-commerce websites to traditional print publications.
“The Aperture Platform is ideal for furniture manufacturers and retailers who are looking to showcase their products in a variety of environments,” said Sethi. “We’ve received great feedback from our current customers, which is helping us in developing additional templates to encompass all kinds of desirable environments.”
When someone purchases the platform, Outward sends professionals from their team to install the system and train employees on usage and maintenance. There is a one-time setup and training fee, plus a monthly subscription fee.
After the installation and training session is provided by Outward, their customer success team remains available around the clock to provide any support customers may need, further positioning them as a leader in innovative product photography solutions.
“A queue this large only a year after we launched Aperture speaks to how much this is resonating with furniture manufacturers and retailers,” Sethi says. “The engagement also shows how unique this first and only automated photography system is.”
