Marisa Weis on how ZEISS is shaping smartphone photography

ZEISS Consumer Products, one of the leaders in optics for over a century, prepared to expand its strategic focus with the launch of ZEISS Photonics & Optics in 2024. This new unit aims to integrate high-growth segments like cinematography and mobile imaging, solidifying ZEISS’s commitment to innovation across global markets.

In 2020, ZEISS partnered with vivo to establish the Vivo ZEISS Imaging Lab, a joint R&D platform dedicated to advancing smartphone imaging. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the partnership flourished, introducing co-engineered imaging systems and a “Camera First” strategy for Vivo’s flagship smartphones.

At the helm of these initiatives is Marisa Weis, Global Spokesperson and Head of Product and Category Management at ZEISS Photonics & Optics. In her seven years with ZEISS, Weis has played a key role in leveraging the company’s rich legacy to meet the demands of modern mobile imaging. In this exclusive interaction with Adgully, Marisa Weis speaks about ZEISS’s rich history, the strategic partnership with Vivo, groundbreaking innovations that are shaping the future of smartphone photography. With her extensive experience at ZEISS, Weis offers a unique perspective on how the brand is evolving to meet the ever-changing demands of the mobile imaging landscape.

Could you walk us through your journey and explain how ZEISS has maintained its leadership in imaging for over 130 years? How does this rich history influence the technology you bring to mobile imaging today?

My journey with ZEISS started seven years ago at our headquarters in Oberkochen, Germany, where nearly all business units are located. I began in corporate HR and then transitioned to the digital product business unit, focusing on partnerships like those with Vivo and Sony.

ZEISS has been a leader in professional imaging for over 130 years, pioneering technologies in photography, cinematography, and more recently, mobile imaging. For instance, we’ve had over 30 years of experience in photography partnerships, nearly two decades in cinematography, and more than 20 years in mobile imaging.

Our legacy allows us to offer tools that empower users to express their creativity—whether through classical photography equipment like lenses or the evolving medium of smartphone cameras. Today, with smartphones being a universal tool, we bring our expertise to partnerships, offering innovations like optical design, lens technology, and creative imaging styles that cater to modern-day creators.

What was the motivation behind the Vivo-ZEISS global imaging partnership, and how did the global challenges of 2020 shape this collaboration?

Vivo and ZEISS share a similar vision for pushing the boundaries of imaging. From our first interaction, it was evident that our values and goals were aligned.

When we began the partnership in 2020, the global pandemic posed significant challenges. Most of our collaboration happened online, but it quickly became a habit to exchange ideas daily. Despite these challenges, our first product—a co-engineered smartphone camera—was launched in December 2020 for markets like China, South Asia, and India. This partnership has been about leveraging ZEISS’s expertise and Vivo’s vision to deliver an unparalleled imaging experience.

What sets the Vivo-ZEISS collaboration apart from other partnerships in the smartphone imaging space? How does the “Camera First” strategy factor into this?

While I can’t speak for other collaborations, what makes ours unique is the depth of integration and shared ambition. At ZEISS, we bring expertise in optical design and work closely with Vivo’s engineers to push the limits of what smartphone cameras can do.

For example, our collaboration focuses on making cameras thinner and more powerful while ensuring they meet the creative needs of consumers. Our shared vision for innovation and attention to detail allows us to create products that set new benchmarks in smartphone imaging.

Why did ZEISS decide to enter the smartphone imaging market, and what was the driving idea behind this move?

Our motivation has always been to offer tools that help people express their creativity. Smartphones have become the most widely used tools for photography, and we saw an opportunity to bring our expertise to this space.

However, entering the market wasn’t about following trends—it was about creating value. If we couldn’t bring something unique to smartphone imaging, we wouldn’t have entered this field. Our focus has been on integrating high-quality optics and innovative features that truly enhance the user experience.

How does ZEISS integrate feedback and consumer insights into its innovations?

Customer feedback is critical to our innovation process. Through tools like Net Promoter Score (NPS) surveys and direct interactions, we learn what consumers like, dislike, and need.

For instance, we introduced the ZEISS Master Color Display, which ensures that what you see on the screen matches what you capture. This aligns with our mission to develop features that cater to real consumer needs, such as capturing natural colours or improving low-light performance.

What role does sustainability play in ZEISS’s imaging solutions, particularly in mobile imaging?

Sustainability is a core consideration for ZEISS. In every partnership, we evaluate the company’s structure and values to ensure alignment with our sustainability goals. This approach extends to our suppliers and manufacturing processes. We are committed to creating imaging solutions that not only excel technologically but are also environmentally responsible.

What can consumers expect from ZEISS in future collaborations, and what exciting trends do you see shaping the optics and electronics industries in the next decade?

While I can’t disclose specific details, we are selective about our partnerships to ensure mutual value creation. We’ve worked with Sony and Vivo, and we remain open to exploring other areas of consumer electronics.

In terms of trends, I see increasing integration of AI, advancements in optical zoom capabilities, and a focus on compact yet powerful camera modules. At ZEISS, we aim to stay at the forefront of these innovations by bringing our expertise from traditional photography into the mobile space.

Reflecting on your role at ZEISS, what drives your passion for imaging and optics?

For me, it’s about connecting the worlds of professional and everyday photography. At ZEISS, we have a rich legacy in optics, and my role involves bridging this expertise with the evolving needs of consumers.

Understanding different markets—from India to Europe—helps us create products that resonate globally. My passion lies in empowering people to express their creativity, whether they’re professional photographers or smartphone users capturing everyday moments.

Lastly, how does ZEISS plan to continue evolving in response to growing consumer expectations?

Innovation is in our DNA. Our engineers in Germany are constantly exploring ways to overcome challenges like miniaturization, optical zoom, and enhanced image quality.

We aim to stay ahead by understanding consumer trends, such as the need for lightweight, high-quality cameras, and by integrating feedback into our designs. Our goal is to remain the best in class, offering tools that inspire creativity and set new standards in imaging.