lomo

Lomo is a term with several distinct meanings in different contexts. In Spanish, lomo denotes the loin or tenderloin of meat and is used in a variety of dishes, including lomo saltado, a popular Peruvian stir-fry.

In photography and popular culture, Lomo refers to the LOMO brand of cameras produced by the Leningrad Optical Mechanical Association. The most famous model is the LOMO LC-A. The use of these inexpensive, compact cameras helped give rise to the Lomography movement, which promotes experimental, spontaneous photography using analog film and simple gear. Aesthetics associated with Lomography often include high contrast, vivid color saturation, strong vignetting, soft focus, and unpredictable light leaks, contributing to a distinctive lo-fi look.

The Lomography movement has grown beyond individual cameras into a global community and brand that sells cameras, film, and accessories, and that supports exhibitions, publications, and online sharing of analog photography. Supporters emphasize creative exploration, casual picture-taking, and the enjoyment of imperfect or unconventional results.

Beyond these primary senses, lomo can appear in other contexts as a place name or brand element in Spanish-speaking regions, where it generally retains its culinary or descriptive associations.