Write up:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_CdL8ry7Ui9P93sPGnrUqcnKOfDBZO3K0x8xZ6bkzgI/edit?tab=t.0

Inspiration

In a world overwhelmed by digital photos, we were looking for something slower, more intentional — a way to not just take photos, but truly remember the moments. Inspired by the tactile rituals of film photography and emotional storytelling, we created a space where each image has meaning and memory.

What it does

SouviNEAR is a mindful photography app that blends analog-inspired constraints with modern emotional depth. Users can take a limited number of 10 photos per day, leave voice memos attached to each moment, and wait for their images to “develop” in a virtual darkroom filled with hands on interactions. Once revealed, the app uses AI to generate a memory summary, turning each album into a time capsule.

How we built it

We designed and prototyped the full user flow in Figma, focusing on tactile UI elements like a Polaroid reveal animation, and a darkroom aesthetic.

Challenges we ran into

Simulating “tangible” processes in a flat digital space Collaborating with a team of 4 with time difference

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Creating a darkroom-inspired reveal flow that feels poetic and purposeful Designing an interaction model that slows users down (on purpose!)

What we learned

Figma Animations!

What's next for SouviNEAR

Expanding our AI to detect emotional tone in voice memos Making development rituals more playful (e.g. “burn a photo to let it go”) Refine the darkroom interactions

Built With

• figma