An optical receiver having a photodetector, amplifier, feedback loop, and output circuit is disclosed. The photodetector generates a current between first and second nodes in response to being illuminated with light. The amplifier has an input connected to the first node and an output connected to a third node. The feedback path connects the third node to the first node, and includes a diode in series with a circuit element having an impedance greater than a predetermined value, the diode is connected between the first and fourth nodes. The output circuit is connected to the fourth node and provides an output signal to an external circuit. The output circuit can be configured to provide an output signal that is proportional to the logarithm of the intensity of the light that illuminates the photodetector.