←back to thread

361 points Tomte | 1 comments | | HN request time: 0.227s | source
Show context
kookamamie ◴[] No.43609045[source]
DSLRs have just dropped off the wagon a long time ago, when it comes to software and especially meaningful UX innovation.

As an anecdote, I have a Sony a7r and operating it via its mobile app is one of the worst user experiences I have had in a while.

Same goes to the surrounding ecosystem of software. E.g. Adobe's Lightroom is full of obsolete paradigms and weird usability choises.

replies(5): >>43609098 #>>43609221 #>>43609343 #>>43609666 #>>43609677 #
wongarsu ◴[] No.43609221[source]
Most hardware companies are just terrible at software in general. Camera makers are pretty average in that regard.

Usability of the camera hardware and software ecosystem is another matter. I think the common wisdom is that most paying users don't want beginner-friendly, they want powerful and familiar. So everything emulates the paradigms of what came before. DSLRs try to provide an interface that would be familiar to someone used to a 50 year old SLR camera, and Lightroom tries to emulate a physical darkroom. Being somewhat hostile to the uninitiated might even be seen as a feature.

replies(2): >>43609691 #>>43610405 #
1. numpad0 ◴[] No.43610405[source]
It's also like 4 digital dials. And you can leave most to Auto until you realize each specific dial enables something you desire. Sony tried "non-scary automagic" approach, and have instantly gone back to dials.

There's also Sigma BF if that's what you want; Sigma actually do pretty good job from perspective of minimalistic, idealistic, on-point, field usable UI, though the return of that effort just isn't worthwhile. I have the OG DP1, it feels natural as IntelliMouse PS/2. I've tried dp2 Quattro once and it felt natural as any serious right-handed trackballs. They scratch so many of camera nerds' itching points.

Most people just buys an A7M4 and an 24-70 Zeiss. And then they stupidly leave it all to auto and never touches the dials. And it puts smiles on people's faces 80% of times. And that's okay. No?