simply photography.
Viu is a compact no-nonsense digital rangefinder-camera, which enables the photographer to reclaim creative control.
Viu captures what you see: The camera doesn't take pictures. You do.
«Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler»
Albert Einstein
Click the image below to see a large image of the last, and hopefully final version of the viu – the no-nonsense digital compact.
The lens is a 7-elements 28mm F 1:2 (equivalent to 42mm on regular film). It has a mechanical aperture ring, and an easy to operate-focus lever with distance markings in meters. The [...]
In the newest mockup of the viu, I’ve changed the form so that only the side you hold in your right hand is cylindrical. Since the viu is manual focus only, the user will hold his or hers left hand on the lens anyway, so there’s no need for a grip on that side.
The shutter/ev/iso-dial [...]
In the latest mockup of the viu, I’ve made it considerably more compact. (click the header of this post to see more renderings, and then click the image to watch it in large size.)
The viu now measures 115×70×25 mm. As you will notice I’ve also added a hot shoe, a screen with navigation buttons, vertical [...]
«A camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera»
Dorothea Lange
A mockup of the viu. Details will be added later.
I’ve made a new model of the viu based on the feedback I got. Currently the shutter release is placed on top of the shutter dial, but that may be subject to change. To your right is the ISO-wheel. The model will be updated with numbers and details. You’re very welcome to comment on useabilty, features as well as aestethics.
An early mockup of the viu.
In just a few days I’ve gotten more valuable feedback on this site and at rangefinderforum than I would ever hope for. Big thanks to everyone who contributed.
First of all, since there seems to be some confusion on that point, I need to point out what kind of project this is. The viu is a concept camera, not aimed for production, but meant as an inspiration to camera manufacturers. I’m aiming to design a camera which I think many people, including myself, would want and need, one that would fill a void in today’s camera market.
Based on all of your feedback I’m starting modelling a mockup in the 3D-software Solidworks today. Hopefully I will have some crude renderings by tonight or tomorrow. I’ve decided on some factors:
1) The lens will be fixed, with a focal length the same as the sensor, which will make it a 42mm equivalent.
2) The camera will be a manual focus only, to avoid compromises on the viewfinder and the manual focusing abilities, and to reduce the amount of fragile and expensive electronics in the camera. I also think that this, even though it will scare some people away, will strengthen the concept as a no-nonsense minimalist approach to photography.
3) The camera will be larger and heavier than most compacts, but smaller and lighter than slr’s. The body will probably be made of a metal alloy (not decided which one yet), with a good grip vulcanite covering.
4) The grip will have to be tested by real photographers with different habits and hands. There might not be a need for much, because of the substantial friction of the vulcanite covering.
5) The form factor will indeed be kind of retro, to the core functional, and the color will be black. This is a camera for users, not collectors.
Again, thanks so much for your help, and please continue providing feedback. Everything’s of interest.
Cheers,
Henrik
I’m unsure about the ideal focal length on the lens. Since the viu is supposed to have a fixed lens, it needs to be versatile. Myself, I only use a 35 summicron on the Leica M8, equaling 45mm on film, and I’m very content with using only that focal length.
Still, I know many photogs want something a bit wider for their everyday shooting. Currently I’m thinking a 28mm, which will equal 42mm on 35mm film. Mike Johnston writes about the benefits of a 40mm focal length at luminious landscape. I’m asking your help here: should I go with a 40mm equiv., or go wider? How fast must the lens be? Is f2 sufficient, or should i be f1.7?
All comments are greatly appreciated. (There’s some delay when commenting, as I have to approve the first post from any poster, but your following comments will slide right in.)
Here you can provide feedback of any kind. I’m dependant on feedback from both experienced photographers and amateurs, so don’t be shy. Thanks!
Grip-mockups in modelling clay and PUR. The modelling clay is great for making these kind of mockups – I heat it, make people hold it like it would be a camera, and their hands make indents the right places.
One of the biggest challenges in designing the viu seems to be getting the ergonomics right. Aesthetically I want the camera body to be as slim as possible, without any protruding grips. Still, I realize there might be a need for at least a thumb-grip. The grip has to play well with the shutter dial and the shutter release, as they have to be located pretty close due to little space on the camera top. I’m currently investigating this by making mockups in modeling clay and pur.
All comments regarding grip and the placement of shutter-dial and -release are most welcome.