The new viu.

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 thread mount in front is 39mm.

The shutter speed dial has an auto shutter speed mode (A), as well as exposure compensation (±1-2), in addition to shutter speeds and a bulb-mode (B). You can change the ISO by lifting and turning the dial, and a latch in the dial shows the current value.

I will try to sinter out a model on a rapid prototyping machine the coming week, if I have the time and money to do so. Time will show.

Click image to open a high-res version of this image.

Viu | mockup#4. Click image to open a high-res version of this image.

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 is flush with the cylindrical grip, to afford more possibilites in turning the dial. You could use your thumb from the back, or any finger from the front, or pinch it between thumb and index finger.

I’ve also combined the viewfinder and the rf-line window into one opening, and added rubber grips at the front, and for the thumb at the back. The lens is now a tad shorter (physically) and wider, and I’ve streamlined it more.

The new and more compact mockup of the viu. Click post header to see more renderings.

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 115×70x25 mm. As you will notice I’ve also added a hot shoe, a screen with navigation buttons, vertical mounted strap hinges, and – as some of you recommended – I’ve reduced the rangefinder base.

The next step will be to reduce the size of the lens, and maybe further improve the shutter-dial placement. I’m considering using a 4/3 sensor to reduce the size of the lens. I’ve decided not to have a separate iso-dial, but rather have it inside the shutter dial, like on the Epson rd1 (where you lift the wheel before rotating to change the iso). This is because I’ve found that people don’t change the iso very often, but it’s very important to have a visual reminder of which iso you’re using at all times.

Numbers on dials and symbols/text on buttons will of course also be added (but that’s one heck of a job …)

Click image to open a high-res version of this image in a new window.

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

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.)

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.