How about creating a digital camera with no rear screen? Pretty waste (part II):
The term ‘pre-visualization’ was almost normal vocabulary for thinking photographers, and often practiced in principle by those who hadn’t even heard of it. As Leica’s viewfinders never black out during an exposure, you must be able to see exactly what happened at the moment the shutter tripped, so in theory you don’t need to have to check the screen to see if you catch it. It is only DSLRs that will leave you in the dark for an instant, while you can still hope the decisive moment might occur on the other side of the mirror. When the lens barrel isn’t blocking part of the view, Leica M cameras offer the clearest impression of what is being captured.
But the question that lies here is that if it was worth managing fine before? The Leica M Edition 60 also only shoots in raw mode, so menu systems for white balance and picture controls – such as contrast, color tints and dramatic filters – would be somewhat superfluous in any case. The only controlling systems you can use on a regular basis are aperture, exposure compensation and ISO settings. This stainless steel contra-common-sense freak actually caters for each of those in easily accessible form, even if it means reverting to completely manual exposure control. It will be better if you will tend to open the aperture wide, and leave it there, adjusting shutter speeds to suit the occasion.
Specially, this method of working is ideal for every type of shoot that you are willing to do, but then neither is Leica cameras in general. Technological progress exists for a good reason – to make life more convenient – and in many situations the advantage a rear screen gives us is invaluable for techniques that involve risk and complex set-ups that require trial and error. However, having no screen would suit any casual photography rather well. In order to get less distracted by the camera, you’d have to divert your mind in concentrating on what is happening in front of you. Remind yourself about the moment when the luxuries of modern devices are stripped away would benefit your head with no end. However, there are still doubts on how long the battery will last long without your fawning over the screen every two minutes.
All in all, this is the budget version of the camera which one can easily enjoy. There is no need to anticipate many other camera brands following Leica’s lead on this front, though many individual engineers might admire the company’s philosophy and spirit. With some certainty at this point, one of these £12,000 cameras might not find its way into your possession. It is a must to glance backwards to see how yesterday’s methods can radicalize the way you work today. However, trying it for a day or two will be an experience you will be grateful for and maybe you can learn a thing or two.
