Three books have recently been published by Phaidron - encompassing 999 great gadget designs in history (Pioneers, Mass Production, and New Technologies). One of my favorite designs on their list is the early 1910's prototype camera for what is assumed to be the early Lecia 1 in the 1920's.
When I saw this image, my first thought... beautiful. I don't know what it is about classic technologies like this, but then again maybe this is why 'steampunk' design has grown so popular as technology ever-evolves.
The most amazing thing about this image... is how similar cameras still look! Take a picture of a really old computer for instance, and it filled an entire room, or more. But a camera... just about the same. As I had referenced in a post earlier, camera design was largely defined by the need for film. Yet now with this advent of digital sensors a question about whether this design will will finally... after nearly a century... finally pass.
A part of me insists that technology must continually evolve, to be more efficient. But a small part of me wishes we could remember the past - and not just through "retro" redesigns meant to be trendy. Don't get me wrong, technology has allowed for some incredible opportunities in digital design.
I remember only 5 years ago, while in a group photo for one of my scholarship, the photographer made the comment, "It's crazy we can see what we took instantly now. Sure makes my life a whole lot easier." It's astonishing really. In just 5 short years we've gone from the relatively new technology of DSLR LCD's and live-view, to it being nothing more than just an expectation. Heck, even some manufacturers are attempting to completely nix buttons alltogether! (as I referenced a couple posts back).
Ultimately, technology will evolve, as it always does. Some designs we should trash, yet we should never forget those original designs, and likewise their purpose.
New DSLR's designed as if they were film cameras honestly doesn't make a whole lot of sense. But initial designs, designed as they meant - make them great - as the need was met in a manner necessary.
We must always keep purpose in mind when making new designs. Looking at some of these classic designs is a wonderful way to remind ourselves of where innovation takes place. Not with continual redesigns and adaptations of older products, but instead a truly original piece.
No comments:
Post a Comment