Outcome

PROBLEM STATEMENT

What's the deal?

Cameras with the same specs can produce very different results. The numbers alone don't tell the full story. While specs like megapixels and sensor size matter, other factors like sensor design, image processing, lens quality, and manufacturing variations play a huge role in determining a camera's real-world image quality, color, low-light performance, and overall rendering. This gap between specs and actual output makes it tough for photographers to judge cameras based only on the specs on paper.

Seeing is believing - these real-world samples let you understand each camera's unique capabilities beyond the numbers. New (and old) camera enthusiasts often struggle to find these sample photos of cameras they're interested in and don’t have access to view the settings of sample photos they do find. This lack of information limits their ability to maximize their camera's potential and make a fully informed purchasing decision when getting a new camera.

Hypothesis

I approached the research with four hypotheses derived from personal experiences and from observing people on the internet and questions they ask. One instance I noticed was, on every Tiktok, when users posted pictures taken with a camera there were always people asking the name of the camera and the settings they have it on, always. And thus, these 3 hypotheses were born:

1

Photographers, regardless of their skill level, have a strong desire to understand the technical details behind visually appealing photographs, including the camera model, lens, and settings.

2

Being able to see real sample photos from different cameras, with their settings, would be really useful for learning about and choosing new camera.

3

Photographers are more likely to engage with an app that highlights the camera model and settings for each photo, making it easier to find content relevant to their gear and interests.

Discovery

To validate these hypotheses, I conducted a survey with 25 photography enthusiasts, exploring their decision-making processes, challenges faced, and desired solutions as gaining an in-depth understanding of the users was crucial. This involved understanding their decision-making process when considering a camera purchase: Do they primarily seek sample photos or focus on specifications? Were there challenges in finding these sample photos of cameras they were interested in, and if so, what were these challenges? How did they attempt to resolve these issues, and were these solutions successful?

I conducted a survey on 25 people virtually using Google Forms. I then went on to organize these findings into themes to extract essential information. Here’s what I learnt:

Jobs To Be Done (JTBD)

Next, I tried to understand the users goal and tunnel vision on it using the jobs to be done framework

When: I'm learning about photography

I want: To see examples of photos taken with different settings

So I can: Observe how settings (such as aperture, shutter speed etc.) can affect the final image

When: I am researching to purchase a new camera

I want: To explore a feed of visually stunning photographs with clear identification of the camera model & settings used

So I can: Evaluate the real-world output and capabilities of different cameras to make an informed buying decision

When: I am struggling to capture a particular type of shot (e.g., low-light, action, portraits)

I want: To find examples of exceptional photographs in that specific genre, along with the camera settings used

So I can: Learn the techniques and settings required to achieve similar results with my own camera

When: I have captured a photograph that I'm particularly proud of

I want: To share my work with a community of like-minded individuals and receive constructive feedback

So I can: Improve my skills, gain recognition, and potentially inspire others with my photography

Onboarding

The initial onboarding screen features a high-quality image taken by an existing user, reinforcing the platform's community-driven nature.

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The onboarding process itself is designed to be short and frictionless, requiring only essential information; name, phone number, and a username.

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After providing these details, users are prompted to select at least five images that align with their interests. This helps us curate a personalized home feed upon login,

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Photo Details

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Search

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Posting a Photo

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Photos without an Extractable EXIF

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Some other Screens

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