Why I prefer the LCD screen to the viewfinder

Every photographer has their own unique approach and preferences when it comes to capturing the perfect shot.

One aspect that often sparks debate among photographers is whether to use a viewfinder or an LCD screen to compose. I recently had a discussion with some photographers about this. It was based on one of my previous newsletters in which I wrote a love letter to my Ricoh GRII.

As an avid photographer and owner of the Ricoh GRII, you may have guessed by now that I prefer the LCD screen to the viewfinder. It hasn't always been this way. I used to prefer the viewfinder. That was because I had to choose between my DSLR and my phone, and with those the choice is not that hard. Although I shoot a lot with my phone and enjoy it, it just doesn't feel like a camera. Let's not talk about what photography is and what it isn't. Framing a shot on my phone is just not for me.

Photo: JohnWebster via Unsplash

When I got my Ricoh GRII, a small compact camera that shoots RAW and is widely considered to be one of the best cameras for street photography, I started to appreciate the LCD screen for composing the shot. Of course, as you get more experienced in photography over the years, it helps to know what you want to catch.

The frame in my head

One of the main reasons I choose the LCD screen on my Ricoh GRII is that, as a photographer, I often have a clear vision of the composition I want to capture. The LCD screen provides instant visual confirmation of the frame I have in mind. By using the screen, I can precisely align the elements within the frame and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the final image matches my creative intent.

Being left-eyed

Another important reason for preferring the LCD screen is the fact that I'm left-eyed. Being left-eyed presents a unique challenge when using a DSLR viewfinder. In my case, using a viewfinder often means that my nose touches the screen, causing unwanted smudges and distractions. This can be frustrating and hinder the creative process. By using the LCD screen, I get around this obstacle and maintain a clean and clear view of the scene without any interruptions.

Quick test: Are you right or left eyed?

Most photographers are probably right-eyed, as most people are. This means that your dominant eye is the right one. If you are not sure which is your dominant eye, try this little test:

Point at an object a few metres away. This could be a tree or a vase across the room. Now close your left eye. Open it and close your right eye. You will see that in one case your finger is pointing exactly at the object and in the other it is not.

The eye that is still pointing at the object is your dominant eye.

What about you?

We all have our personal preferences when it comes to shooting. You may prefer to use a viewfinder so you're not distracted by what's happening outside your frame, or you may want to see everything that's happening so you can compose the right elements in your frame. For me, as a proud Ricoh GRII owner, the decision to use the LCD screen instead of the viewfinder has greatly added to my creative freedom and the overall enjoyment of my photographic journey. With the image already in my mind and the ability to avoid uncomfortable nose-to-screen encounters, I am able to focus more on composition and achieve the visual results I want.

What is your favourite way of shooting and why?

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‘If you want to be a better photographer, stand in front of more interesting stuff.'
– Jim Richardson

This quote is part of my E-book Unleash Creativity - 109 Inspiring Photography Quotes. You can support Darkrooms by buying this E-book. It’s even cheaper than a cup of coffee…

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That’s it for this week

Till next time,

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