BACKGROUND
The intention of this project was to design and create a high-end camera marketed to professionals in the outdoor industry. Think Jimmy Chin or Chris Burkhard. In order to be successful, this camera needs to shoot images of exceptional quality, while also featuring full manual controls, interchangeable lenses, full weatherproofing, and impact protection. Additionally, it should feature built in mechanical stabilization and adhere to the strict aesthetic guidelines demonstrated by Arc'teryx's diverse product line.
Arc’teryx has been synonymous with quality since it’s inception in 1989. To quote the brand’s own literature, “Arc’teryx is built on the principle of obsessive, precise design and production”.
Founded by Vancouver-area climbers, the brand is widely regarded as the premier manufacturer of hard and soft goods for mountaineers, skiers, climbers, and hikers alike. For this reason, Arc’teryx has historically been able to select a cadre of world class athletes to represent its brand, cementing its reputation of excellence.
This prestigous standing allows the company to charge a premium for its product offerings, of which it allocates a significant portion to state-of-the-art research and engineering to ensure their products are consistently on the cutting edge.
In addition, Arc’teryx controls almost every aspect of the design process, including final manufacturing. This way, they can assure a certain high level of quality in every product they produce.
Currently, Arc’teryx supports a team of 22 skiers, 2 snowboarders, 3 ultrarunners, 32 climbers, and interestingly enough, 8 photographers. Although they may not recieve as much recognition as other athletes on the team, the photographers at Arc’teryx are arguably the company’s most valuable asset. Often just as accoplished in mountaineering as photography, these athletes are responsible for capturing images in the harshest conditions and most remote locales.
When Arc’teryx team photographer Paul Bride spends 21 hours straight shooting a record setting traverse through Torres Del Paine National Park in sub-freezing temperatures, he wants to be able to rely on his gear. However, this is often not the case, and traditional cameras freeze up, run out of battery, or get battered against the harsh rock and ice of a given locale.
Arc’teryx, with their emphasis on design for function and performance, should leverage their resources to create the ultimate adventure camera.
The Arc'teryx CM-4109 will best meet the needs of the user who:
- is serious about landscape photography, especially in the context of "action sports"
- is in the market for a mid-level to premium-level camera that can handle the rigors of extreme outdoor photography
- is an athlete or photographer hoping to improve their standing on both social media and video sites
- likes the idea of a Go-Pro but wants something that produces higher quality images and footage
- is looking for a camera that features auto image stabilization for times when shooting positions are less than stable (see above)
- is young and active; focused on dynamic, immersive photography
Any product designed by Arc'teryx, especially a camera, should adhere to the following principles:
EXTREME DURABILITY
- when you buy an Arc'teryx product, it should be built to last, no matter the trials it's put through
CLEAN, INTUITIVE DESIGN
- the design should be aesthetically pleasing, but simple. all gear should be extremely intuitive, regardless of experience level
OBSESSIVE ENGINEERING
- all our products should be made out of the most advanced materials using the latest technology. your Arc'teryx gear should always feel years ahead of the competition
IDEATION
FINAL IMAGES
