Source: https://buraktahapeksen.com/writing/designing-a-camera/

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Building

# Designing a camera that gets out of your way

By [Burak Taha Pekşen](https://buraktahapeksen.com/about/) 2 min read

GestureCam began when I noticed that the iPhone camera lacked a palm-triggered shooting option I knew from Android. I wanted that option on iOS, so I built it.

## An option I missed on iOS

GestureCam started when I noticed that the iPhone camera did not offer a shooting option I knew from Android: raising a hand to trigger a photo. It was a small interaction, but one I wanted to have on iOS.

That was the reason I made the app. I wanted to set the phone down, step into the frame, and signal when I was ready, without going back to press the shutter.

The interesting part of a camera is usually on the other side of it: a place you want to remember, a group of friends, an ordinary afternoon that feels worth keeping.

GestureCam starts with a simple idea. What if taking a picture needed a little less reaching, and gave you a little more freedom to be in it?

## Small interactions matter

A small interaction can change how an entire app feels. A control that is easy to find, feedback that makes sense, and a clear next step all help a tool fade into the background.

With a camera, that balance is especially interesting. The interface needs to be present when you need it, while leaving room for the scene itself.

> Good tools leave room for the moment.

## Keep asking the simple questions

Is this clear? Does this extra control help? Could the same thing feel more natural? Those are useful questions to return to as an idea takes shape.

That is the direction behind GestureCam: thoughtful little interactions in service of something bigger than the interface. More of the moment, less of the tool.

[iPhone & iPad app GestureCam Take hands-free photos with a palm gesture. Explore app](https://buraktahapeksen.com/apps/gesturecam/) [Download GestureCam on the App Store](https://apps.apple.com/app/gesturecam-hands-free-photos/id6753905834?pt=127701861&ct=web-gc-camera-story&mt=8)

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