Is the PEN-f the Nikon Df of our format?

Martin Ocando wrote:

I mean, old cameras had a control layout design that worked for decades. Things have changed a bit, with the addition of different features and video, the cameras are no longer a dark box, but I truly believe that the controls for basic features like the exposure triangle should be on separate dials.

True but I think they were also limited in how they could implement the controls, anyway.  With the advent of autofocus and electronic contacts in lenses, that's when the notion of being able to control the aperture from the camera body became possible (I think!).  And that's when those controls could also be turned off and, nowadays, re-programmed, as well.

In regards to the control layout of my LX100, it's easy to bump the controls and accidentally change the shutter speed / aperture / exp comp even when the camera is off.  I'd much prefer to limit the function of those dials to when the camera is actually powered on.

But I do agree that separate dials (but perhaps not dictated by the manufacturer) should be available for each of the exposure triangle factors.  Although two dials has worked quite well for me (but I don't use manual exposure that much and I understand that some people like to be able to quickly change the ISO or exp. comp. while using manual mode).

The E-M1, and E-M5 Mark II have the best of both worlds, by flipping the switch.

Yes, I'm fine with the E cameras' implementation of their controls.  Likewise with my Panasonic micro four thirds cameras (GH2 and GX7).

Nikon tried to do the same with the Df, but I think they somewhat failed with a confusing layout and duplicated functionality, or so I read in a review a while ago.

They also went all in on the dedicated dials, including putting the exp. comp. and ISO dials on the top-left deck of the camera which is a very poor location as far as ergonomics and fast-handling are concerned.  Obviously it was done in service of style since it was completely different from what they already knew what worked well for actual professional photographers and their DSLRs.

The Fujis have a very consistent and intuitive control layout, and I feel the PEN-f is aimed at that.

If it's aimed at dedicated dials (ie: labeled ISO values, labeled shutter speeds) with one of more of them on the top left deck, and not being able to be reached by the right hand, then I definitely hope they avoid that.  IMO it's a slower way of operating the camera.  I don't advocate one-handed use but I do find that having the three major exp. controls available to my right hand is an easier way of working FOR ME, because my left hand is used to cradle either the bottom of the camera or the lens.

Fortunately, they don't appear to be headed in that direction with the OMD series, and Panasonic doesn't look like it's going down that route, either.  So YAY for choice.