Heliographe

Project Overview

Heliographe is a photography software project primarily developed for Apple platforms, with the creator focusing on building useful, focused tools inspired by the UNIX philosophy. Currently a side project, the software generates revenue through the App Store and includes applications like Trichromy, which is inspired by the historical trichromatic photographic process pioneered by Prokudin-Gorsky.

Technical Approach

The creator emphasizes creating tools that solve personal needs first, resulting in well-designed, single-purpose applications. Notably, the apps feature a “Data Not Collected” privacy designation, suggesting a privacy-conscious development approach. The Trichromy app, for instance, intentionally explores technological limitations that were once considered flaws but are now appreciated for their aesthetic value.

Business and Personal Context

Currently a Japanese language school student in Japan, the creator moved from the San Francisco tech ecosystem at age 34. The software projects are being developed as side ventures, with hopes of potentially transitioning to full-time work after completing language school in 2026. The creator has already incorporated the business to maintain organizational structure as app revenue gradually increases.

Community Reception

The Hacker News community responded positively, appreciating the focused nature of the apps and the thoughtful design. Users specifically noted the privacy features and the creative approach to photographic technology, with one user highlighting the connection to historical photographic techniques.