MacBook Pro Review Q&A (Haters Unite!)
I had a lot of questions and comments from the MacBook Pro review I posted last week, so I thought I’d address a few of them of them here.
Q. Why don’t you just use a mouse?
A. The reason I have a MacBook Pro at all, is because of travel (as I said in the review; I have a MacPro at home, which is my main machine for doing photography, retouching, and editing). You can’t easily use a mouse on a plane, or in a taxi, or in the airport, or in all the places I bought a MacBook Pro for in the first place, like where I’m sitting writing this right now, where my “laptop” is in my lap.
Q. How can anyone seriously use Photoshop with a trackpad?
A. I’ve been doing it for years now, and while I’m not a trackpad fan to begin with, I was starting to get Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and was having to sleep with arm braces on all night, and take other measures. When I stopped using the mouse, and only used the trackpad or a Wacom tablet, it all went away, and I haven’t had a problem since.
Q. While I feel I should be the last person to give you advice about color correction, here goes: if you are relying on your screen to determine how your prints will look, you’re doing it wrong.
A. When I send prints to a printing press, I go by the numbers. When my output is the Epson on my desk, or to a photo lab, I go by my screen. That’s why they make hardware calibration devices in the first place.
Q. A number of people posted really nasty comments about your review, including a number that include swearing at you, racial slurs, calling you stupid, a loser, and much worse. This stuff usually doesn’t happen on this blog—-why now?
A. It happens anytime you write something negative about Apple, no matter how minor.
Q. I also noticed that a number of PC users posted angry anti-Apple comments. Why is that?
A. It happens anytime you write something positive about Apple, no matter how minor.
Q. Where are those comments now?
A. I deleted most of them, but if you really want to see what a huge stupid loser I am, read unedited cussing, and references to my mother, (and much more), go check out the 209 comments about my review at Digg.com. Here’s the link (for your convenience).
Q. Don’t they know you’ve been an Apple supporter for many years?
A. It’s doesn’t matter—no one is allow to criticize Apple. Just ask Terry White (who runs MacGroup Detroit—if he posts the most minor criticism of an Apple product, he gets slammed). When I criticize Adobe, nobody gets upset, and I hope it’s because they know I’m not an Adobe-hater; I only point these things out because I want Adobe to keep improving their products, which they do. Adobe listens. When I criticize Apple, it’s for the same reasons, (In this case, I want them to give me a preference to turn off the gestures, or I want Adobe to give me a preference to turn off Rotate View”) but when you criticize Apple “All bets are off.” I’m not an Apple-hater on any level. But I’m hatin’ that trackpad. Whoops—I did it again.
Q. Have you gotten your prints back from MPIX yet, to compare screen to output?
A. Not yet (it’s a long story why), but I won’t have them back until next week. More on this then.
Q. Anything else?
A. Nope. I await your angry responses. In all caps, if possible, and don’t forget to use a fake name and anonymous email address.



















I think some people should get over their self. Scott your review was good and I have found out that some of my friends are having the same problems so thanks for the review it let me know what to look at for when I get my new Mac book pro. Don’t forget to tell us how your prints turn out form Mpix. Keep up the good work!!!
Thanks for always sharing your honest opinions! I want to know the truth, not just fanboy praises! It’s what makes the blog such a great tool for photographers!
Hey Scott – I think you should keep the reviews coming. There are haters no matter where you go and the only way for a company to listen and improve is if someone gives them the feedback.
I have one of the new powerbooks and although I rarely try to do any serious editing with the trackpad (I would have my degree revoked if anyone from Cal Arts ever cought me…lol) I have had none of the problems that you described in your “review”. It took a couple days to get used to it, then it was all super easy.
I am curious, and I mean this in no derogatory way whatsoever, but the new pads seem to favor smaller and more slender fingers. I have seen some recent photos from PS world and you seem to be a pretty “big” guy. Can having pudgy fingers have any effect on the usefulness of the trackpad?
The battery issue is really not a problem for me or anyone I know. Its fair to say that you travel more than almost any graphic artist, animator, and most photographers that I know (other than a handful of sports or press photogs). You have very different needs for a laptop that a normal working pro. People forget that you are a trade educator, not a photographer or artist. Having to change the battery on a long trip between being near power outlets is no big deal to me. And if it takes a little longer to change is not a huge deal to me at all.
I thought your review was fine, although really more of a brief opinion than a review. I do feel that you should specify your specific requirements for a laptop because I think the differ a lot from the masses (or even the majority of working professional artists, designers, and photographers).
Wow, Scott. That’s all I can say. I’ve been following your *great* blog for months, and I read it *because* of how open and straightforward you are, and how you speak your mind. In a world of secret agendas and controlled media, personal opinion from an experienced professional is refreshing. Admittedly, every professional (and non-) has his own techniques and aesthetic opinions, but the fact you are under such attack (looked at Digg) is just ridiculous. Just let the man speak his mind. No computer is perfect. Everything, from trackpads to glossy screens to Dell to Canon to Nikon, has its drawbacks. Settle down, people.
Scott, great blog. Thanks!
Steve
I enjoyed the review, I’d love to have the new Macbook Pro (if I had a use for one). People can say whatever they want. The Mac-PC comments never get old either, so good and always entertaining.
About doing it with a touchpad, I can only back you up by saying that it’s all up to getting used to. I have a habit to take my laptop and work in my bed in the evening, and that’s when I do a lot of retouching… Most of my work is now done in lightroom anyway, so no touchpad problems there, and for most of the things in photoshop it’s really suficient.
Yes, of course when I’m doing commercial work or something more complicated that I use a mouse, but for everyday use, touchpad is just as useful. btw, I have an ASUS laptop
cheers,
Borna
Fanatics of any kind, be they religious, political, Mac or PC are scary, scary peeps. That they can’t take criticism, especially the constructive type, about an idea, or a product, of all things, makes you wonder how they deal with things like performance reviews at work. Do they call their boss stupid, along with a plethora of other cute pet names? (Well, of course not, because there, people would know their real names and they’d have to look people in the eye. Cowards.)
Nice review, Scott. I’m a PC user, would like to be a Mac. You’re review won’t sway my opinion, but it will make me investigate further and keep an eye out to see how Apple addresses the issue. Thanks for your honest opinion!
Scott you do a great job here. I assume that you are so TOUGH that you do not take it personally.
But the problem is that Apple is not just a brand it’s a religion. Criticism of religion is also criticism of the Faithful. Many people take it so personally.
It began in 1984 when the first Mac was presented. PC vs. Mac. Hatred and Love.
I have a PC / Vista for now, have had the Mac until 2001 when I went over because of my work. I would like to have a MAC again, but spend my money on camera in the present situation.
I am following this discussion a little bit of distance. I think it’s just childish.
Think there is a more mature discussion in terms of cameras such as Canon vs. Nikon, where owners can see the pros and cons of each brand.
great initial review that was just the usual Apple can do no wrong crap that we usually get served
Even better follow up post with your super honest reply to all the Haters
Keep up the good work!!!
Nick.
Scott, I like your previous review and this Q&A post too. Objectivism rocks!
Will be glad to hear more about your journey with new Apple hardware. Keep it! It saves time and $ of your readers!
Respect! Thanks!
Wow, I’m shocked by the responses you received..
I’m amazed at the people who use laptops and don’t get used to the trackpads on there machines. I’ve used laptops as my main machine for at least ten years and everyone that sees me use it says the same thing.
HOW IN THE HECK CAN YOU USE THAT THING!
All of you mouse uses have to do is use it and you will get used to it.
No mouse on my laptops, takes up to much space. (Why do you think they call them laptops)
Thanks for your review of the new Apple machines as I’m thinking of switching and you have made me re-think and maybe hold off a bit.
Shocked and saddened by all of the hostility and crap you have to deal with just for posting your opinion on a product
Don’t let them get you down, please keep up the good work, it’s much appreciated
Kelby support group unite !
hey scott , sorry to hear about the rough time.
you would think people would know that a review is just someones opinion
and opinions are like belly buttons , evrey one has one.
as my grandma always said , evrey one is entitled to there own opinions , they can be wrong if they want
thanks for the time and work you pour into your materials , im one who is going to keep reading , and wont rant
In case you actually read this , I am glad I am not the only person who found …. improvement/change needed in the new macbook pro
oh those tough internet bullies !!! They sound so “tough” especially when they use caps
Ignore them Scott
PS I am still waiting for a keyboard solo from the Electric Cat
A long time ago when a was a young lad just starting out in the world of working for a living, after a week of hell and abuse (retail job at the time) a very wise man – my boss at the time – took me aside and said “Simon. There are dickheads out there, and they’re comin’ to get us. You have been warned.” 20 years later I see they are still comin’….
Keep up the good work Scott. Life has plenty of far more serious things for people to get worked up about. A lot a just a little to focused on themselves to see that.
YOU &#@$N STEAMING BAG OF *$*&^#%&! HOW DARE YOU CALL US ANGRY?! HOW DARE YOU MAKE A MINOR CRITICISM OF OUR HUGE FLAWS? YOU CALLING US ANGRY HAS MADE ME ANGRY! NOW I WILL CONTINUE TO SWEAR WITH ALL SYMBOLS *&!%$#!
ANONYMOUS COMMENTOR SMASH!!!
Hi Scott,
I am sorry to hear that you receive hateful comments. I have been reading your blog for a few months (I found it after having enjoyed reading Digital Photography 2), and I really enjoy and appreciate it.
I hope that you will continue to write in your honest and straightforward style.
Cheers,
Jakob
The one thing in your review I would really like to be updated on is your color correction issues. In the last couple months I purchased a Dell LCD that has a glossy screen and my pictures on the computer look so much better I can’t believe it. It would be great to hear if you get your prints to match the monitor and how you got there.
Keep up the great work on the blog. It is a must read, I look forward to every day.
Mike
Scott,
As always, I loved reading your honest review. It amazed me how you were personally attacked for your opinions. Also, I didn’t know I was supposed to be embarrassed because I use only a trackpad. Who knew!!
Scott,
Sorry to hear that some people out there still don’t get that it is okay to have an opposing opinion on certain topics. Although, it appears as though you seemed to have handled the criticisms, questions, and “haters” very well. Keep up the good work.
Genaro
P.S. Hardware calibration devices are a godsend. Personally, I utilize a Huey Pro. I thought my colors looked good before on screen, but it was as though I had seen the light, the first time I ran the hardware calibration device. I would highly recommend, even to those that believe that their monitors don’t need it.
http://www.orengophotography.com
Hi Scott,
Some people will never appreciate an honest opinion…..
except from themselves (and then you better listen!)
Keep up the good work!
Dennis (the Netherlands)
Park the car??? Get your Mama to park the car!
Ah the holly grail “Apple”….. I think its funny that when someone says something negative about Apple there are some people that come rushing in to fight back so hard to defend some mythical honor of Apple. I wonder if they would do the same for their own family?
I don’t care what it says on the box, you should be able to use a device in any manor you choose, and the software should allow as much customization as possible. In my business we create software for a couple of Fortune 500 companies and we don’t dare tell the clients to bend their way of doing business to meet the functions of the software.
Anyway Scott Keep up the great work, and I respect your honesty when you don’t like something, which puts weight in the many times when you do.
Ah, I apologize for other people’s ignorance! How rude! When I read a review, I want the truth! Mac lover or not, I need an unbiased review. So, I personally got a lot out of the review. Thanks!
Hey Scott, I read your reviews and your blog every morning when I get to work. I always look forward to your honest and unbiassed reviews. I am sorry that it seems like the majority of people don’t have anything better to do than sitting around criticizing other’s reviews.
Keep up the good work!
- Matt
Somehow this made me feel better after being slammed about a review I did a month ago. Everyone has an opinion online. Sometimes good, bad, useful, uneducated, or just because they can.
Thank you Scott!
…for sharing your experience with the new MacBook Pro. I read your blog every day and appreciate what you write, – so also this time.
I´m a PC user and have been considering getting a Mac as well for my “Digital Photo Workflow”.
I find it very “interesting” that your honest comments, based on your experience with the MacBook Pro, were received the way they were by some readers who actually could benefit from the suggested updates as well, – why put the head in the sand?
Ben
Scott,
I read your blog every day and find it a great and honest read so thanks very much for spending the time doing it.
My reason for commenting is that I find it rather ironic that you get so much stick when this past weekent here in the UK it has been Rememberance Sunday, the day we remember all the servicemen who gave their lives in the wars so that we could all enjoy freedom which includes freedom of speech. How would those guys have felt while suffering beyond belief in the trenches or on a Normandy beach if they were to see what the result of their heroic efforts was? The people who had a go at you and your Mum for Gods sake are the lowest form of life and that’s being kind to them. I’d be willing to bet that ther isn’t a product on the market anywhere that doesn’t have at least one annoying feature.
You have a right to your opinion Scott and I for one hope you never stop expressing it, keep up the good work.
All the best.
Phil Walker
Apparently there are a lot of low-IQ non-NAPP members out there. Hopefully they will be angry enough to follow the link back to the blog and see that it is for “friends of Scott Kelby,” but that would require at least some intelligence and primate-equivalent motor skills.
I’m not sure if this is funny or sad. Over the past couple years, it has become an entertaining diversion here at the office to read how ridiculous so many digg comments sound.
Kirk’s comment made me laugh. Keep him around!
While I’m a Mac user and fan, I was onboard with your initial review 100%. Honestly you made me happy that I wasn’t the only one with some issues on that new track pad! Sorry to hear other Mac fans got all wound up about an honest review!
Keep telling us what you think….and most of us will respond with positive comments back. Well, until you step on something that we get all wound up about……!
Kidding of course!
I’m a PC user. I tried a Mac, it was fine but most of my applications are PC based. When I had questions about a Mac, my Mac friends would be very helpful, but when I expressed “comments” or “opinions” about the Mac then the angry words would come out. Macs- love the machines, but the users drive me nuts.
Scott,
Thanks for your blog. It’s interesting reading. I don’t know that I’ve read a post before with so many ridiculous comments…imagine the brain cells wasted for reading through the digg link. I don’t get why people freaked so much. “Go play in a food processor.” Wow!!
It’s also interesting how brutal people have become in the photo world. It seems in this “everyone’s an expert photog” world people are trying their best to one-up each other, negatively critique each other’s work (looking for ways to boost their own self-esteem instead of offering constructive criticisms or opinions), etc.
Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for the practical content.
I got a big laugh everytime a coment stated that you should use a mouse. Why even bother having a touchpad (PC name here haha) if you just are going to use a mouse?
Anyway, to me, it wold be something like: Coment: “I don’t like my laptop screen”
Reply: “just buy a monitor and plug it in your laptop”
nonsense!
Scott,
Hey, I appreciate your reviews. I have a pc, but a Mac is not in the budget right now. But being new at digital photography and Photoshop which I have had for a while and just now venturing into, with the help of your book, “photoshop CS3 for digital photographers.” So please keep up the good work. Thanks for taking your time to share.
Another short comment. Computer geeks don’t travel and don’t really understand the whole concept of mobility. They own a shiny laptop because it’s “cool” and make them look like an “underground mobile hacker” (or whatever their insane dreams are).
Good grief.. I can’t believe some of the comments you got Scott. FWIW, I am a mac girl.. and I totally agree about the screen. I cannot stand it. And don’t even bother trying to work near a window, it turns it into a mirror. I also have not used a mouse for years. The closest thing to a mouse i use if my wacom tablet when i am working in AI. So I hear ya there too.
I still love Apple tho.. and will continue to use macs.
Scott,
I read through some of the comments on Digg and I’m amazed (but not surprised) at the response. It’s unfortunate that people can’t deal with feedback which isn’t glowingly positive. I read your MacBook Pro review and I think you raise some valid issues and hopefully Apple and/or Adobe will address them. Keep up the good work!
LOVE YOUR WORK SCOTT!!!! Haters be darned.
I thought your comments the other day were simply first hand user observations & opinions from a reviewer we know & trust – you. Gosh had no idea you’d get so many negative comments from the bizzaro world.
You rock! Forget the haters…
Best wishes,
Carlo M
Something I’ve been saying for a while now is that, when it comes to the software wars (between Apple, Microsoft or what have you), the winner is going to be the company that listens to their community better (and sooner).
Adobe is good for that. I hope they’ll fix the rotate view problem for you. Keep up the honest reviews.
No fake name or email here, as you know Scott.
Well, there used to be a time in this country where heated sentiments were aborbed and welcomed so as debate could be fostered. Yeah, slurs and derisive and derogatory comments are not necessary; but questioning the ability of one’s common sense is fair game when logic tells you they are not acting with common sense.
Heck you cannot even talk about competency anymore for the amount of feelings people wear on their proverbial sleeves is enough to overweight the most prodigious of dumb trucks.
To be continued…
Pat in Houston
Is there no option to adjust the sensitivity in System Preferences? Seems like there should be. Wonder if someone has created an add on that would give you that capability? Obviously, you would have to do all your strokes a little more firmly but you could get rid of the feather touch issue.
Zealots hate people whose desire for integrity is stronger than the desire for conformity. They may be louder than others, but they are not the majority. Don’t sweat it!
It’s not just Apple reviews, Scott – most people just don’t read entire articles. Therefore, they have no idea what the overall meaning and tone are. They find one or two sentences or phrases and paste them in as proof of their agendas, usually followed by a misspelled slur of some kind. I fear for the future.
Scott,
I haven’t commented in a while, so I figured I would just encourage you to keep speaking freely. The thing that sets you apart is not what people say about you, but what you do with what people say about you. You obviously took the lemonade route. Good work! Keep being positive and don’t let it get you down.
Blessings,
Doug
No matter how low some people stoop, I am glad you are not stooping to their level and not letting them get to you. You are a great photographer and Photoshop leader, and they will get over it. I honestly have never used Apple (ahh!), and I wouldn’t mind trying it out, but I like to get your opinions on things before I go out and pend the money on them. So, boohoo to the cry babies, and keep rockin’, Scott!!!
Digg is an abysmal swamp full of socially challenged 14 year olds using their daddy’s computer and feeling that Internet anonymity lets them say anything they couldn’t normally get away with face to face…