[CharlesW]

> While you're definitely right about it having a steep learning curve, it's also true that not many RAW editors do what Darktable does.

If a Darktable developer happens to read this, I'd suggest looking at Nitro¹ for inspiration. I use it with Photos, and although Nitro doesn't need Photos (i.e. it can work directly with the filesystem), it's a good way to experience both "easy" and user-friendly "expert" paths.

¹https://www.gentlemencoders.com/nitro-for-macos/, the spiritual successor to Aperature by the former lead of Aperture, Photos, and related digital imaging technologies.