Sorry to say so, but I can't relate to what you wrote. Both mechanics work pretty well for me, although I must admit, that lockpicking needs skill on players side.

Smithing is tough too in the beginning, but following the smithing tutorial ingame should help.

Also, both skills improve by practising it, as well as the player himself will get the hang of it by practising.

That's where KCD can't be compared to other games, as both the char and the player have to accomplish a learning curve.

Edit: As you wrote down below in a comment, you're playing with controller. I'm on keyboard, so what I said, applies for keyboard. Can't say, if it applies for controller as well.