Atomos has unveiled the Ninja Phone, a revolutionary device that turns your iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max into a professional video recording beast. This innovative kit combines Atomos’s processing muscle with the iPhone’s power, allowing you to capture high-quality 10-bit ProRes footage from any professional HDMI camera.
Now a device that turns your iPhone into an external video monitor is hardly news. Acsoon put the Seemo on the market two years ago. But here’s where things get interesting: Atomos is betting big on the iPhone 15 Pro’s stunning OLED display as a professional monitor. “This screen delivers exceptional clarity and detail,” said Atomos CEO Jeromy Young, “making it a perfect companion for modern mirrorless cameras.”
The iPhone 15 Pro’s OLED tech boasts an impressive 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG. This translates to flawless outdoor shooting with a wider dynamic range, eliminating the need for extra monitors.
The Atomos Ninja Phone doubles down as a high-resolution external monitor, complete with a dedicated app for tweaking camera settings and switching between ProRes and H.265 codecs with full 10-bit color and resolution, and then for storing captured ProRes videos directly to your iPhone for easy editing, or instantly uploaded camera-to-cloud style for smoother cloud storage and workflows. It can even live stream to the internet.
Designed for on-the-go creators, the Ninja Phone comes housed in a protective case with a built-in recorder and mounting points for attaching accessories like lights or microphones. Plus, its flexible power system keeps both the recorder and your iPhone juiced for extended shoots, all in a lightweight package of less than 350 grams (iPhone included) that won’t weigh you down.
The Ninja Phone caters to both seasoned filmmakers and social media enthusiasts. Creators can choose between traditional widescreen or the trendy 9:16 aspect ratio for social media content. It even works with iPads, allowing you to record directly to your iPad Pro for a bigger editing canvas.
The Atomos Ninja Phone is now available for pre-order. The recorder module starts at $399, with the Ninja Phone Case (including a secure cable management system) priced at $59. Shipping starts in June 2024.
ZhiyunTech has unveiled its latest breakthrough in lighting technology with the launch of the Molus X60 series. This ultra-compact video light not only boasts color ratings nearing perfection on the TLCI scale but also incorporates an innovative active cooling system, ensuring extended usage without compromise.
At the core of the Molus X60’s brilliance lies its COB light engine, delivering a formidable 60 watts of power output. Remarkably, this compact powerhouse can sustain full illumination for up to 50 minutes before requiring a recharge, thanks to its efficient design.
The Molus X60 comes in two variants: the bi-color model and the RGB version. The bi-color variant offers a temperature range spanning from 2700 to 6500 Kelvin, accompanied by an impressive CRI rating of 95 and a TLCI rating of 97. Meanwhile, its RGB counterpart elevates color accuracy even further with a stellar TLCI rating of 98, alongside a commendable CFI of 95.
Designed to fit snugly in the palm of a filmmaker’s hand, the Molus X60 emits a meticulously calibrated beam of light, boasting a luminous flux of 2680 Lux at 3.3 feet and 6500K. It caters primarily to social media content creators, solo videographers, and vloggers seeking a lightweight and portable lighting solution for on-the-go usage.
The Molus X60’s DynaVort MKII active cooling system sets a new standard in compact cooling technology. Despite its diminutive size, this cooling mechanism effectively dissipates heat, thereby extending the lifespan of the chip-on-board LED. Furthermore, users have the flexibility to power the light using the supplied adapter, an optional cable, or the additional battery grip, which houses a rechargeable 2550 mAh battery for seamless field operations.
Controlled effortlessly via Zhiyun’s ZY Vega app, the Molus X60 offers comprehensive customization options, allowing users to adjust brightness levels across the entire CCT range with 0-100% dimming capability. Additionally, an array of dynamic lighting effects, including SOS, paparazzi, TV, and more, can be easily activated. The light also features a music mode, synchronizing its output with the rhythm of the accompanying music.
With dimensions of 3.9 x 2.8 x 2.2 inches (10 x 7.1 x 5.6 cm) and a weight ranging from 0.7 to 1.5 pounds (319g – 683g), the Molus X60 epitomizes portability without compromise. Each unit comes equipped with essential accessories, including a mini reflector, diffusion dome, and power adapter with cable. Moreover, with Zhiyun’s proprietary ZY Mount, users can seamlessly integrate various Bowens-mounted accessories using the optional adapter.
Pricing and Availability:
The Zhiyun Molus X60 Bi-Color LED COB Light is available for pre-order at a retail price of $199, while the X60 RGB LED variant is priced at $249. For those seeking added convenience, the X60 Combo Kit, featuring a grip battery and bag, is available for $269. Alternatively, the Pro Kit, priced at $399, includes two grip batteries, a softbox, and a carrying bag. All configurations come with complimentary expedited two-day shipping.Β Shipping is slated to commence soon.
Videographers and content creators, rejoice! Zacuto, the renowned camera accessory innovator, has unveiled the Micro Boom, a lightweight and portable on-camera boom pole poised to revolutionize your audio capture experience. Say goodbye to bulky equipment and extra crew members; this miniature marvel promises high-quality sound recording, solo style.
Convenience Meets Quality in a Compact Package:
Imagine a telescoping boom that extends from 14 to 35 inches, crafted from featherweight carbon fiber for effortless portability. That’s the Micro Boom, designed to fit seamlessly into your mobile content creation workflow. No more wrestling with external XLR setups; the integrated 3.5mm cable streamlines microphone connection, getting you recording faster. And the best part? It’s universally compatible, mounting directly onto smartphones, mirrorless cameras, camcorders, and even professional cinema cameras using NATO rails or optional adapters.
Solo Operation, Superior Sound:
Tired of compromising audio quality in noisy environments? The Micro Boom brings the microphone closer to your subjects, capturing crisp, clear sound even in less-than-ideal settings. And forget the need for a dedicated audio technician; this handy tool empowers solo filmmakers to capture high-quality interviews and testimonials with confidence. Whether you’re vlogging on the go, conducting mobile journalism, or tackling on-location shoots, the Micro Boom is your versatile audio companion.
The Perfect Pairing: The Micro Mixer
Looking for even more control over your audio? Look no further than Zacuto’s Micro Mixer, the ideal companion to the Micro Boom (sold separately). This compact powerhouse allows you to mix two microphones simultaneously, fine-tuning levels and panning with intuitive dials and switches for real-time sound management. Perfect for interviews, podcasts, live streaming, and any scenario demanding refined audio, the Micro Mixer elevates your sound game to new heights.
Availability and Pricing:
The Micro Boom is available for pre-order at $125 for the first 150 to order, rising to $165. Shipping will occur in March, 2024. Conversely, the Micro Mixer is sold out, but interested parties can register for email notifications to be alerted when it’s back in stock.
With its compact design, universal compatibility, and focus on solo operation, the Zacuto Micro Boom is poised to be a game-changer for creators seeking to elevate their audio without unnecessary complications. Paired with the Micro Mixer, it offers a powerful and portable audio recording setup that’s sure to capture the hearts (and ears) of both seasoned professionals and aspiring content creators alike.
RΓDE has announced a limited edition dual transmitter version of its popular Wireless ME microphone.Β The dual Wireless Me kit will be available as part of the company’s limited edition white collection, with the choice of Black or White color schemes for a limited time.
Known as the ultimate grab-and-go wireless microphone, the RΓDE Wireless ME limited edition dual set features two transmitters and one receiver. The Wireless ME incorporates RΓDE’s state-of-the-art Series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission, ensuring universal compatibility with cameras, smartphones, and computers. Other notable features include the RΓDE’s revolutionary GainAssist technology, which uses intelligent algorithms for real-time audio level control. Gain Assist makes setup effortless and ensures pristine audio quality across various recording applications.
Uniquely, the Wireless ME is equipped with a built-in mic on the receiver, enabling simultaneous recording from both in front of and behind the camera. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for interviews and voiceovers in video content. And through the addition of a second wireless transmitter, content creators can mic-up additional talent for recording sound on interviews, live streaming, and more.
The option of going with a white version of the Wireless Me is also beneficial as a discreet solution when working with talent who typically wear lighter coloured clothing β from wedding videographers to business professionals β or creators who simply prefer a white aesthetic.Β Much like the black model though, RΓDE has still opted to put a bold logo in an inverted color on the units so they stand out on screen. Therefore, users will still have to use some gaffer tape to cover on the either color.Β In spite of this, the option should be a welcome one for wedding videographers, or those who have invested in some of RΓDE’s previous limited edition white gear including the RΓDECaster Duo, PodMic, PSA1+ and NTH-100.
Scheduled for release for the RΓDE Wireless Me Dual Limited Edition is set for Spring 2024 at a retail price of $199. Existing Wireless ME users don’t have to worry that RΓDE has sold them out for jumping the gun on the original Wireless Me, however. The company sells transmitters piecemeal for approximately $90. Unfortunately,Β like the original Wireless Me, RΓDE has no plans to offer a charging case, and specifically state that the Wireless GO II charger case that the company sells online will not work due to slight dimensional differences. However, there are third-party charging cases available for about $50 on Amazon. But be sure the Wireless Me models can fit.
Get ready to rethink portable professional audio. DJI, known for their innovative drones and gimbals, has annoucned the Mic 2 wireless recording system hat punches far above its weight in both features and value. With the Mic 2, DJI not only provides a higher end performance for the single content creator, but fires a shot across RΓDE’s bow with a game-changing pro audio option.
Unbreakable Sound, Even Over Extended Takes
Imagine capturing crystal-clear, uncompressed 24-bit audio for up to 14 hours at a time, without storage worries. The Mic 2 makes it a reality thanks to its impressive recording capacity and a clever -6dB safety track on each transmitter. This means even if your main audio goes awry, you’ll have a backup recording at a lower volume, safeguarding your precious takes.
32-Bit Floating Point Recording
Remember fiddling with mic levels before every recording? Those days are gone. The Mic 2 boasts 32-bit floating point technology, a feature pioneered by RΓDE in 2023. This revolutionary tech automatically adapts to varying sound environments, eliminating clipping and distortion. Simply hit record and trust the Mic 2 to capture pristine audio, every time.
Crystal-Clear Vocals with Noise Cancellation
Whether you’re recording in a bustling city street or a windy field, the Mic 2 has you covered. Intelligent noise cancellation keeps your vocals clean and clear, while the included dead cat windscreens provide an extra layer of protection against gusty conditions. You can now confidently record professional-quality audio wherever your creative journey takes you.
Extended Range
The Mic 2 boasts a remarkable 820-foot (250 m) wireless transmission range, giving you unparalleled freedom to move and capture sound. Shoot interviews across a spacious studio, film live events with ease, or record stunning wildlife footage – the Mic 2’s extended range opens up a world of creative possibilities.
Intuitive Design Meets All-Day Power
The Mic 2 isn’t just about cutting-edge tech; it’s also designed for user-friendliness. The compact and sleek design features a responsive 1.1-inch OLED touchscreen, a precision dial for quick adjustments, and haptic feedback for intuitive control. Plus, with a 6-hour battery life extendable to 18 hours with the included charging case, you can record all day without missing a beat.
Pro Audio Made Affordable
For just $219, the Mic 2 single-transmitter package delivers everything you need to elevate your audio game. Want even more flexibility? The two-transmitter option with a charging case comes in at just $349. And the best part? DJI offers individual transmitters, receivers, and accessories, allowing you to customize your setup exactly to your needs. The DJI Mic 2 is available starting today in either Shadow Black or Pearl White.
Final thoughts
The DJI Mic 2 is a revolution in portable pro audio. With its cutting-edge features, impressive range, and surprisingly affordable price tag, it sets a new standard for both audio enthusiasts and seasoned professionals alike. So, whether you’re a vlogger on the go, a filmmaker seeking cinematic sound, or a musician wanting studio-quality recordings, the Mic 2 is an express ticket to capturing exceptional audio that takes content to the next level.
Blackmagic Design continues to revolutionize mobile filmmaking with the latest update to its iOS Camera app, propelling it beyond competitors like FiLMiC Pro. The version 1.21 update introduces expanded SLR lens support, extended ISO ranges, and a host of new features that redefine the potential of smartphone cinematography.
The renowned technology company, known for its trailblazing advancements in the cinematic realm, has fortified its iOS Camera app with enhancements that cater directly to filmmakers’ needs. Notably, the update integrates support for SLR camera lenses, enabling users to leverage the cinematic aesthetics and image circle these lenses offer. This enhancement empowers creators to experiment with various aspect ratios, aligning with the preferences of social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.
Among the key upgrades is the refined ISO control, allowing users to manipulate the ISO settings from as low as 21 to a high of 2116, granting greater flexibility and control over image exposure. This intuitive adjustment is easily accessible through a simple touch-and-slide mechanism on the app interface.
In addition to the lens and ISO improvements, the update bolsters support for Look-Up Tables (LUTs), streamlining the import process and facilitating comparison between different LUT versions. The app’s settings menu now includes a dedicated space for LUT installation, simplifying the process for users to incorporate and manage their desired LUTs effectively.
Furthermore, the update addresses various user experience enhancements and bug fixes. Blackmagic has rectified issues related to preview quality during phone orientation changes and resolved audio sync problems when switching lenses during recording, significantly enhancing the overall stability and usability of the app.
The Blackmagic Camera app, exclusively available for iOS devices, can be updated to version 1.21 via the iOS App Store, reaffirming the company’s commitment to empowering filmmakers with cutting-edge mobile cinematography tools.
Blackmagic has released an update to its Blackmagic Camera app designed to make recording video on the iPhone more reliable and user-friendly. The Camera 1.2 update introduces haptic feedback for control dials, providing a more precise and intuitive experience for making adjustments. Additionally, the app’s screen layout has been improved, and six new languages have been added.
The updated layout ensures that essential controls, including focus peaking, zebra, and false color, remain visible even when the image is zoomed in, allowing mobile filmmakers to closely monitor focus and image quality during recording. Improved grid controls with horizon detection and the ability to flip the image for SLR lenses with depth-of-field adapters further enhance the app’s usability.
Blackmagic has also added support for custom LUTs, enabling users to apply specific looks to their footage and embed them directly into the video file. Flicker-free recording is now possible thanks to adjustable shutter presets for 50 or 60 Hz settings, ensuring compatibility with various lighting environments.
Apple Log has been expanded to include a Rec 709 LUT, providing users with more color grading options. Additionally, users can now tag the color space for their footage. Audio recording has also been enhanced, with the option to choose from the iPhone’s front, back, or even bottom microphones for directional audio capture.
Performance improvements include refined animations for player and slate views, as well as stealth mode optimization for smaller iPhone models. Users can now group camera settings for more efficient management, and clips can be dragged and dropped between different projects in the media panel.
To further enhance the user experience, Blackmagic has added six new languages to the app: Chinese, Spanish, French, Japanese, Korean, and Portuguese. Setting adjustments can also be exported and imported, and the recording HUD has been improved. Additionally, uploading can be disabled while on data to conserve bandwidth.
The Blackmagic Camera 1.2 update is available as a free download from the Apple iOS app store.
DJI and SkyPixel have announced the launch of the 9th Annual SkyPixel Photo & Video Contest. Running from November 7, 2023, to February 2, 2024, this year’s contest promises to inspire creators by offering a substantial prize package valued at over $200,000.
The contest serves as a platform for artists to break new ground and push the boundaries of aerial photography and videography. Nan Li, the Photo Director of Southern Weekly, aptly stated, “The art of visual expression revolves around pushing the boundaries of the mind and nurturing creative thought.” Now, in its 9th year, the SkyPixel Annual Photo & Video Contest continues to be a source of captivating moments captured from the sky, igniting curiosity, reimagining the art of imagery, and immersing the public in the enchanting world of aerial photography.
A Competition for the Creative Minds
The SkyPixel Annual Photo & Video Contest is a celebration of the remarkable stories that have shaped the art of image capture, whether from solid ground or soaring through the skies. Over nine years, the contest has evolved to genuinely reflect the desires and aspirations of the global community, drawing in an impressive 260,000 submissions and garnering over a billion views worldwide. It has become a platform where exceptional works and photographers receive the recognition they deserve, further advancing the field of aerial photography.
This year’s competition brings exciting changes that promise to elevate the competition. In addition to the main competition, three new Monthly Competitions have been introduced, with each month focusing on a unique category. November highlights Multi-focal length, December spotlights FPV images, and January will showcase Handheld photography. Submissions to the monthly competitions can also be entered into the main competition, offering participants more opportunities to compete for both monthly and overall awards. Furthermore, a new creative category for video creators has been incorporated, providing even more opportunities for participants to showcase their talents.
Distinguished Judging Panel
This year’s competition boasts an impressive panel of judges in both the photo and video categories. In photography, seasoned experts include Wen Huang, a World Press Photo judge and Senior Editor, Anne Farrar, Assistant Photography Chief Editor at National Geographic, Nan Li, the Photo Director of Southern Weekly, and Daniel Kordan, a renowned landscape photographer.
The video category judges include Michael Fitzmaurice, the Aerial Director of Photography of “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle,” and Xiaoshi Zhao, known for his award-winning work on “Forever Enthralled.” Bing Xi, a prominent figure in the Chinese TVC industry, and celebrated filmmaker Brandon Li complete the panel, ensuring a fair and critical evaluation of entries.
Generous Prizes Await the Winners
In a year filled with excitement, SkyPixel and DJI are proud to present a total of 79 awards, with a total value exceeding $200,000. The Best Work accolade winners in the video category will be rewarded with an Inspire 3, while those in the photo category will receive a Hasselblad X2D 100C. Each prize is worth $20,000 and $14,000, respectively. Winners will also be signed as official SkyPixel Creators and receive a prestigious trophy and an award certificate to honor their achievement. An array of other prizes includes top-tier offerings such as the DJI Mavic 3 Pro, DJI Air 3, DJI Avata, Osmo Pocket 3, Osmo Action 4, and Osmo Mobile 6, providing participants with numerous opportunities to expand their creative horizons.
Contest Categories for Aerial Artists
The photo contest consists of four categories:
The Nature Category β A Force of Nature: Share impactful moments of nature’s grandeur.
The Architecture Category β Beauty in Design: Showcase innovative and inspiring architectural designs.
The Portrait Category β Portrait in the Sky: Capture the essence of your subjects.
The Sports Category β More Than a Game: Highlight the significance of sports in people’s lives.
All photos must be shot using a drone and meet specific resolution requirements.
The video contest consists of five categories:
The Nature Category β A Force of Nature: Showcase the natural world’s beauty.
The City Category β Urban Inspiration: Explore the transformative influence of cities.
The Travel Category β Explore Destinations: Share captivating visual stories of your travel adventures.
The Sports Category β More Than a Game: Capture the essence of sports.
Creative β Break the Mold: Explore novel approaches in creativity.
All videos must include at least 30 seconds of footage shot with DJI equipment.
Submission Details and Where to Learn More
Submission Start Date: November 7, 2023, 12:00 (UTC+8)
Submission End Date: February 2, 2024, 23:59 (UTC+8)
Award Announcement: March 19, 2024, 12:00 (UTC+8)
Interested participants can find more information on contest rules and guidelines by visiting the SkyPixel 9th Annual Photo & Video Contest website at www.skypixel.com/contests/2023.
Apple was so confident in their new lineup of M3 Macs that they shot the entire Scary Fast keynote event exclusively on the iPhone 15 Pro Max.Β Β Talk about cinematic.
During the highly anticipated 2023 Adobe MAX Sneaks presentation, Adobe astounded the audience with a remarkable array of experimental features that harnessed the incredible capabilities of generative AI. These innovative tools were designed to revolutionize the realms of video, audio, and 3D design, ushering in a new era of creative possibilities.
Before diving into the list of remarkable features showcased at the 2023 Adobe MAX Sneaks presentation, it’s worth highlighting not only Adobe Firefly, but also Project Stardust, an impressive innovation that has the potential to transform image editing. Adobe Firefly is already revolutionizing content creation across video, audio, animation, and motion graphics. It streamlines video editing, reducing post-production time and automating tasks. In audio, it enhances sound quality, simplifies dubbing, and caters to global audiences. In animation, it empowers creatives with lifelike movements and stunning effects, enhancing overall efficiency.
Meanwhile, Project Stardust simplifies the process of selecting, editing, and even deleting complex elements within any image, ushering in a new era of intuitive, accessible, and time-efficient image editing. For instance, this groundbreaking tool allows users to select individuals within a photograph, relocate them within the composition, and seamlessly fill in the background where they once stood. Users can also tweak elements like clothing color or positioning, treating static images as if they were files with layers.
Now, let’s delve into the impressive array of features demonstrated at this year’s Adobe MAX Sneaks presentation:
Project Fast Fill
One of the most groundbreaking unveilings was Project Fast Fill, which introduced the power of Firefly generative AI to the realm of video editing. For the first time, this tool allowed users to effortlessly remove objects or seamlessly alter background elements within video footage, matching the quality and fluidity of traditional still image editing. With Project Fast Fill, users could achieve feats like removing an unwanted person from a video clip or seamlessly transitioning a scene to a completely different location. The AI’s prowess automatically filled the void with realistic content that harmonized perfectly with the surrounding environment, opening up endless creative opportunities.
Project Dub Dub Dub
Project Dub Dub Dub was another game-changing feature that showcased Adobe’s prowess in AI automation. This tool streamlined the complex process of video dubbing by automatically translating a recording or audio track into all supported languages. Remarkably, it preserved the original speaker’s voice, ensured temporal alignment with the original dialogue, and readied the content for global publication. For video creators, this was a monumental time-saver, facilitating the process of translating content for a worldwide audience and making videos more accessible to non-English speakers.
Project Scene Change
Project Scene Change is a new technology that makes it easy to composite a subject and a scene from two separate videos β captured with different camera trajectories β into one scene with synchronized camera motion.
This is done by using artificial intelligence to render a 3D representation of the background scene from a prerecorded image as if it was captured by a free-moving camera. The separately filmed subject is then composited into this new scene with proper shadows, creating a realistic and seamless effect.
Project Scene Change has the potential to revolutionize the way video editors work, as it removes any limitations due to the camera motion of existing video assets. This means that editors can now place a subject into any environment they want, with realistic camera motion, without having to reshoot the footage.
Project Neo
Project Neo is a new technology that enables creators to embrace simplified 3D design within 2D tools and methods.
This is done by using a new, unified 3D and 2D design space that allows creators to work with 3D objects in the same way that they would work with 2D shapes and images.
Project Neo also includes a number of new features that make it easier to create and edit 3D objects, such as non-destructive modeling and real-time rendering.
Project Neo has the potential to make 3D design more accessible to a wider range of creators, and to open up new possibilities for creative expression.
Project ResUp
Project ResUp is a new technology that uses artificial intelligence to upscale low-resolution images and videos to high resolution without sacrificing quality.
This is done by using a deep learning model that has been trained on a massive dataset of high-resolution images and videos. The model is able to learn the patterns and relationships between pixels in high-resolution images, and then use this knowledge to upscale low-resolution images and videos in a way that preserves detail and quality.
Project ResUp has the potential to be a valuable tool for creators who need to upscale their legacy work for different platforms, such as social media, print, or large-screen displays. It can also be used to restore old or damaged images and videos.
Project Posable
Beyond the sphere of video, Adobe didn’t hold back on revealing innovative AI-powered tools for audio and 3D design. Project Poseable, a prime example, was a novel AI-based image generation model that facilitated the creation of realistic 3D images and videos of people, even in intricate or impossible poses that would challenge traditional cameras.
Project Draw and Delight
Meanwhile, Project Draw & Delight emerged as a comprehensive suite of generative AI tools that breathed life into raw ideas, often mere doodles or scribbles, by transforming them into refined illustrations. This could really come in handy for those who can’t draw, looking to create compelling storyboards.
Final Thoughts
These dazzling examples are just the tip of the iceberg. Adobe’s commitment to AI-driven innovation is poised to change the game again for the creative landscape. These tools have the potential to democratize creativity, making it accessible to individuals of all skill levels.Β In the grander scheme of things, as AI technology continues to advance, we can anticipate an influx of even more innovative and potent tools that will enable us to explore and express ourselves in novel and thrilling ways. The democratization of creativity, enhanced accessibility, and a more powerful creative toolkit await us, thanks to Adobe’s pioneering efforts in the AI realm.
But the question remains … is it too late to keep this genie in the bottle?