Well it's been one of the most interesting products available, but the delays could cause the hype to die down a bit. Is it finally going to be available tomorrow? According to one seller it's estimated to be. If you don't know what the Ninja is, you can read the earlier article here: http://cheesycam.com/atomos-ninja-any-day-now/
Videography Gadgets
DIY Slider – Big Brother
Vimeo member Lolo Two is at it again, but this time with a more 'polished' (no pun intended) version of his DIY Conduit Slider. The first version here: http://cheesycam.com/diy-conduit-camera-slider/ using 1/2" conduit piping looked like a simple build, but this new version (the Big Brother) with more surface area, polished piping, and double the couplers seems like a very solid build. You'll notice the smooth tracking with a simple push from a screwdriver, and the amount of weight thrown on with a Cinder Block. Very very cool stuff. [Thanks Lolo Two]
Tascam DR-05 Fires back at Zoom H1
Tascam DR-05 Portable Audio Recorder
Tascam has released a new DR-05 portable audio recorder that's firing back at the Zoom H1. Set up at the same pricing and target audience looking for a tiny portable recording device, this one might be the real game changer. Specs for the new Tascam DR-05 recording bitrate is similar to the Zoom H1, also includes stereo microphones, powered Mic 3.5 line input, headphones out, built in speaker, accepts MicroSD Card media, powered by (2) AA batteries or optional AC adapter.
Tascam DR-05 Portable Audio Recorder
There's no doubt that Zoom had cornered the market for $99 dollar portable recorders, but there was comments about the Zoom H1 plastic body and battery drain issues. Previously Tascam failed in providing a cost effective portable recorder to follow, as even the DR-03 was pricier than the Zoom H1. The DR-03 was thinner, but lacked mounting options and could only support a limited sized MicroSD card. With the release of this DR-05, this one could take the $99 dollar portable recorder crown. Oh and yes, this new Tascam DR-05 also has a threaded 1/4 x 20 mount (finally).
The Zoom H1 was a sell out for many weeks on it's first release, and from everything i'm seeing, this new Tascam is clearly a Charlie Sheen Winner. Once it arrives, i'll make the decision to move to all Tascam's and sell all Zoom H1's. Check out all the specs through the link below.
Small Camera Stabilizer – GoPro HD?
If you're an iPhone Video shooter, this Lensse Camera Stabilizer for phones is pretty fluid. (BTW that's not an iPhone. That's the Samsung Galaxy) I'm thinking it should be able to support my GoPro HD once i've added enough counterweights. The drilled brass socket for the Gimbal is smooth, but as other stabilizers like this the angle of rotation is limited. I'll need to really test the weight once my GoPro LCD Bacpac
Panasonic Lumix GH2
The Panasonic GH2 seems to have an almost cult-like following. Die hards from previous GH1 models are lovin' the upgrades the GH2 brings to the table. The great thing about these Micro 4/3 cameras aren't just the ability to adapt any practically any lens, but also the quality of Video they provide. Unfortunately it's still a tough camera to find, and always out of stock. This slow availability of cameras is not helping them gain more market share, which I see was a problem with the Nikon D7000. Still, if you have to have the Panasonic GH2 (as of yesterday), there's a few listings at the big auction site, with a very minimal markup.
Once you've picked up your GH2, you'll want to get a wide angle lens with good aperture. Best bang for the buck is Panasonic's 20mm Pancake lens F/1.7. Great lens, fast, and sharp. I just purchased one (I know i'm late) and it's been a top performer for photography. I'm still not a fan of Panasonic's focusing for video, but the quality of this wide lens is exceptional.
Zoom H4n (Factory Refurbished) Portable Recorder
The Zoom H4n Portable Audio Recorder
Low Profile Quick Release Adapter
Someone asked about a quick release adapter that would work best moving from a Flycam Nano over to some other different rigs. If you're not using a Fluid head like the Manfrotto 701HDV, then there's no reason you need to stick with the Manfrotto Compatible QR Adapter. The best low profile quick release adapter would be the Manfrotto 394
. This low profile wide plate is a perfect fit for DSLR's and also doesn't use the twisty little side knobs which makes it perfect for mounting on wide flat surfaces like non Manfrotto Fluid heads, Steadicams, Glidecams, Camera Cranes / Jibs, Sliders, DSLR Cages, and Shoulder Mounts. Yeah sometimes those little twisty knobs off to the side are annoying..
DIY DSLR Grip Shifter Follow Focus
An interesting start to a DIY DSLR shoulder rig inspired by the twist handle shift method. This time YouTube member geedubya101 uses a grip shifter from a bike and runs the firm cable to the lens. Another piece being used is a rotating flash bracket to add a side handle and some extra mounting options for accessories. Everything you need to know is all in the video, and it looks like it will be a cool little shoulder support when it's all done.
Spider Steady – Multi Config Camera Rig
Looks like a few new eBay sellers have picked up this unusual camera support item and now there's some promotional videos online. Folds up, folds out, with extremely large (too large?) handles that can configured into different style stabilizers such as a Shoulder rig, Fig Rig, DSLR Cage. Doesn't look like it can be positioned to get a DSLR with view finder loupe offset properly, but functions as a basic shoulder support with an external monitor attached. Above is the most recent video ad promoting this product labeling it as the 'Spider Steady'. Pricing is still less than desirable....
