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While many believed the drones would create a boom in economics and generate new companies, there are definitely clear winners and losers in the Drone Industry. Venture capitalists and other investors have started to pull back from funding new companies, early pop up drone companies have already filed bankruptcy, and others trying to step in to this space seem to be putting out drones that already feel outdated (sorry GoPro Karma).

With the new Phantom 4 Pro and Inspire 2, DJI has once again pushed the bar for what consumers can expect to have in the consumer drone products at consumer friendly prices. These new drones have major advancements in Design, Performance, Image Quality, Obstacle Avoidance, and Intelligent Flight Modes.

Phantom 4 Pro
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The DJI Phantom 4 Pro sports an upgraded camera is equipped with a 1-inch 20-megapixel sensor capable of shooting 4K/60fps video and Burst Mode stills at 14 fps. The FlightAutonomy system adds dual rear vision sensors and infrared sensing systems for a total of five-directions of obstacle sensing and four-directions of obstacle avoidance.

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A 5.5in 1080p screen integrated with the Phantom 4 Pro+ offers 1000 cd/m2 of brightness, more than twice as bright as conventional smart devices. It makes bright, vivid colors easily visible in direct sunlight. With this screen, a mobile device is not required, simplifying pre-flight preparations. As the DJI GO app is built into the screen, hardware and software can be fully optimized, further reducing video lag. Integration of an HDMI port, Micro-SD card slot, microphone, embedded loudspeaker, and Wi-Fi connection allow images to be edited inside DJI GO to be shared almost instantly. Lastly, a five-hour battery life makes the Phantom 4 Pro + a complete aerial imaging solution.... [Read More About the Phantom 4]

Inspire 2
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The new DJI Inspire 2 takes everything that was good about the Inspire 1 and improves it. An all-new image processing system records at up to 5.2K in CinemaDNG RAW, Apple ProRes and more. It goes from 0 to 50mph (80kph) in just 4 seconds and hits a maximum speed of 67mph (108kph) and has a max descent speed of 9m/s for unheard of speed and agility in an aircraft this size.

A dual battery system prolongs the flight time to a maximum of 27 minutes (with an X4S), while self-heating technology allows it to fly even in low temperatures. Flight Autonomy has been revised and developed specifically for the Inspire 2, providing two directions of obstacle avoidance and sensor redundancy. Increased intelligence adds multiple intelligent flight modes, including Spotlight Pro, giving even single pilots the ability to create complex, dramatic shots.

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Integrated into the Inspire 2 is the brand new CineCore 2.0 image processing system, capable of recording 5.2K videos in CinemaDNG*1, Apple ProRes*2 and more. CineCore 2.0 is built into the aircraft nose and works with any camera connected through the dedicated gimbal port. (Currently compatible with X4S*3 and X5S).

An upgraded video transmission system is now capable of dual signal frequency and dual channel, streaming video from an onboard FPV camera and the main camera simultaneously, for better pilot and camera operator collaboration....[Read more about the Inspire 2]

Available to Order Now

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diy-freefly-movi-pro-cinemilled-pro-ring-fig-rig

So the new Freefly systems Movi Pro Gimbal basically sits inside of a Fig Rig (as seen in top left photo). If you're looking to get similar functionality with your Came-TV Gimbals, they all come w/ Quick Release Adapters so that you can mount those gimbals to just about anything. Here's a basic PVC frame you can build for your small Optimus Gimbal or Mini-3 Gimbal that can offer similar function.

DIY Gimbal Fig Rig Stabilizer Frame
DIY Gimbal Fig Rig Stabilizer Frame

Using 1/2" PVC, the corners are made up of (2) 45 Degree elbows. Top handle is a T connector + (2) 90 Degree Elbows. The feet to keep it standing are (2) T connectors and some scrap PVC capped off. Basic bike grips used on sides and on top handle (bike grips work well on 1/2" PVC). No balance stand needed to set your gimbal down, and you still have a top handle and dual side handles. Decent for those smaller gimbal systems to allow you to hold and operate your camera as you would a Fig Rig stabilizer.


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Once you start shooting with a camera that has quality like the BlackMagic Design URSA Mini 4.6K, you'll want to be able to use it as much as you can. But because of it's size and weight, it's not an easy camera to fly on a gimbal for more than a few minutes. So it's time to add a Gimbal Support System to the mix.

While there are many different types of vests available, I decided to try out the Tilta Armorman 2 Exoskeleton Vest. While I prep this gear for an upcoming project, I thought I would share how the Tilta Armorman 2 (version 2) works, how the arms can be enabled / disabled during use, and how versatile it is to move a large gimbal around like the CAME-TV Prodigy.

If you're wondering why I chose the Tilta Armorman2 system, it's not that I believe it's better than anything else on the market, but it does work differently. You'll find a few systems that hang gimbals over your head. This may or may not cause more stress to your neck, shoulders, and lower back as it pulls you over.

The design of the Armorman 2 on the other hand have ISO arms that sit low and wraps around the sides of your body. Waist pads sit over the Pelvic bones transferring the weight to your hips similar to a Steadicam Vest (Your vest should sit more on the hips and not hanging from your shoulders). This has been a good standard for Steadicam operators for decades offering better posture and again transferring most of the weight off the lower spine.

Again, I can't say if it's better than other support systems on the market, but it's the one I prefer to use at the moment. Remember this is Tilta's version 2 Armorman, which was completely redesigned and easy for one person to manage. You can get more information about the Tilta Armorman 2 Gimbal Support Exoskeleton (here).

tilta-armorman-2-exoskeleton-gimbal-support
Learn-More-sm Tilta Armorman 2 Gimbal Support Vest Exoskeleton

For large camera setups, the new CAME-TV Prodigy Gimbal has more height, more width, and a deeper frame than a full size Ronin. I can easily fit the Ursa Mini 4.6K with a V-Mount battery mounted on the camera. You can find the new CAME-TV Prodigy (here).

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Learn-More-sm CAME-TV Prodigy 3-Axis Gimbal 32-Bit w/ Encoders

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Here's one new product from Zoom i've already went ahead and ordered. I've been looking at the Zoom F8 Multitrack Recorder for some time, but now that they have just announced this less expensive Zoom F4 Recorder with similar features as the F8, it's pretty much a done deal for me.

I also currently have all the various Modular Zoom Mic Capsules that I use with my Zoom H6, and the F4 allows me to continue to use them. What may not be clear is the Zoom H4 does have a 1/4" tripod mount underneath, and also comes with a Camera Mount Adapter. So you'll be able to use the Zoom F4 mounted under your camera (something I can't do with my H6). Available now (here).

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Learn-More-sm Zoom F4 Multitrack Recorder

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Here's an LED video light that has quickly become one of my favorites and i'm sure many of you may find useful. Especially because of it's design that makes traveling with a set of lights easier than ever.

The Kamerar Brightcast Variable 15 is a Bi-Color LED light that is flexible, rugged, and carries an IP67 Dust and Waterproof panel. The thin folding panel is lightweight, compact, and can be battery powered - making them extremely convenient and fast to setup.

The Kamerar Brightcast Variable 15 carries a 97 CRI rating, offers strong output, and bi-color temperature adjustment. Power cables allow the panel to operate away from the frame so that you can use them in much more creative ways you would not be able to do with traditional 1x1 panels.

The Kamerar Brightcast Variable 15 panels can also be joined together (using an optional adapter) to make a larger light source. These panels work great for interview setups as key or fill, and can quickly be diffused for softer light using the D-Fuse Instant Pop Up Softboxes.

Over the last few weeks, i've had the opportunity to use these lights. I have to say they definitely offer a lot of features and quality for the price along with the convenience of portability with the flexible design. For more information, check out the product page for the Kamerar Brightcast Variable 15 (found here).

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Learn-More-sm Kamerar Brightcast Variable 15 Flexible Bi-Color LED Light

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Like many, I was using Manfrotto Video Monopods such as the 561BHDV, but later started working with the Sirui P-204S for the option of the sturdy 'locking base'. But recently Manfrotto has started offering the new XPRO Fluid Panning Base that includes a Vertical Locking feature.

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The XPRO Video Monopods come in a few different flavors depending if you want Aluminum, Carbon Fiber, 4-Section, or a 5-Section and kits are available with or without a Video Head. These systems are fairly new and many websites haven't fully listed all the available options. The kit i've chosen is the MVMXPRO500US which is already available for purchase (found here).

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Learn-More-sm Manfrotto MVMXPRO500US XPRO Video Monopod with Locking Base

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The new Cinevate Duzi 4 uses a First Ever innovative flywheel design placed directly under the main carriage adding smooth inertial dampening without the use of cog belts and additional bulk. Here's a look at Cinevate CEO Dennis Wood running through some of the new features and now the new flywheel works to smooth out your video shots.

For more information about the new Cinevate Duzi V4 Slider, check out the product page at https://Cinevate.com

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Learn-More-sm Cinevate Duzi V4 Video Slider with OnBoard Flywheel

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Here's a product overview on the new Boltzen 55w and 30w LED Fresnel Video lights. What they come with, a run through some of the features, and few samples with Flood, Spot, and without the fresnel lens. Anyone working with hard spots like the Lowel Pro Lights, should really find these lights a joy.

The Boltzen 55w and 30w LED Fresnels are compact yet put out a good amount of power and the Fresnel lens has strong output even at a distance. The lights can be battery powered and stay cool to the touch (unlike pro lights), and you don't have to worry about fragile halogen bulbs burning out or breaking. You can use the lights without the fresnel lens for wider throw.

CAME-TV Boltzen LED Fresnel Light
CAME-TV Boltzen LED Fresnel Light

Keep in mind there are two things not seen in this video. First I didn't show the D-Tap cable which allows you to power these lights off of your V-Mount or Gold Mount batteries. They recently just added this D-tap Power cable as part of the standard kit, so anyone ordering one may have it in their case. Second is the Wifi control. There is a port on the back to which you will attach a wifi dongle. Then you can control it through a remote (or possibly iPhone app). This (optional) part was also not available yet during the making of this video.

CAME-TV Boltzen LED Fresnel Light
CAME-TV Boltzen LED Fresnel Light

If you're on a budget or super concerned about fan noise, the 30w is a great option. But personally I think the 55w is the way to go. The fan is barely audible from a short distance away. They 30w and 55w both share the same size. At this moment I think CAME-TV may be offering the smallest 55w LED Fresnel under $300 (cheaper when buying sets). I find these could be a perfect little compact hard light to keep in your kit.

For more information check out the product pages for the new Boltzen 55w and 30w LED Fresnel Lights (Found Here).

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Learn-More-sm CAME-TV Boltzen 55w 30w LED Fresnel Video Lights

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So I made a comparison video (below), but before you begin watching I want to clarify a few things. This test is nowhere near scientific when it comes to measuring CRI or Color accuracy, but it should be somewhat helpful when it comes to measuring the amount of light at a distance. Another thing I want to clear up is that this is not by any means a fair comparison as the CAME-TV 55w Boltzen LED Fresnel Light (found here) is measured with a Fresnel Lens while the Aputure COB120T (found here) was working bare.

By performing this test in this manner, hopefully it shows that a smaller light with less power can still be capable of outputting a decent amount of light at a distance over a more powerful light. Especially within the last few years, with cameras (i.e. Sony A7s, A7sII) that have better low light sensitivity, we can shoot with less powerful lighting kits. Ok, let's get to the video.

I would not say one light should be considered as a replacement over the other. There are major differences in size, weight, power, function, and price - two different types of lights. I would say having both the Aputure COB120T and CAME-TV Boltzen 55w Fresnels as part of your lighting kits can be beneficial!

Over the next few weeks, I'll be gathering more footage of these lights in actual use and putting up a more official review. But because I know brightness tests like these are what most people need to decide if the new 55w Boltzen LED Fresnels is something to consider, I wanted to at least get this basic test out there.

You can find the Aputure COB120T and new CAME-TV Boltzen LED Fresnels following the product links below.

Aputure COB120T LED Video Light

Learn-More-sm Aputure COB120T LED Video Light
CAME-TV Boltzen 55w LED Fresnel

Learn-More-sm CAME-TV Boltzen 55w LED Fresnel