A sixty-dollar solution
Posted by DocumentaryTech on June 18, 2011 · 2 Comments
Aftermarket accessories always seem ridiculously overpriced, and what appears to be a $60 spring may fit in. But, on the other hand, the DSLR Follow Focus from DSLR Solutions looks like a simple problem-solver that’s multiples less expensive than gear-driven follow-focus set-ups. We’ll keep an eye out to see if anyone has any luck with this.
“Zoom stick” devices like this have been around for a long time, but professional cine-lenses were tapped so the “stick” could just be screwed into the zoom or focus ring. Still lenses never needed them, till they started being used on DSLR’s. For those not “handy” this looks like a very elegant solution, light weight portable, etc. The “zoom stick” does not replace a geared follow-focus, but is a great compromise when you do not have an assistant to pull focus for you. I made two for my camera, one for zoom and one for focus, they work.
If you want a smooth look though, try the OKI II, usb follow focus for Canon bodies and auto focus lenses, or any of the available 15mm rail mounted (or not) geared units, though a bit slower to use if you are changing lenes or working alone, more kit for hand holding, but great for repetitive action on dramatic productions when you have talent that can hit their marks.
For Doc/industrial/news; the geared units are overkill for most shooters and the “zoom stick” should be considered.
M
Hi,
As a new-comer to the art of documentary filmmaking; please can someone give me a recommended ‘kit list’ for filming – as a two-man team? So far I only have the body of the Nikon D7000. That’s it !!
Cheers
M