From capturing fast-moving objects to identifying the focus point of the subject, autofocus has come a long way in recent years. It allows photographers to get that perfect shot with the proper field depth. However, autofocus fails to meet the requirement of professional photographers at times.
Photographers working in a fast-paced environment need speed and accuracy. Thus, a follow-focus system is a perfect solution in scenarios where autofocus fails to give you a steady shot.
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What Is A Follow Focus System & How It Works?
The following focus system is a complex mechanical filmmaking and video production device. The follow-focus kit, when attached to the camera or DSLR lenses, allows users to precisely control the focus of a camera lens during a shot. It enables professional photographers to maintain focus in their shots and achieve improved zoom control that surpasses the capabilities of a lens’s focus ring alone.
A follow-focus kit is usually made of the following components:
- A rail clamp
- An arm
- The camera
- A focus knob
- A set of lens gear rings
- Whit disc
Follow focus mode is primarily used when shooting with manual focus lenses or when precise and smooth focus adjustments are required. Filmmakers can control and manipulate the camera lens keeping the object sharp and clear by “pulling focus.”
Benefits of Using Follow Focus System
Although autofocus systems have closed the gap in recent years, nothing is more important than human intent when trying to capture a particular shot. The benefits of using follow-focus sets are numerous; the following are some of the most common:
Improved Videography:
- It helps avoid unwanted movement and shakiness.
- It allows a video maker to seamlessly transition focus between subjects within a scene, enhancing the visual appeal of the footage.
Shooting With a Shallow Depth of Field:
- The system enables precise control over focus adjustments, allowing photographers to achieve accurate and repeatable focus positions. This is particularly valuable for shots that require critical focus, such as close-ups or shallow depth-of-field compositions.
Smoother Workflow:
- Follow-focus modes often include a zoom control feature that helps adjust the zoom level of the lens. Photographers can achieve controlled zooming effects and frame their shots without directly touching the lens.
- Follow focus system also supports dual operator support. One operator focuses on camera movement while the other one handles focus adjustments. It further helps in achieving focus and sharpness during a shoot.
SmallRig’s Follow Focus Kits
Are you looking for a follow-focus system for creating high-quality videos and movies?
SmallRig has a range of follow-focus kits for filmmakers and photographers. These kits are compatible with a range of cameras and lenses. These kits are made of high-quality materials and can last throughout your shooting career. Here are some of the best follow-focus sets by SmallRig.
1. Manual Follow Focus
- The SmallRig mini follow focus is a manual focusing kit compatible with standard M0.8 analog and digital lenses.
- The kit supports four different mounting positions. It can be easily mounted on the camera’s right, left, bottom, and top rail or tripod, giving the photographer flexibility and convenience.
- The manual follow focus system has an adjustable, anti-slip AB Knob, which can instantly change the subjects’ focal length.
- Moreover, the kit is lightweight and portable. You can comfortably carry it all over the world and capture the best moments without losing your focus!
2. Handwheel + Motor
- The MagicFiz by SmallRig is a wireless follow-focus kit with a wireless handle-wheel controller. The system is designed to improve focus and precision during various shooting angles.
- The controller has a battery life of about 20h, whereas the handgrip controller can last up to 29h with a single charge.
- This follow-focus system supports video recording from a distance of up to 100m (328ft) using a remote control.
- With its 0.96″ OLED screen, the controller makes focus pulling quick, simple, and more accessible.
3. Handle + Motor
- The MagicFiz 3782 is a slightly upgraded version of MagicFiz 3781. The 3781 model has a wireless handwheel controller, while the 3782 model has a wireless handgrip. The handgrip has a simple, anti-twist, ergonomic design for a comfortable grip.
- The ultra-low-power OLED screen on the control vibrates when the battery runs low.
- The longer battery life, fast charging capacity, and carrying bag all make this SmallRig follow focus system the best product for all your shooting projects.
4. Handle + Handlewheel + Twin Motors
If you’re looking for greater filming precision, the MagicFiz wireless follow-focus system with twin motors is the perfect solution.
- MagicFIZ 3918 Follow focus set aims to provide photography teams with convenient and accurate follow focus options. The kit includes a shoulder rig adapter, handgrip adapter, and a monitor adapter, making hand-held and over-the-shoulder shooting quick, smooth, and precise.
- The kit includes a Wireless handwheel controller, a wireless handgrip, and a wireless receiver motor. The handwheel controller has a 1400mAh battery that lasts about 40 hours, allowing you to shoot everything in one go!
- The Wireless Handgrip is designed to work seamlessly with the Wireless Handwheel Controller, allowing for dual control of the Wireless Receiver Motor. It can also be used with an electronic control module for both wireless and cabled control of the Wireless Receiver Motor, providing flexibility of operation.
- The 0.96″ OLED screen, the RGB lighting effect, and the 0.5N.m torque output of the Wireless Receiver Motor make this follow-focus mode perfect for shooting long films and videos.
Conclusion
Keeping the subject in focus is critical if you want to create high-quality, appealing videos. With its high-quality, lightweight, and easy-to-use follow-focus systems, SmallRig makes your work easier and simpler. SmallRig offers superior-quality travel-friendly follow-focus kits compatible with various cameras and lenses from reputable brands. You can start shooting like a pro with your follow-focus system from SmallRig!
