DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

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timbutt2

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DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostWed Jun 15, 2022 9:49 pm

So DJI has managed to bring autofocus to manual cinema lenses with their LiDAR system paired with the new RS3 and RS3 Pro. I mean, you could do it with the RS2 as well, but it really shines with this new RS3 system.

Introduction Video:

Review Video:


The Pocket 6K Pro gets prominence in the second review video. I'll be curious to see what Blackmagic does next with their Pocket line now considering this tech. Or even with doing a box URSA Micro type camera.

Blackmagic doesn't need to build their own autofocus into their cameras when you have third party tools like this, and that's really cool! Definitely on my Wish List to get the RS3 Pro to play with in the future.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 16, 2022 12:43 am

I ordered a RS3 Pro Combo and wait to order the LIDAR Focus. I am very happy about this technology, so I can use my Blackmagic Cameras as well. I thought about to invest beside in a Ronin 4D 6k, but now this is not necessary.

I will also try to use my 12k on the RS3 Pro. The weight of my 12k is 2.55 kgs, my Xeen lens has 0,9 kgs and my SSD Recorder has 0,3 kg. My V-Mount Batteries will be on the Gimbal. I am very excited to test it out.

Normally I do not like Autofocus or Stabilisation, but some customers sometimes ask for these things, so now I can deliver without investing in a Ronin 4D System. Great JOB DJI.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 16, 2022 2:23 am

For me with stabilization I use a Steadicam or Slider/Dana Dolly with the URSA Mini Pro. But I wouldn’t mind a lighter set up stabilization system like the RS3 Pro for the Pocket.

For me I’d love to see an updated Pocket with that 4.6K G2 sensor since the rolling shutter on that was the best. Would be so nice for those fast moving gimbal shots.


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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 16, 2022 4:39 am

nicowieditz wrote:I ordered a RS3 Pro Combo and wait to order the LIDAR Focus… I will also try to use my 12k on the RS3 Pro... I am very excited to test it out... Great JOB DJI.


Happy for you so hoping it lives up to the promise of a great gimbal. Will be looking forward to real users’ reviews especially with regard to the LIDAR.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 16, 2022 12:18 pm

I used the release to snag a great deal on an RS2. Been want one for a long time now.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 16, 2022 8:09 pm

I noticed on DJI’s website they talk about using the LiDAR system off the gimbal with just a motor and a battery. I’m very excited to see how this will work
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostFri Jun 17, 2022 12:25 am

Agree, not sure about the accuracy at various distances, but probably good value. DJI claims 1% up to a point and then 3%. Looking forward to learning more from real users when the dust has settled.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSat Jun 18, 2022 2:06 pm

So glad I held off buying a gimbal the last couple times the desire struck me, because this just about seems the perfect jumping in point for me... provided it doesn't crap the bed once it hits a wider user base.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSat Jun 18, 2022 6:06 pm

In one of the reviews of the LiDAR focus it was shown that when used with manual lenses there are only set points at 1m and 4m. That’s really not enough for accuracy through the whole range, especially if the subject gets closer than 1m.
Shown near the end of this video
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSat Jun 18, 2022 9:01 pm

Will be interesting to read comments from someone who uses the Preston Light Ranger 2. Different price range and focus workflow but that review would help separate hype from reality.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSun Jun 19, 2022 11:07 am

Jamie LeJeune wrote:In one of the reviews of the LiDAR focus it was shown that when used with manual lenses there are only set points at 1m and 4m. That’s really not enough for accuracy through the whole range, especially if the subject gets closer than 1m.
Shown near the end of this video
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwjdwfO-y7f4AhUMEEQIHWtAC6sQtwJ6BAgHEAI&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DiaADpDyfxQ0&usg=AOvVaw2NwBSTQn-HBBQAC991jteQ



Let's see what will happen with the final firmware of the Lidar Focus. If you go closer than 1m you alternatively can turn on the focus wheel to correct it manually without turning off the Lidar AF. This is also a great feature I love on the 4D and I am quite sure that it will happen on the RS-Lidar Focus, too.

Honestly, I am hyped, because I am looking for a possibility to have Autofocus for some shoots with my Cinema lenses. I tested the 4D and some Sony Cameras and I do not like the filmic look of Sony Fx3 or Fx6 or A7 SIII. I wish to use it on my Pocket and 12k.

There is no perfect system for all needs in this price range, but much better choices than all before. Depends on what you or your customer needs.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSun Jun 19, 2022 6:47 pm

Well, despite the reviews saying there are focus issues below 1 meter the technology is still extremely exciting. Just imagine where it will be in 2 years. Then think about 5 years.

I really hope that the next Blackmagic Cameras take advantage of this third party tech existing.


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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Jun 20, 2022 4:19 pm

nicowieditz wrote:I will also try to use my 12k on the RS3 Pro. The weight of my 12k is 2.55 kgs, my Xeen lens has 0,9 kgs and my SSD Recorder has 0,3 kg. My V-Mount Batteries will be on the Gimbal. I am very excited to test it out.


Looking forward to your tests! Please post some pics if you get the setup working. ;) I too have the 12K and would like to use it on a gimbal. Been thinking about the Crane 3 but prefer the DJI ecosystem…
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Jun 20, 2022 7:44 pm

Looking forward to your tests! Please post some pics if you get the setup working. ;) I too have the 12K and would like to use it on a gimbal. Been thinking about the Crane 3 but prefer the DJI ecosystem…[/quote]

I worked with the Crane 3s and tried to put the 12k and took some shoots with my 6k on this gimbal, but the Crane 3s is not so perfect and sometimes wobbling absolutely out of control.

I balanced everything; for 10 minutes everything worked fine and then during the shoot the crane 3s was going out of control. Zhiyun tried to help me with this issue, but it does not work, so I decided to switch to the RS2 and it was the best decision for my gimbal work until today.

I hope it will work with the RS3 Pro and my 12k with the lightweight Xeen CF lenses. I will make a step by step video of it.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSat Jun 25, 2022 8:02 pm

timbutt2 wrote:Well, despite the reviews saying there are focus issues below 1 meter the technology is still extremely exciting. Just imagine where it will be in 2 years. Then think about 5 years.

I really hope that the next Blackmagic Cameras take advantage of this third party tech existing.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk


I'm hoping that the system improves in such a way that it communicates directly with the camera and does autofocus with motor powered lens without the need for a follow focus
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Jul 25, 2022 2:36 pm

12k_rig.jpg
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Today I built up my rig and yes, it works. The full test I release next week. Believe me, it is a question of counterweights, but it works stable. And yes, it is heavy. The Formfactor of the BMD12k made it a bit difficult.

Here is a photo of the rig - it looks like an adventure.
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DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Jul 25, 2022 3:36 pm

Very impressive, Nico! Thanks for the photo and we all can’t wait for the release of your test videos. Would be a bonus if that includes a BTS clip showing you operating the rig.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Jul 25, 2022 4:35 pm

rick.lang wrote:Very impressive, Nico! Thanks for the photo and we all can’t wait for the release of your test videos. Would be a bonus if that includes a BTS clip showing you operating the rig.


Rick, the operating method is a good question. (laughing) Bodybuilder can do it by handheld, but for me it only works with a Rig-Vest overhead, the Tilta Ring is perfect for that operation method. As I said it is a small adventure.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Jul 25, 2022 6:06 pm

nicowieditz wrote:… for me it only works with a Rig-Vest overhead, the Tilta Ring is perfect for that operation method...


That’s a relief to hear! My wife could manage it, but I’d need to follow your method for sure.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Jul 25, 2022 7:04 pm

nicowieditz wrote:
12k_rig.jpg
Today I built up my rig and yes, it works. The full test I release next week. Believe me, it is a question of counterweights, but it works stable. And yes, it is heavy. The Formfactor of the BMD12k made it a bit difficult.

Here is a photo of the rig - it looks like an adventure.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostTue Oct 04, 2022 1:21 am

nicowieditz wrote:
12k_rig.jpg
Today I built up my rig and yes, it works. The full test I release next week. Believe me, it is a question of counterweights, but it works stable. And yes, it is heavy. The Formfactor of the BMD12k made it a bit difficult.

Here is a photo of the rig - it looks like an adventure.


How did this end up going? Is there any vodeo?
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostWed Oct 05, 2022 12:16 am

I used the Rs3 pro with lidar, BMPCC 4k, and Anamorphic setup using a Kowa 16H and 28mm voigtlander, on this one man solo shot short.
It works fantastic.
Especially when shooting in low light settings where using focus speaking to really get focus is almost impossible.

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0972296/
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostWed Oct 05, 2022 12:23 am

Good to know how did you set your lidar distance without the focal plane mark?
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostWed Oct 05, 2022 12:39 am

cj-adams wrote:Good to know how did you set your lidar distance without the focal plane mark?


What do you mean?
cj-adams wrote:Good to know how did you set your lidar distance without the focal plane mark?
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0972296/
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostWed Oct 05, 2022 1:16 am

There is a step in the calibration process that requires the distance from the focal plane to the front of the lidar unit to properly calibrate it. Please see the photo that I have attached
The Pocket 6k doesn't have the focal plane mark ...i don't think the 4k does either...i don't know if the 6kpro or g2 does either. Searching online doesn't help best suggestion i got was in one forum post about using the flange distance from the EF mount specs. We really need BMD to chime in on this. Not having a proper measuring point on a so called cinema camera seems to be a big oversight.



BB6F6E02-61FC-47A3-999B-6A0F97D92153.jpeg
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostWed Oct 05, 2022 1:36 am

cj-adams wrote:There is a step in the calibration process that requires the distance from the focal plane to the front of the lidar unit to properly calibrate it. Please see the photo that I have attached
The Pocket 6k doesn't have the focal plane mark ...i don't think the 4k does either...i don't know if the 6kpro or g2 does either. Searching online doesn't help best suggestion i got was in one forum post about using the flange distance from the EF mount specs. We really need BMD to chime in on this. Not having a proper measuring point on a so called cinema camera seems to be a big oversight.



BB6F6E02-61FC-47A3-999B-6A0F97D92153.jpeg


Ah, that. I measured with a caliper from the sensor to figure out on the body where the sensor is. And that's where I measure from. It's in line with one of the three buttons on the front of the body. I think it's the center one. But I'll let you know later this evening.
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0972296/
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostWed Oct 05, 2022 6:34 pm

The PCC6K Pro does have the mark.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostWed Oct 05, 2022 7:30 pm

Robert Niessner wrote:The PCC6K Pro does have the mark.


Support indicates:

The distance from the sensor to the mount is 35mm.

So would this mean if i measured from the metal mount forward and add 35 i would get the number i need?
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Nov 07, 2022 7:49 pm

Anybody figure out the sensor plane info for the 6k pocket?
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Nov 07, 2022 9:00 pm

dsbnola wrote:Anybody figure out the sensor plane info for the 6k pocket?


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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon Nov 07, 2022 9:02 pm

dsbnola wrote:Anybody figure out the sensor plane info for the 6k pocket?


Well i think i did it right.. I basically did what support said..
Started at the metal mount and then subtract 35mm Should be the focal plane...- then add or subtract depending on if your in front of or behind that point.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostMon May 15, 2023 11:05 am

So, if I'm reading this directly-the focal plane on the 6K Pro is 35mm + whatever distance DJI Lidar front is from the metal mount of the camera?
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostTue May 16, 2023 9:08 pm

Uri1977 wrote:So, if I'm reading this directly-the focal plane on the 6K Pro is 35mm + whatever distance DJI Lidar front is from the metal mount of the camera?

viewtopic.php?f=2&t=119957#p897067
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSat May 27, 2023 6:16 pm

What if you decided that you should forget about your set of manual focus lenses and buy a Panasonic LUMIX S5 IIx Camera w/ Lumix S 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens, and switch to the L mount AF lens ecosystem? Now that Panasonic has Phase Detect Auto Focus, you can shoot video while running with your camera!

How would you feel if you then found out that a 40 year old manual focus lens that costs a couple of hundred dollars had better continuous auto focus on your old cinema camera than your new system has in a simultaneous side by side shootout?

u/Restlesstonight wrote:

"Quick test what new auto focus solution can do… and what not. PDAF auto focus of the upcoming Panasonic Lumix S5IIx versus the mighty Arri Alexa fitted with a DJI LiDAR focus module (RS 3 Pro is folded and attached to the side of the Alexa M head). Purposefully trying to irritate the systems by walking out of the frame, covering the face, turning away and so on. Both systems have their strengths and weaknesses."

S5IIxLumix20_60TopALEXAXT-MCanonFD35BottomG.png
Panasonic S5IIx LUMIX S 20-60mm Top, Alexa Canon FD 35mm SSC Bottom
S5IIxLumix20_60TopALEXAXT-MCanonFD35BottomG.png (971.99 KiB) Viewed 25525 times

S5IIxLumix20_60TopALEXAXT-MCanonFD35Bottom.png
Panasonic S5IIx LUMIX S 20-60mm Top, Alexa Canon FD 35mm SSC Bottom
S5IIxLumix20_60TopALEXAXT-MCanonFD35Bottom.png (855.92 KiB) Viewed 25525 times

S5IIxLumix20_60TopALEXAXT-MCanonFD35BottomE.png
Panasonic S5IIx LUMIX S 20-60mm Top, Alexa Canon FD 35mm SSC Bottom
S5IIxLumix20_60TopALEXAXT-MCanonFD35BottomE.png (924.34 KiB) Viewed 25525 times

r/Filmmakers Auto Focus Battle. Phase detection AF vs LiDAR AF. LUMIX S5IIx vx ALEXA XT-M. Vintage vs Modern…… FIGHT!

https://www.reddit.com/r/Filmmakers/com ... _lidar_af/

r/videography It's a kind of magic! Active Track and Auto Focus Arri Alexa using a DJI RS3 Pro/LiDAR

https://www.reddit.com/r/videography/co ... uto_focus/
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSat May 27, 2023 7:21 pm

With a purported range of 14m, the DJI LIDAR looks good for most indie narrative work and with a price under $700, it’s in reach of most people’s budgets. I could’ve even find the price of the Preston Light Ranger 2M/2W as you need to call to get a quote. Of course they’re both one component but there’s a whole ecosystem to wrap around them when rigged.

Suddenly that Panasonic S5IIX doesn’t seem like the perfect solution to anyone wanting a new hybrid camera with Auto Focus/Tracking.
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DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 01, 2023 7:48 pm

rick.lang wrote:
Suddenly that Panasonic S5IIX doesn’t seem like the perfect solution to anyone wanting a new hybrid camera with Auto Focus/Tracking.
If you overlook the weight and size and time to setup the whole gimbal rig compared to the size and speed of a mirrorless pdaf hybrid camera that is…
I still am curious in a head to head comparison between the original dji rs2 LiDAR af system vs this new one on the rs3pro which costs more than double the price, I’m not sure it is worth the difference.
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 01, 2023 8:02 pm

evanfotis wrote:
rick.lang wrote:
Suddenly that Panasonic S5IIX doesn’t seem like the perfect solution to anyone wanting a new hybrid camera with Auto Focus/Tracking.
If you overlook the weight and size and time to setup the whole gimbal rig compared to the size and speed of a mirrorless pdaf hybrid camera that is…
I still am curious in a head to head comparison between the original dji rs2 LiDAR af system vs this new one on the rs3pro which costs more than double the price, I’m not sure it is worth the difference.


I have both.
The new one is definitely worth the upgrade
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0972296/
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Michel Rabe

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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 01, 2023 8:34 pm

Henchman wrote:
I have both.
The new one is definitely worth the upgrade


what differences did you notice?
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 01, 2023 8:34 pm

Michel Rabe wrote:
Henchman wrote:
I have both.
The new one is definitely worth the upgrade


what differences did you notice?

Being able to switch between subjects.
And tracking a subject.
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0972296/
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Michel Rabe

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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 01, 2023 9:36 pm

I see, thanks. Is that due to the newer Lidar module or the whole system/software?
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 01, 2023 9:51 pm

Michel Rabe wrote:I see, thanks. Is that due to the newer Lidar module or the whole system/software?

The whole system /software
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0972296/
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostThu Jun 01, 2023 10:08 pm

Henchman wrote:
Michel Rabe wrote:
Henchman wrote:
I have both.
The new one is definitely worth the upgrade


what differences did you notice?

Being able to switch between subjects.
And tracking a subject.



Thoughts about this vs mirrorless dual pixel af ? i know in darkness lidar has it totally beat but ..compared in normal conditions run and gun?
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evanfotis

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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostFri Jun 02, 2023 5:26 pm

Henchman wrote:And tracking a subject.

Does the RS2 not track? I’ve seen it in videos doing it. Center frame
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostFri Jun 02, 2023 6:01 pm

evanfotis wrote:
Henchman wrote:And tracking a subject.

Does the RS2 not track? I’ve seen it in videos doing it. Center frame

But the lidar can track even when it's not center frame
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0972296/
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSat Jun 10, 2023 10:12 pm

I'm glad that Blackmagic has not invested millions in developing auto focus with a line of proprietary lenses that might not deliver what we want.

u/IntelligentSignature wrote:

"…TLDR: I'm missing focus on lots of shots. Am I doing something wrong or do I have unrealistic expectations. Or is the AF still not good on lumix cameras and I made a bad decision and should return it.

First of all I would like to preface this by saying that I have very little experience with Mirrorless cameras so I might be doing something wrong or I might have unrealistic expectations. So I just got lumix S5 II and sigma 24-70. But I'm continuously missing focus on moving objects. I noticed this when I tried to photograph people on bikes, mind you these were people on bicycles and motorbikes which are just starting from intersection, so no motorsport thingy. These were my settings Aperture priority, human detection on, and custom AF mode set to 3( which is supposedly good for things moving with unpredictable speed). I posted about this on r/lumix as well but I didn't get a good response apart from someone suggesting s5 II is not a sports camera, and to check if I was on C-AF. These were multiple quick bursts throughout the day so I can't be sure if it was indeed C-AF. So to make sure I again checked all my settings and kept my camera on C-AF all the time but I didn't quite get a similar opportunity but today when I was out and casually taking some photos I realized this is happening for people just moving around as well. I also switched my settings to default AF mode kept C-AF on and started testing again. This time I'm pretty sure I was on C-aF. In the attached images the green box shows where the camera focussed, some of these are in slightly dark conditions but to my understanding the subjects had enough light.

My question is, is this common for all cameras or I'm an idiot and don't know what I'm doing or lumix s5ii is missing focus for some reason. Some of these shots subjects weren't even moving. None of these are in burst mode.

…No tap to focus these were all on full area mode."

LumixS5IISigma24_70.png
lumix S5 II and sigma 24-70
LumixS5IISigma24_70.png (979 KiB) Viewed 23299 times

LumixS5IISigma24_70A.png
lumix S5 II and sigma 24-70
LumixS5IISigma24_70A.png (727.32 KiB) Viewed 23299 times

r/Cameras Is this normal or should I return lumix s5 II

https://www.reddit.com/r/Cameras/commen ... mix_s5_ii/
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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSun Jun 11, 2023 4:08 am

I'd say they are simply not at the same level as Canon and Sony.
No, an iGPU is not enough, and you can't use HEVC 10 bit 4:2:2 in the free version.

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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSun Jun 11, 2023 9:39 am

Personally I only like autofocus for stills on my mirrorless. Or a sit down interview... but with the interview situation at the moment I don' use the mirrorless.

For real production purposes I've found autofocus is not ready for prime time. I used the Ronin 4D on a shoot recently and was annoyed by the autofocus. I told someone get on and pull focus with the tools. They were not a proper AC who could do it, but it was still better than autofocus because they could at least hit the marks I wanted, even if they were slower or slightly less accurate. I cut around in post to make it work.

And, this goes with autofocus is ruining people. They can't pull focus themselves. They're useless, and that's why I think autofocus should not be the default. If you never learn to pull focus yourself then you will never be on a professional set. Don't rely on autofocus. You are worthless to me on set if you don't know the proper art of focusing manually.
"I'm well trained in the art of turning **** to gold." - Tim Buttner (timbutt2)

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Re: DJI RS3 & RS3 Pro Bring Autofocus to Cinema Lenses

PostSun Jun 11, 2023 2:48 pm

timbutt2 wrote:Personally I only like autofocus for stills on my mirrorless. Or a sit down interview... but with the interview situation at the moment I don' use the mirrorless.

For real production purposes I've found autofocus is not ready for prime time. I used the Ronin 4D on a shoot recently and was annoyed by the autofocus. I told someone get on and pull focus with the tools. They were not a proper AC who could do it, but it was still better than autofocus because they could at least hit the marks I wanted, even if they were slower or slightly less accurate. I cut around in post to make it work.

And, this goes with autofocus is ruining people. They can't pull focus themselves. They're useless, and that's why I think autofocus should not be the default. If you never learn to pull focus yourself then you will never be on a professional set. Don't rely on autofocus. You are worthless to me on set if you don't know the proper art of focusing manually.

We'll, for single crew guerrilla filmmakers it's an amazing tool
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0972296/

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