Focus Check

ep97 - Discussion of all Lab Tests of 2025, Annual Lab Test Breakdown - CineD Focus Check

In this episode, we break down all the camera lab tests of 2025 and give you a clear overview of which cameras stood out — and which ones fell a bit short.
Nino and Gunther go through all seven cameras we tested, sharing key insights, surprises, and takeaways from this year’s results.
Hit play and join us for a deep dive into the cameras that shaped 2025.
Chapters and Articles in This Episode
(00:00) - Intro
 
(03:18) - Evolution vs Revolution in 2025 Camera Tests
 
(08:40) - Canon EOS C400 Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/canon-eos-c400-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
 
(13:14) - Canon EOS R5 Mark II Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/canon-eos-r5-mark-ii-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
 
(17:17) - Canon EOS R1 Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/canon-eos-r1-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
 
(20.44) - Panasonic LUMIX S1II Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range, and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/panasonic-lumix-s1ii-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
 
(34:08) - Nikon ZR Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range, and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/nikon-zr-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
 
(45:35) - Sony FX2 Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/sony-fx2-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
 
(53:38) - Blackmagic PYXIS 12K Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-pyxis-12k-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
We hope you enjoyed this episode! You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep96 - Why Roger Deakins Is Right About AI (And Everyone's Missing It) with Tal Lazar - CineD Focus Check

In this special episode of the CineD FocusCheck Podcast, host Nino welcomes back filmmaker, educator, and author Tal Lazar for a wide-ranging conversation about what cinematography really is — and what it needs to become in an age of rapidly evolving technology.
Tal’s new book, Cinematography: Beyond Technique, challenges a long-standing assumption in filmmaking: that mastering cameras, lenses, and lighting is enough. Drawing on over 15 years of teaching at institutions such as AFI, Sundance, and FilmLab, Tal argues that cinematography lives in the space between intention and execution — not in technology itself.
Together, Nino and Tal explore:
Why great images don’t automatically make great films
How directors and cinematographers often talk past each other on set
What blocking rehearsals reveal about hidden gaps in film education
Why lenses, lighting, and framing are storytelling tools — not technical checklists
And how AI forces filmmakers to re-examine creative intention, not just workflow
The conversation also tackles one of today’s most controversial topics: AI in filmmaking. Referencing recent statements by Roger Deakins and drawing parallels to the Canon 5D revolution, Tal explains why resisting new tools outright is rarely productive — but why giving up creative intention is far more dangerous.
This episode is not about choosing sides between “traditional” and “modern” filmmaking. It’s about understanding the language of images deeply enough to make deliberate, meaningful choices — regardless of the tools involved.
Whether you’re a director, cinematographer, producer, or educator, this episode offers a thoughtful, practical perspective on collaboration, visual storytelling, and the future of the craft.
Chapters and Articles in This Episode
(00:00:57) – Welcome & Introduction Nino welcomes viewers to the special episode and introduces Tal Lazar and the topic of his new book.
(00:02:06) – Tal Lazar, Cinematography Beyond Technique & Teaching Background Tal’s background as a filmmaker and educator and how the book grew out of 15 years of teaching.
(00:05:35) – Visual Storytelling, “The Reading,” and Cinematic Intention Using painting and visual examples to explain how audiences identify story and main characters.
(00:09:02) – What Makes a Great Cinematographer Technical skill, clarity of intention, communication, and common misunderstandings on set.
(00:14:13) – Directors, DPs, and Collaboration on Set Blocking rehearsals, overlapping responsibilities, and why collaboration improves films.
(00:20:45) – How Directors and Cinematographers Should Communicate What productive creative conversations sound like versus ineffective ones.
(00:25:31) – Lighting and Lenses as Storytelling Tools Lighting as observation and language; lenses, perspective, intimacy, and emotional distance.
(00:38:19) – AI, Roger Deakins, and Creative Intention AI as a tool versus a threat, and what reactions reveal about how cinematography is understood.
(00:49:45) – Lessons from the Canon 5D Era & the Future of AI Parallels between past camera revolutions and today’s AI-driven changes.
(01:13:51) – Practical Advice & Key Takeaways How filmmakers should embrace technology without sacrificing intention; final thoughts and wrap-up.
We hope you enjoyed this episode! You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep95 - Nexus G1 Explained, A Conversation with the Camera’s Creators : The Most Ambitious Cinema Camera Yet? CineD Focus Check

For this week's episode on the CineD Focus Check podcast, Nino speaks with special guests Timothy and Thomas Boland from Nexus Camera about how the Nexus G1 came to life — and what it’s trying to solve for solo operators and small crews.
They share their background in industrial design and filmmaking, why rigging and workflow friction pushed them toward building their own camera, and how they approached key features such as a modular electronic ND system, expanded I/O and power distribution, integrated lens-control ideas, materials and cooling design, and a service plan for repairs and warranty.
Nino also asks the questions many people have been wondering about: how Nexus works with Blackmagic Design as an authorized dealer, how the economics of sourcing hardware are handled, and what changed in the timeline as the project moved toward manufacturing.
Toward the end, the team reveals a notable update on lens adaptability and discusses what’s next—including future accessories and software expansion.
(00:00) - Intro
(01:39) - The origin story of the Nexus G1
(06:32) - Meet the founders of Nexus, Thomas and Timothy
(09:51) - The relationship between Blackmagic Design and Nexus
(13:09) - Technical details of the Nexus G1
(19:28) - Camera body materials and thermal design
(24:44) - Connectivity options of the Nexus G1
(31:17) - Lens mount system on the Nexus G1
(32:21) - Roadmap for the camera launch
(33:58) - How does the warranty process work with the Nexus G1?
(39:38) - The current sensor in the Nexus G1 and potential future upgrades
(48:14) - What would they do differently if they could start from scratch?
(51:46) - Rapid-fire questions for the creators
(59:31) - Power efficiency of the Nexus G1
(01:03:03) - Unveiling the new update for the Nexus G1
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode!Do you have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep94 - Netflix vs. Paramount Bidding War, Sony’s 200MP Sensor, Tilta AF Adapter & The Steve Jobs Story Behind the "Ken Burns Effect"

As many of you have probably heard, two giants in Hollywood are now competing to merge with one another. Netflix is attempting to acquire Warner Bros., while Paramount has also submitted its own bid for the company. But what does this actually mean, especially for filmmakers? Nino and Johnnie break it down in detail in this episode, along with a range of other compelling topics.
 
Chapters and Articles in This Episode
(00:00) - Intro
(01:02) - Netflix Acquires Warner Bros. Discovery for $83 Billion – Streaming Giant’s Business Model Poses Existential Threat to Theatrical Exhibition
https://www.cined.com/netflix-acquires-warner-bros-discovery-for-83-billion-streaming-giants-business-model-poses-existential-threat-to-theatrical-exhibition/
(24:26) - Death of the Triple-Camera Phone? Sony LYTIA 901 Sensor Does 4x Zoom Without Extra Lenses
https://www.cined.com/death-of-the-triple-camera-phone-sony-lytia-901-sensor-does-4x-zoom-without-extra-lenses/
(36:20) - Mavis Camera Introduces Film Kit – LUT Workflows, Open Gate Capture, and Apple Log 2 Support
https://www.cined.com/mavis-camera-introduces-film-kit-lut-workflows-open-gate-capture-and-apple-log-2-support/
(39:40) - DIGILOG Camera iPhone App Brings Kodak 500T Film-Inspired Look, Open-Gate ProRes Recording, Free Download
https://www.cined.com/digilog-camera-iphone-app-brings-kodak-500t-film-inspired-look-open-gate-prores-recording-free-download/
(42:27) - Tilta Nucleus Auto Focus Adapter Explained – Unlock the Full Potential of Every Manual Lens
https://www.cined.com/tilta-nucleus-auto-focus-adapter-explained-unlock-the-full-potential-of-every-manual-lens/
(51:02) - Middle Control 3 Pro Brings Sony Camera Control to Blackmagic ATEM Switchers
https://www.cined.com/middle-control-3-pro-brings-sony-camera-control-to-blackmagic-atem-switchers/
(56:45) - The Story Behind the Ken Burns Effect: How a Phone Call From Steve Jobs Made Documentary’s Most Influential Technique a Household Name
https://www.cined.com/the-story-behind-the-ken-burns-effect-how-a-phone-call-from-steve-jobs-made-documentarys-most-influential-technique-a-household-name/
(01:02:44) - Audiio Voices Introduced – Record Your Voiceover and Transform It into a Professional Style
https://www.cined.com/audiio-voices-introduced-record-your-voiceover-and-transform-it-into-a-professional-style/
(01:06:17) - Imagen AI Introduces Adaptable AI Color Grading, Free Beta Access, and More
https://www.cined.com/imagen-ai-introduces-adaptable-ai-color-grading-free-beta-access-and-more/
(01:09:12) - fylm.ai Update – Adds Adobe Premiere Extension for Seamless Collaboration and Full Remote Grading
https://www.cined.com/fylm-ai-update-adds-adobe-premiere-extension-for-seamless-collaboration-and-full-remote-grading/
(01:12:42) - Apple Vision Pro Strategy For Immersive Video Production: Live Sports, Static Foveation, And Monetization Challenges
https://www.cined.com/apple-vision-pro-strategy-for-immersive-video-production-live-sports-static-foveation-and-monetization-challenges/
(01:17:00) - Cartoni Ragno Pod Announced – Portable Tripod Riser with 100kg Payload, 629mm Elevation
https://www.cined.com/cartoni-ragno-pod-announced-portable-tripod-riser-with-100kg-payload-629mm-elevation/
(01:20:04) - ZILR ZIPR Introduced – An E-Powered K.I.T. Cart for Production Mobility
https://www.cined.com/zilr-zipr-introduced-an-e-powered-k-i-t-cart-for-production-mobility/
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode! You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep93 - Sony a7 V Announced | Poll: Camera of the Year 2025 | ARRI Cuts 150 Jobs | CineD Focus Check

As the year slowly comes to an end, so do the camera releases—but there was one last long-awaited announcement that just hit the market. Sony has officially unveiled the newest successor in the Alpha 7 series: the Sony A7 Mark V.
Nino and Johnnie take a closer look at this newly announced camera, and alongside the news, they dive into a discussion about what might become the Camera of the Year 2025—plus many more exciting topics.
So as always, hit that play button and tune in on YouTube or on your favorite podcast platform!
This episode is sponsored by SIRUI — check out their new lenses at 36:14
Chapters and Articles in This Episode
(00:00) - Intro and overview
 
(04:26) - Sony a7 V Announced – 33MP Partially-Stacked Sensor, 30fps Blackout-Free Shooting, 4K120p Video in APS-C
https://www.cined.com/sony-a7-v-announced-33mp-partially-stacked-sensor-30fps-blackout-free-shooting-4k120p-video/
 
(22:56) - Sony Suspends a7 IV Firmware Update 6.00 Following Widespread Camera Malfunctions
https://www.cined.com/sony-suspends-a7-iv-firmware-update-6-00-following-widespread-camera-malfunctions/
 
(37:01) - Poll: Camera of the Year 2025 – Have Your Say!
https://www.cined.com/poll-camera-of-the-year-2025-have-your-say/
 
(56:21) - ARRI Cuts 150 Jobs and Closes Two German Facilities Amid Ongoing Production Decline
https://www.cined.com/arri-cuts-150-jobs-and-closes-two-german-facilities-amid-ongoing-production-decline/
 
(01:01:29) - The AI Copyright War Just Got Real – OpenAI Ordered to Reveal Deleted Evidence
https://www.cined.com/the-ai-copyright-war-just-got-real-openai-ordered-to-reveal-deleted-evidence/
 
(01:05:20) - New Lesson on Sora 2 is Out Now – Brainstorming Ideas and Storyboarding + Black Friday Offers
https://www.cined.com/new-lesson-on-sora-2-is-out-now-brainstorming-ideas-and-storyboarding-black-friday-offers/
 
(01:08:28) - HAL Picture Diachromie and Diaphanie Color Grading Look and Texture Plugins – Comprehensive Overview
https://www.cined.com/hal-picture-diachromie-and-diaphanie-color-grading-look-and-texture-plugins-comprehensive-overview/
 
(01:13:29) - Dedo Weigert, Oscar-Winning Lighting Pioneer, Dies at 87
https://www.cined.com/dedo-weigert-oscar-winning-lighting-pioneer-dies-at-87/
 
(01:19:18) - DaVinci Resolve 20.3 Released – 32K Support on Apple M5, Timeline Snapshots, Metadata Improvements
https://www.cined.com/davinci-resolve-20-3-released-32k-support-on-apple-m5-timeline-snapshots-metadata-improvements/
 
(01:27:21) - MZed Pro Black Friday Sale EXTENDED! Lock In $199 for 850+ Filmmaking Lessons Before This Once-a-Year Deal Ends
https://www.cined.com/mzed-pro-black-friday-sale-lock-in-199-for-850-filmmaking-lessons-before-this-once-a-year-deal-ends/
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode! You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep92 - MZed Pro Black Friday Deal | LUMIX Firmware Updates | Nexus G1 Footage Released | CineD Focus Check

Exciting news at the CineD Newsroom! This week, we’re talking about some rare, once-a-year offers on our MZed platform, and Nino and Johnnie share why now is the perfect time to grab an MZed subscription.
We also take a look at the latest updates on the Nexus G1, including new sample footage. Another big topic in this episode is LUMIX: the company has just released firmware updates claiming to address the overheating issues in the recently introduced LUMIX S1 V2 series.
Johnnie brings insights straight from Japan and shares his thoughts on the latest Adobe Premiere updates.
Join us for this week’s conversation and stay up to date with everything happening in the world of cine tech!
 
This episode is sponsored by SIRUI — check out their new lenses at (29:49).
 
Chapters and Articles in This Episode
(00:00) - Intro and overview
(05:20) - MZed Pro Black Friday Sale: Lock In $199 for 850+ Filmmaking Lessons Before This Once-a-Year Deal Ends
https://www.cined.com/mzed-pro-black-friday-sale-lock-in-199-for-850-filmmaking-lessons-before-this-once-a-year-deal-ends
(20:50) - Nexus G1 Cinema Camera Now Operational With First Test Footage Released
https://www.cined.com/nexus-g1-cinema-camera-now-operational-with-first-test-footage-released/
(30:35) - Panasonic LUMIX S1II, S1IIE, and S1RII Firmware Updates Fix Overheating and Add New Features
https://www.cined.com/panasonic-lumix-s1ii-s1iie-and-s1rii-firmware-updates-fix-overheating-and-add-new-features/
(41:28) - Global Memory Shortage 2026: What Filmmakers Need To Know About Rising NAND, DRAM, and SSD Prices
https://www.cined.com/global-memory-shortage-2026-what-filmmakers-need-to-know-about-rising-nand-dram-and-ssd-prices/
(48:32) - Shooting Apple Immersive Video in the Swiss Alps with the Blackmagic URSA Cine Immersive
https://www.cined.com/shooting-apple-immersive-video-in-the-swiss-alps-with-the-blackmagic-ursa-cine-immersive/
(52:11) - Libec Launches Arca-Swiss Travel Tripod – 2.7kg, 3kg Payload, Sub-$200 Price
https://www.cined.com/libec-launches-arca-swiss-travel-tripod-2-7kg-3kg-payload-sub-200-price/
(01:02:55) - Panomicron Bismuth 50mm f/2.8 1.5x Anamorphic Lens Expands to the M-Mount
https://www.cined.com/panomicron-bismuth-50mm-f-2-8-1-5x-anamorphic-lens-expands-to-the-m-mount/
(01:06:32) - Adobe Premiere Pro 25.6.1 Adds Native Nikon N-RAW Support and New AI Tools
https://www.cined.com/adobe-premiere-pro-25-6-1-adds-native-nikon-n-raw-support-and-new-ai-tools/
(01:18:05) - Module 8 MOOD Hypnotic Sony E-Mount Tuner Announced – Optical Character For Modern Glass
https://www.cined.com/module-8-mood-hypnotic-sony-e-mount-tuner-announced-optical-character-for-modern-glass/
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode! Do you have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep91 - DJI OSMO Action 6 | Inter BEE 2025 | ARRI Film Lab | CineD Focus Check

This week, another DJI product has landed in the studio — the brand-new DJI Osmo Action 6. Johnnie joins us live from Inter BEE in Japan, sharing his first impressions from the show and what's new on the ground.
Meanwhile, there are fresh updates from ARRI and ASUS, and Nino dives into the results of a recently released IMAGO study that sparked some interesting conversations. So hit that play button and enjoy your weekly dose of cine tech!
 
This episode is sponsored by SIRUI — check out their new lenses at 23:44.
Link to the Kickstarter Campaign:http://cined.co/SIRUI-Astra-Kickstarter
Chapters and Articles in This Episode
(00:00) - Intro and overview
 
(03:42) - Inter BEE 2025
 
(07:42) - FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55 Firmware Updates Coming Up – SDI RAW Output, MXF Playback, and More
https://www.cined.com/fujifilm-gfx-eterna-55-firmware-updates-coming-up-sdi-raw-output-mxf-playback-and-more/
 
(10:29) - DJI Osmo Action 6 Announced – Variable Aperture, 1/1.1-Inch Sensor, 4K/120fps
https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-action-6-announced-variable-aperture-1-1-1-inch-sensor-4k-120fps/
 
(24:31) - DJI Osmo 360 Review and Hands-On – A Bikepacking Trip through Kyrgyzstan
https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-360-review-and-hands-on-a-bikepacking-trip-through-kyrgyzstan/
 
(30:06) - ARRI Film Lab Announced – Real-Time Analog Film Emulation Plugin for DaVinci Resolve, Baselight, Nuke
https://www.cined.com/arri-film-lab-announced-real-time-analog-film-emulation-plugin-for-davinci-resolve-baselight-nuke/
 
(34:01) - ASUS ProArt 8K PA32KCX Display Announced – Raising the Bar for High-End HDR Monitoring
https://www.cined.com/asus-proart-8k-pa32kcx-display-announced-raising-the-bar-for-high-end-hdr-monitoring/
 
(37:01) - IMAGO Study Reveals Precarious Cinematographer Working Conditions
https://www.cined.com/imago-study-reveals-precarious-cinematographer-working-conditions/
 
(43:24) - CamerImage 2025 – Complete Guide to Workshops, Competition, and the World’s Premier Cinematography Festival
https://www.cined.com/camerimage-2025-complete-guide-to-workshops-competition-and-the-worlds-premier-cinematography-festival/
 
(47:06) - Hybrid Video Production – Ways to Make AI Part of Your Workflow
https://www.cined.com/hybrid-video-production-ways-to-make-ai-part-of-your-workflow/
(48:17) - Panasonic’s LUMIX Pro Service Is Ending in Europehttps://www.cined.com/panasonics-lumix-pro-service-is-ending-in-europe/
 
(49:31) - Filmstro Premiere Pro Extension Launches – Adaptive Music Control, Real-Time Keyframing, Direct Timeline Integration
https://www.cined.com/filmstro-premiere-pro-extension-launches-adaptive-music-control-real-time-keyframing-direct-timeline-integration/
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode! You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep90 - DJI Neo 2 Announced | SIRUI Astra Lenses | Sony FX2 Lab Test Results | CineD Focus Check

In this week’s episode, there's a lot to talk about! DJI just released the successor to its smallest drone – the DJI Neo 2. But the excitement is mixed with concern, as there's growing talk about a potential DJI ban in the US. Join the discussion to hear all the details and what this could mean for filmmakers.
Meanwhile, Johnnie gives us a first look at the brand-new lens series from SIRUI and dives into the latest CineD Lab Test results of the Sony FX2.
So, as always, hit that play button and enjoy your weekly dose of FocusCheck!
 
Chapters and Articles in This Episode
(00:00) - Intro and overview
(05:24) - DJI Neo 2 Announced
https://www.cined.com/dji-neo-2-announced-omnidirectional-obstacle-sensing-4k-100fps-12-m-s-tracking/
(17:30) - DJI US Ban Looms in 42 Days as Government Fails to Begin Required Audit
https://www.cined.com/dji-us-ban-looms-in-43-days-as-government-fails-to-begin-required-audit/
(25:03) - DJI Osmo Mobile 8 Smartphone Gimbal Launches With Apple DockKit Support and 360° Pan Rotation
https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-mobile-8-smartphone-gimbal-launches-with-apple-dockkit-support-and-360-pan-rotation/
(28:12) - HONOR Robot Phone Camera Signals a Built-In Gimbal Future for Mobile Filmmakers
https://www.cined.com/honor-robot-phone-camera-signals-a-built-in-gimbal-future-for-mobile-filmmakers/
(32:08) - Sony FX2 Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/sony-fx2-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
(40:16) - Canon EOS R6 Mark III Announced – A New, Beefed-Up Hybrid Workhorse
https://www.cined.com/canon-eos-r6-mark-iii-announced-a-new-beefed-up-hybrid-workhorse/
(43:00) - SIRUI Astra Series Announced – World’s First T1.8 Full-Frame Autofocus Anamorphic Lenses
https://www.cined.com/sirui-astra-series-announced-worlds-first-t1-8-full-frame-autofocus-anamorphic-lenses
(49:04) - Audiio LinkMatch 2.0 Review – Simple and Mostly Accurate Music-Matching Tool
https://www.cined.com/audiio-linkmatch-2-0-review-simple-and-mostly-accurate-music-matching-tool/
(53:48) - The Efficient Filmmaker: Scan and Plan
Read about it: https://www.cined.com/the-efficient-filmmaker-scan-and-plan-new-course-on-3d-location-scans-shot-previsualizations-visual-experiments-and-more/
Course site: https://www.mzed.com/courses/the-efficient-filmmaker-scan-and-plan?tap_a=17272-420962&tap_s=4094362-dfd65f
(57:32) - OFG Customs LONG SHOT Introduced – Optical Adapter Brings Full-Frame, Large-Format, Vista Vision Lenses to 16mm
https://www.cined.com/ofg-customs-long-shot-introduced-optical-adapter-brings-full-frame-large-format-vista-vision-lenses-to-16mm/
(01:01:18) - Hollyland Lyra 4K Webcam Released – 1/1.5″ Sensor, Wireless Audio System, AI Features from $149
https://www.cined.com/hollyland-lyra-4k-webcam-released-1-1-5-sensor-wireless-audio-system-ai-features-from-149/
(01:03:43) - The Leica Transformation – How a Camera Icon Went From Crisis to €596M by Killing the Rangefinder
https://www.cined.com/the-leica-transformation-how-a-camera-icon-went-from-crisis-to-e596m-by-killing-the-rangefinder/
(01:14:03) - IMAGO Oslo Digital Cinema Conference 2025 Returns With AI Focus – David Stump ASC, Steve Yedlin ASC Among Speakers
https://www.cined.com/imago-oslo-digital-cinema-conference-2025-returns-with-ai-focus-david-stump-asc-steve-yedlin-asc-among-speakers/
(01:20:10) - Design Update & Comments: A Better Experience for Gear Guides
https://www.cined.com/design-update-comments-a-better-experience-for-gear-guides/
(01:21:14) - Atomos Ninja TX GO Announced – 6Kp30 RAW Recording, Camera Control, 1500-Nit Display
https://www.cined.com/atomos-ninja-tx-go-announced-6kp30-raw-recording-camera-control-1500-nit-display/
(01:23:26) - RØDECaster Video S Production Console Introduced
https://www.cined.com/rodecaster-video-s-production-console-introduced/
We hope you enjoyed this episode! You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep89 - Custom optics with a social mission with Peppe Badalamenti from LVX - CineD Focus Check Podcast

In this episode, Johnnie talks with filmmaker and lens creator Peppe Badalamenti, joining from Guatemala. Peppe has built something very personal: a small lens brand shaped by his own journey, his heritage, and his love for cinema.
What makes his work special isn’t just the image, but the intention. Every lens he produces supports real people and real stories — from care homes in his community to children who deserve better chances in life. It’s filmmaking with compassion at its core.
This conversation is gentle, thoughtful, and a reminder that our craft can be more than just gear — it can be a way to give back and stay connected to what matters.
So, as always, hit that play button and enjoy your weekly dose of FocusCheck!
Chapters and Articles in This Episode
(00:00) – Intro
 
(03:37) - Peppe Badalamenti’s personal story
 
(08:51) - What is LVX Badalamenti Cinema Optics and how did it start?
 
(10:26) - How does LVX create lenses?
 
(14:21) - About Peppe’s short film that was shot on SUÁREZ Lenses
 
(17:29) - How can you get the LVX lenses?
 
(22:56) - Philosophy & Social Purpose Behind the Brand and what Lenses are coming next?
 
(27:36) - Looking Ahead: Future Lens Collections
 
(30:37) - Closing Thoughts & Farewell
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode! You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep88 - Adobe Max | Vimeo Updates | Tilta Mini PD V-Mount Battery Plate | CineD - Focus Check

This week’s episode is hosted by Nino, as Johnnie is currently in LA attending the Adobe MAX conference. Nino gives us a preview of what’s being announced there, along with updates from Vimeo and yet another wake-up call for Hollywood, as the numbers continue to decline. We’re also covering new gear updates from Tilta, SWIT, and FilmConvert.
So, as always, hit that play button and enjoy your weekly dose of Focus Check!
Chapters and Articles in This Episode
(00:00) – Intro
(03:39) - Adobe MAX 2025 – The Firefly Image Model 5 Era Begins
https://www.cined.com/adobe-max-2025-the-firefly-image-model-5-era-begins/
(21:14) - Nikon ZR Review and Mini-Doc with DZOFILM Vespid 2 Lenses – “Born Cinematic” or Maybe Not?
https://www.cined.com/nikon-zr-review-and-mini-doc-with-dzofilm-vespid-2-lenses-born-cinematic-or-maybe-not/
(31:25) - Vimeo Updates Video Review Functions, Improved Monetization, Agentic AI and Immersive Formats
https://www.cined.com/vimeo-updates-video-review-functions-improved-monetization-agentic-ai-and-immersive-formats/
(39:35) - “Storytelling Isn’t Broken – We Are”: Michael Cioni’s Wake-Up Call to Hollywood
https://www.cined.com/storytelling-isnt-broken-we-are-michael-cionis-wake-up-call-to-hollywood/
(48:39) - New Feature: Better Print & PDF Layout for CineD Articles
https://www.cined.com/new-feature-better-print-pdf-layout-for-cined-articles/
(50:45) -  Tilta Mini PD V-Mount Battery Plate With Adjustable ARCA Receiver
https://www.cined.com/tilta-mini-pd-v-mount-battery-plate-with-adjustable-arca-receiver/
(52:42) - SWIT PowerCell Camera Batteries with USB-C Now Available
https://www.cined.com/swit-powercell-camera-batteries-with-usb-c-now-available/
(54:40) - FilmConvert Nitrate and CineMatch Now Support iPhone 17 Pro
https://www.cined.com/filmconvert-nitrate-and-cinematch-now-support-iphone-17-pro/
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode! Do you have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com