Focus Check

ep33 - Monthly MZed Pro Membership | Panasonic Firmware Updates | BLAZAR CATO Lens Series

Stay up-to-date with the latest firmware updates for several Panasonic cameras. Nino shares exciting behind-the-scenes insights from his challenging TV show project, offering a unique look at the production process. Plus, catch the latest lens updates from a variety of manufacturers. ALL NEW - MZed Pro is now offering a monthly membership!
Sponsor: We want to thank FUJIFILM for sponsoring this week's episode. Check out their 1-Minute Tip at (09:24).
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
(00:00) - Intro
(02:45)  - New Monthly MZed Pro Membership with Full Access to 750+ Lessons
https://www.cined.com/new-monthly-mzed-pro-membership-with-full-access-to-750-lessons
(10:28) - Poll: Will You Work for Free for Exposure? 
https://www.cined.com/poll-will-you-work-for-free-for-exposure/
(15:09) - Panasonic LUMIX S5II, S5IIX, and G9II Firmware Update Adds LUMIX Lab Support and More
https://www.cined.com/panasonic-lumix-s5ii-s5iix-and-g9ii-firmware-update-adds-lumix-lab-support-and-more/
(19:26) - Panasonic LUMIX S9 Firmware Update Released, No Recording Limit (and More)
https://www.cined.com/panasonic-lumix-s9-firmware-update-released-no-recording-limit-and-more/
(27:47) - BTS of Nino’s TV show project
(43:53) - BLAZAR CATO Lens Series Released – Four Focal Lengths with 2x Anamorphic Squeeze
https://www.cined.com/blazar-cato-lens-series-released-four-focal-lengths-with-2x-anamorphic-squeeze/
(47:17) - Blackmagic RAW Recording From the Sony FX6 and Sony FX9 – Coming Soon
https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-raw-recording-from-the-sony-fx6-and-sony-fx9-coming-soon/
(52:27) - FUJIFILM X Summit on October 14th – Firmware Updates for Improved AF Performance, New F-Log2 C, and More
https://www.cined.com/fujifilm-x-summit-on-october-14th-firmware-updates-for-improved-af-performance-new-f-log2-c-and-more/
(56:03) - Sharing the Frame – Split Screens in Films and the Visual Stories They Tell
https://www.cined.com/sharing-the-frame-split-screens-in-films-and-the-visual-stories-they-tell/
We hope you enjoyed this episode!Do you have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com. 

ep32 - Is Filming Just for Exposure Worth It?

In this special episode, Nino and Johnnie dive deep into the controversial topic of working for exposure in the film and video industry. They share personal stories from their own careers, exploring the times they’ve taken on unpaid work and whether it ultimately helped or hurt their professional journeys. The episode also tackles important questions, such as when, if ever, working for exposure might be a good idea, and what red flags to watch out for when considering such opportunities.
Is "exposure" ever truly worth it, or does it devalue your time and skills? Join the discussion as Nino and Johnnie weigh the pros and cons, offering advice for both newcomers and seasoned professionals alike. We'd love to hear from you too! Share your experiences in the comments – have you ever worked for exposure, and was it beneficial or not?
 
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
 
(00:00) - Opening Remarks
(03:09) - Johnnie’s Journey: Working for Exposure
(07:24) - Nino’s Experience with Unpaid Work
(12:35) - Tips for Up-and-Coming Filmmakers
(14:03) - Calculating the True Value of Your Work
(25:40) - Navigating Client Revisions Effectively
(33:30) - Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com. 
 

ep31 - RØDECaster Video | SIRUI Projector Zoom Lens | SWIT K15 & 21 Field Monitors

While Nino is away on a shoot, Johnnie brings us the latest product updates for the week. We also offer a behind-the-scenes look at our podcast production, where we're already putting RODE's brand-new audio and video console to the test. Johnnie shares his thoughts on the experience so far. Plus, he dives into some fascinating insights from interviews he conducted at IBC just a few days ago. Make sure to stick around until the end!
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Fujifilm. Check it out at (11:38).
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
 
(00:00) - Intro
(01:52)  - RØDECaster Video First Look – an All-in-One Video and Audio Production Console
https://www.cined.com/rodecaster-video-first-look-an-all-in-one-video-and-audio-production-console/
(12:38) - SIRUI 18° – 36° Projector Zoom Lens for COB Lights – Review
https://www.cined.com/sirui-18-36-projector-zoom-lens-for-cob-lights-review/
(19:18) - Atomos Talks – Jeromy Young on the Future of the Company, Cameras, External Recording and Ninja Phone 4K
https://www.cined.com/atomos-talks-jeromy-young-on-the-future-of-the-company-cameras-external-recording-and-ninja-phone-4k/
(24:12) - FUJIFILM Talks: Zoom vs Prime Lenses in Filmmaking
https://www.cined.com/fujifilm-talks-zoom-vs-prime-lenses-in-filmmaking/
(29:11) - Freewell Magnetic iPhone SSD Storage Solution Announced – Supports All M.2 SSDs
https://www.cined.com/freewell-magnetic-ssd-storage-solution-announced-supports-all-m2-0-ssds/
(32:40) - SWIT K15 and K21 Field Monitors – First Look
https://www.cined.com/swit-k15-and-k21-field-monitors-first-look/
(36:47) - Laowa Enters the 8K Market with the Ultima 12-120mm T4 Broadcast Zoom Lens
https://www.cined.com/laowa-enters-the-8k-market-with-the-ultima-12-120mm-t4-broadcast-zoom-lens/
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com. 

ep30 - IBC 2024 recap | IBC 2024 Recap | AF Cine Lenses by SIGMA & BLAZAR | LC-Tec eDiffusion | PDMovie 3D Air Budget 3D Shooting Rig

Fresh after IBC 2024 trade show, Johnnie and Nino recap the most innovative and exciting products they discovered. They highlight standout innovations, including the latest autofocus lenses from BLAZAR and SIGMA, and showcase many more fascinating products they explored at the event. Be sure to watch until the end for all the details!
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Fujifilm. Check it out at (17:20).
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
 
(00:00) - Intro
(06:04)  - BLAZAR APEX 1.33x Autofocus Anamorphic Lenses – First Look
https://www.cined.com/blazar-apex-1-33x-autofocus-anamorphic-lenses-first-look/
(10:06) - SIGMA Auto Focus Cine Lens Prototype to be Shown at IBC
https://www.cined.com/sigma-auto-focus-cine-lens-prototype-to-be-shown-at-ibc/
(18:40) - VILTROX LUNA 42-420mm T5.6 Large-Format Cine Zoom – First Look
https://www.cined.com/viltrox-luna-42-420mm-t5-6-large-format-cine-zoom-first-look/
(20:55) - NiSi ATHENA Tuned Full-Frame Cinema Prime Lenses – First Look
https://www.cined.com/nisi-athena-tuned-full-frame-cinema-prime-lenses-first-look/
(24:38) - PDMOVIE 3D AIR Smart Mini – First Look
https://www.cined.com/pdmovie-3d-air-smart-mini-first-look/
(33:22) - iFootage Shark Slider Nano 2 Announced – First Look
https://www.cined.com/ifootage-shark-slider-nano-2-announced-first-look/
(36:56) - Aputure STORM 1200x with New BLAIR Light Engine – First Look
https://www.cined.com/aputure-storm-1200x-with-new-blair-light-engine-first-look/
(42:13) - Pixelcube remote DIT box
https://www.cined.com/awesome-pixels-x-ottomatic-pixel-cube-explained-automated-remote-offload-solution-for-dits/
(49:58) - LC-Tec Electronic Variable Diffusion Filter System & Metabones EF-E CINE eND Smart Adapter – First Look
https://www.cined.com/lc-tec-electronic-variable-diffusion-filter-system-metabones-ef-e-cine-end-smart-adapter-first-look/
(57:31) - Outro
  
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com. 

ep29 - Canon EOS C80 Review Discussed | iPhone 16 Pro | Will DJI Drones Be Banned?

In this episode, Johnnie shares his recent experience shooting with the brand new Canon EOS C80, offering insights from his time filming a mini-documentary with the camera. With the new iPhone 16 Pro just announced, Nino and Johnnie dive into the latest camera features of the recent models and discuss whether upgrading is worth it. They look at a CineD Studio Tour and interview by the YouTube channel "Orbit for Creators". Last but not least, Nino also sheds light on the latest developments regarding the potential DJI drone ban in the US. Don't hesitate—jump into this new episode of Focus Check!
 
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check it out at (24:28).
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
 
(00:00) - Intro
(01:24) - Canon EOS C80 Review and Mini-Doc: Best Value-for-Money Cinema Camera Canon Has Ever Made
https://www.cined.com/canon-eos-c80-review-and-mini-doc-best-value-for-money-cinema-camera-canon-has-ever-made/
(25:32) - CineD HQ Studio Tour & History Lesson by Orbit for Creators
https://www.cined.com/cined-hq-studio-tour-history-lesson-by-orbit-for-creators/
(27:54) - Apple iPhone 16 Pro Shoots 4K120 fps in Dolby Vision & Adds Impressive Audio Mix Capabilities
https://www.cined.com/apple-iphone-16-pro-shoots-4k120-fps-in-dolby-vision-adds-impressive-audio-mix-capabilities/(49:52) - US House Votes to Bar DJI Drones – Where Do We Go From Here?
https://www.cined.com/us-house-votes-to-bar-dji-drones-where-do-we-go-from-here/
(56:36) - iodyne Pro Mini Announced – A Smart Drive for Video and Photo Professionals
https://www.cined.com/iodyne-pro-mini-announced-a-smart-drive-for-video-and-photo-professionals/
(01:02:14) - Outro
  
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com. 

ep28 - DJI's $199 Neo Drone - Will Drones be EVERYWHERE? | GoPro HERO13 Black | RED Slashes KOMODO Prices | Blazar Remus 50, 85 & 125mm Anamorphics

In this episode, Nino and Johnnie start with exciting news from DJI, highlighting their new ultra-compact DJI Neo drone that can take off right from the palm of your hand. They also explore the latest GoPro announcement and debate whether the recent price drops on RED cameras are a good or bad move for filmmakers. Tune in for an engaging conversation packed with tech insights and industry trends!
 
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM and FilmConvert. Check it out at (22:42).
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
 
(00:00) - Intro
(01:28) - The new DJI's $199 Neo Drone 
https://www.cined.com/dji-neo-launched-tiny-135g-easy-to-fly-4k-drone-for-creators-for-199/
(24:45) - GoPro announces two new models the HERO 13Black and HERO
https://www.cined.com/gopro-hero13-black-and-hero-announced-5-3k-60p-13x-burst-slo-mo/ 
(40:00) - BLAZAR Remus 50mm T1.8, 85mm T2.8 and 125 T4.0 Anamorphic Full Frame Primes Announced
https://www.cined.com/blazar-remus-50mm-t1-8-85mm-t2-8-and-125-t4-0-anamorphic-full-frame-primes-announced/
(45:18) - RED Slashes Prices on KOMODO and KOMODO-X Models – Save Up to $3,000
https://www.cined.com/red-slashes-prices-on-komodo-and-komodo-x-models-save-up-to-3000/
(57:29) - Poll: Cameras with Built-In Battery as Backup Power or Hot Swap Option – Would You Want It?
https://www.cined.com/poll-cameras-built-in-battery-as-backup-power-or-hot-swap-option-would-you-want-it/
(01:02:03) - Angelbird AV Pro CFexpress Type A SE Cards with 160 GB and 330 GB Capacity Announced
https://www.cined.com/angelbird-av-pro-cfexpress-type-a-se-cards-with-160-gb-and-330-gb-capacity-announced/
(01:06:12) - Wide-angle Close-ups – Expressive Frames and Their Emotional Impact
https://www.cined.com/wide-angle-close-ups-expressive-frames-and-their-emotional-impact/
(01:07:19) - Generative AI for Video: Have We Already Lost the Battle, or Is There Room to Fight?
https://www.cined.com/generative-ai-for-video-have-we-already-lost-the-battle-or-is-there-room-to-fight/
(01:14:14) - Outro
  
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com. 

ep27 - Does sensor size still matter? | Wildlife doc on the LUMIX G9 II | New Sony Pro Camcorders | DaVinci Resolve 19 Beta 6 Released and more…

In this episode, Nino and Johnnie dive into the hot topic of whether sensor sizes still matter with today's camera technology. They also explore the exciting possibility of future cameras featuring built-in internal memory alongside traditional memory card slots. Plus, we’ll bring you the latest updates on several NLEs and other intriguing developments in the world of film technology. Don’t miss out—tune in, and make sure to stick around until the end for all the details!
 
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM and FilmConvert. Check it out at [28:40].
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
(00:00) - Intro
(03:35) - LUMIX G9 II Goes to India – How To Make a Wildlife Documentary
Documentary:
https://www.cined.com/bhigwan-an-indian-wildlife-documentary-shot-on-lumix-g9-ii/
BTS Interview:
https://www.cined.com/lumix-g9-ii-goes-to-india-how-to-make-a-wildlife-documentary/
(15:15) - Does sensor size matter that much?
(30:44) - Pro Camcorders Aren’t Dead and Sony is Here to Prove It – PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800
https://www.cined.com/pro-camcorders-arent-dead-and-sony-is-here-to-prove-it-pxw-z200-and-hxr-nx800/
(40:55) - Poll: Built-In Camera Memory – Would You Want This Feature and Pay Extra for It?
https://www.cined.com/poll-built-in-camera-memory-would-you-want-this-feature-and-pay-extra-for-it/
(50:39) - SanDisk 8TB SD Card and 4TB microSD Card Introduced – Are Such High Capacity Cards Even Needed?
https://www.cined.com/sandisk-8tb-sd-card-and-4tb-microsd-card-introduced-are-such-high-capacity-cards-even-needed/
(56:34) - CineD Best-of-Show Award at IBC 2024 – Submissions Now Open for Manufacturers
https://www.cined.com/cined-best-of-show-award-at-ibc-2024-submissions-now-open-for-manufacturers/
(59:11) - Samyang Unveils Remaster Slim, World’s First Optical Exchange Autofocus Lens
https://www.cined.com/samyang-unveils-remaster-slim-worlds-first-optical-exchange-autofocus-lens/
(01:05:04) - SWISS RIG sr RAW Cinema Camera for iPhone Introduced – FullHD, 14-bit, CinemaDNG, and Synchronised Audio
https://www.cined.com/swiss-rig-sr-raw-cinema-camera-for-iphone-introduced-fullhd-14-bit-cinemadng-and-synchronised-audio/
(01:08:31) - DaVinci Resolve 19 Beta 6 Released
https://www.cined.com/davinci-resolve-19-beta-6-released/
(01:15:12) - Apple Releases Feature Video about Final Cut Pro 10.8
https://www.cined.com/apple-releases-feature-video-about-final-cut-pro-10-8/
(01:17:51) - Godox Cube-S Wireless Mic System Announced – Tiny Microphones, Apple’s Find My Support, and More
https://www.cined.com/godox-cube-s-wireless-mic-system-announced-tiny-microphones-apples-find-my-support-and-more/
(01:22:22) - Deep Dive into AI for Video and Potential Consequences – Interview With Lightricks LTX Studio CEO
https://www.cined.com/deep-dive-into-ai-for-video-and-potential-consequences-interview-with-lightricks-ltx-studio-ceo/
(01:37:37) - Understanding ISO and How to Approach It – Basics for Beginners
https://www.cined.com/understanding-iso-and-how-to-approach-it-basics-for-beginners/
(01:38:48) - Using Texture in Films – How to Create a Sensorial Cinema Experience
https://www.cined.com/using-texture-in-films-how-to-create-a-sensorial-cinema-experience/
(01:39:56) - Outro
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com. 

ep26 - What's the camera of the future? Special Guest: Victor Ha from FUJIFILM

In this episode, we welcome an extraordinary guest, Victor Ha from FUJIFILM, who joins us for an intriguing discussion about the future of cameras. They explore the concept of cameras connected directly to the cloud, and whether memory cards might become a thing of the past.
Victor Ha is Vice President of Electronic Imaging Division and Optical Devices Division at FUJIFILM North America Corporation, and someone with an outspoken vision about the imaging market, much beyond any individual camera model - which is why we invited him to join us for a very interesting discussion about the "state of the industry." Full disclosure: FUJIFILM is a sponsor of the Focus Check podcast.
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Fujifilm and Filmconvert. Check it out at [29:13].
 
Articles mentioned in this episode:
 
(00:00) - Intro
(05:50) - FUJIFILM’s Massive Success with the 100X VI
(19:58) - What Could the Camera of the Future Look Like?
(21:45) - Why no image editing and 5G in cameras?
(26:10) - Is Camera-to-Cloud the Future?
(36:10) - Are Memory Cards Becoming a Thing of the Past?
(44:00) - Victor's Own Photography
(48:39) - How FUJIFILM Pays Attention to What the Market Wants
(56:00) - Custom Cinema Camera Based on FUJIFILM GFX100 II Sensor
(01:01:20) - Victor's Thoughts on the Slowdown of the Camera Market
(01:18:10) - Outro
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com. 
 

ep25 - Are You Afraid of AI in Filmmaking? With Mascha Deikova

In this episode, Johnnie talks to Mascha Deikova about the rapid development of AI and its potential impact on the filmmaking industry. Mascha is a filmmaker based in Austria and an active contributor to CineD. Instead of fearing AI, she chooses to understand and integrate it into her creative process. But is she right not to be afraid? Tune in to the discussion on the impact AI is having on the filmmaking industry, where they think it's leading us, and their take on the most important question - Should we be afraid of AI in filmmaking?
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FilmConvert. Check it out at [16:24].
Embracing AI in filmmaking
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, AI has become a hot topic, especially in creative industries like filmmaking. In this episode, Johnnie sits down with Mascha Deikova, a filmmaker based in Austria and a contributor to CineD, to explore the complex relationship between AI and the art of storytelling.
Based on recent comments we have received when writing about AI, you could say Mascha is not your typical filmmaker. She's someone who has chosen to face AI head-on rather than shy away from it. While many in the industry are concerned about the potential threats AI poses (like the loss of creative jobs or the homogenization of content), Mascha sees things a bit differently. She believes that understanding AI is key to harnessing its potential and ensuring it becomes a tool that enhances, rather than diminishes, creative expression.
Big studios vs. independent filmmakers
Johnnie and Mascha delve into the various aspects of AI in filmmaking. They discuss the potential threats, but they also explore the benefits. Mascha's approach is clear: rather than fearing AI, she advocates for learning about it and finding ways to integrate it into the creative process. But what about Johnnie? Well, he seems quite relaxed since it's important to differentiate between big studios and independent filmmakers. While he also enjoys using AI tools like audio enhancement, music libraries, and such, he's not quite convinced yet that he will be out of a job anytime soon.
 
(00:35) - Intro(1:49) - Mascha and her interest in AI (find her articles here)(6:16) - Negative comments we get when we write about AI(7:26) - Why are so many working in the film industry afraid of AI?(8:40) - Will AI replace us?(12:10) - Some artists' reactions to Midjourney & co(15:43) - Big studios vs. independent filmmakers(21:09) - Does Mascha have a plan if AI takes over?(22:33) - What does Johnnie think of AI?(29:52) - Sora & other video generators(33:44) - Conclusions

ep24 - Have Smartphones Replaced Cameras? | Blackmagic Cam v2 | Meta SAM 2 | SIGMA AF Cine Zoom | Atomos Shinobi II

In this episode, Nino and Johnnie discuss the evolution of camera technology and how various innovations have replaced older systems over time. They also share their thoughts on what manufacturers could do to break away from this cycle and adapt to ongoing developments. Additionally, they cover some exciting news about the new Blackmagic Camera app 2.0 and provide an intriguing preview from Sigma regarding a new AF Cine Zoom.
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FilmConvert. Check it out at [19:02].
 
(00:01:24) - Have Smartphones Replaced Cameras
https://www.cined.com/have-smartphones-replaced-cameras-an-animated-infographic/
 
(00:20:09) - DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Review – Is It the Best Camera for Vlogging and Traveling?
https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-pocket-3-review-is-it-the-best-camera-for-vlogging-and-traveling/
 
(00:35:23) - Blackmagic Camera for iOS 2.0 Adds Remote Control, Multicam, and More
https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-camera-for-ios-2-0-adds-remote-control-multicam-and-more/
 
(00:42:51) Video Cutouts and Effects in a Few Clicks with SAM 2 by Meta
https://www.cined.com/video-cutouts-and-effects-with-a-few-clicks-with-sam-2-by-meta/
 
(00:50:13) - Poll: What screen are you mainly using to watch videos?
https://www.cined.com/poll-which-device-do-you-mainly-watch-videos-on/
 
(00:56:10) - SIGMA Auto Focus Cine Lens Prototype to be Shown at IBC
https://www.cined.com/sigma-auto-focus-cine-lens-prototype-to-be-shown-at-ibc/
 
(01:02:36) - Atomos Shinobi II Released – Slim 5.2” 1,500-nit HDMI Monitor with Camera Control https://www.cined.com/atomos-shinobi-ii-released-slim-5-2-1500-nit-hdmi-monitor-with-camera-control/
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode! Do you have feedback, comments, or suggestions?
Write us at podcast@cined.com.