Focus Check

ep51 - Raw or Not to Raw? I Camera Storage Speeds | Angelbird 4TB CFexpress Type B I Nikon COOLPIX P1100

There are still some great gear updates and valuable feedback from the CineD community worth discussing. So don’t miss out! Tune in to this week’s episode of our cine tech podcast to stay up to date with the latest happenings in our industry.
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check it out at (28:10)
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
(00:00) - Intro & Overview
(06:18) - Feedback from last week’s Episode 
https://www.cined.com/new-creative-ways-to-reduce-prices-i-ursa-cine-12k-for-7k-cined-focus-check-ep50/
 (29:13) - Poll: Would You Buy a Budget Camera from ARRI, Even if It Offers Lower Specs than the Competition?
https://www.cined.com/poll-would-you-buy-a-budget-camera-from-arri-even-if-it-offers-lower-specs-than-the-competition/
(32:32) - REDCINE-X Pro (Beta) Adds Nikon N-RAW Support
https://www.cined.com/redcine-x-pro-beta-adds-nikon-n-raw-support/
(36:03) - Angelbird AV PRO SE CFexpress B v4 Cards Introduced – Up to 4TB Capacity
https://www.cined.com/angelbird-av-pro-se-cfexpress-b-v4-cards-introduced-up-to-4tb-capacity/
(39:45) - Tokina Cinema Vista-C Cinema Prime Lenses Introduced – Vintage Optics, All New Coatings
https://www.cined.com/tokina-cinema-vista-c-cinema-prime-lenses-introduced-vintage-optics-all-new-coatings/
(43:05) - Nikon COOLPIX P1100 Announced – the Perfect Wildlife Filming All-Rounder?
https://www.cined.com/nikon-coolpix-p1100-announced-the-perfect-wildlife-filming-all-rounder/
MZed Wildlife course mentioned:
https://www.mzed.com/courses/doug-jensen-wildlife-cinematography-master-class
 (48:08) - OM SYSTEM OM-3 Announced – Bringing Enhanced Video Capabilities
https://www.cined.com/om-system-om-3-mirrorless-camera-micro-four-thirds/
 (50:40) - Atomos Ninja Phone Price Drops 50% – Now Only $199
https://www.cined.com/atomos-ninja-phone-price-drops-199-iphone/
(55:23) - Has RAW Video Finally Gone Mainstream?
https://www.cined.com/has-raw-video-finally-gone-mainstream/
(01:03:38)  - RØDECaster Video Firmware Update Adds New Workflow Automation Features
https://www.cined.com/rodecaster-video-firmware-update-adds-new-workflow-automation-features/
(01:09:07) - Camera Rentals NYC CinePower Calculator Introduced – A Free Tool to Plan Battery Consumption
https://www.cined.com/camera-rentals-nycs-cinepower-calculator-introduced-a-free-tool-to-plan-battery-consumption/
(01:11:27) - Prioritizing Safety on Set – a Video Interview with Richard Jones, Founder of “Safety for Sarah”
https://www.cined.com/prioritizing-safety-on-set-a-video-interview-with-richard-jones-founder-of-safety-for-sarah/
(01:14:54) - Disability and Stuttering Representation in Entertainment – Marc Winski on HBO Max’s “The Penguin”
https://www.cined.com/disability-and-stuttering-representation-in-entertainment-marc-winski-on-hbo-maxs-the-penguin/
(01:17:12) - Harmony and Tension in Symmetrical Shots – Movie and TV Examples
https://www.cined.com/harmony-and-tension-in-symmetrical-shots-movie-and-tv-examples/
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep50 - New Creative Ways to Reduce Prices? I URSA Cine 12K for $7K -CineD FocusCheck

It seems that several manufacturers are finding creative ways to reduce prices for their cameras. Following ARRI’s announcement last week, Blackmagic has now announced a price reduction for the URSA Cine 12K to $7,000. Given the strong engagement from the CineD community in the comments on ARRI’s announcement, it’s worth discussing and sharing different perspectives on cameras and the high-end cinema market.
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check it out at 29:46
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
 
(00:00) - Intro
(03:50) - ARRI ALEXA 35 Base Model Starts at €50K & Adds Flexible Feature Licenses, Lower-Cost Media
https://www.cined.com/arri-alexa-35-base-model-starts-at-e50k-adds-flexible-feature-licenses-lower-cost-media/
(27:49) - Blackmagic Design URSA Cine 12K for $7K Launched
https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-design-ursa-cine-12k-for-7k-launched/
Blackmagic URSA Cine 12K LF Lab Test
https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-ursa-cine-12k-lf-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 

ep49 - ARRI for All? | Z CAM E2 Mark II | EVF or Monitor? | Sony & Panasonic Firmware Updates

A new ARRI announcement has likely caught the attention of many in the film industry. They have introduced the new ARRI ALEXA 35 Base Model, which comes at a lower price than the original (now called “ARRI ALEXA 35 Premium Model”) version but lacks some features that can be licensed and purchased separately. Nino and Johnny discuss this new pricing model and share their thoughts on why ARRI might be taking this approach. Additionally, there are some noteworthy cameras and firmware updates and new lenses worth discussing, so tune in for this week’s updates in the world of cine tech!
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check it out at 29:46
 
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
(00:00) - Intro
(03:50) - ARRI ALEXA 35 Base Model Starts at €50K & Adds Flexible Feature Licenses, Lower-Cost Media
https://www.cined.com/arri-alexa-35-base-model-starts-at-e50k-adds-flexible-feature-licenses-lower-cost-media/
(35:00) - Z CAM E2 Mark II Series of Cameras Announced – Enhanced Specifications and Functionality
https://www.cined.com/z-cam-e2-mark-ii-series-of-cameras-announced/
(40:46) -  Sony BURANO Firmware Version 2.0 Upcoming – New Recording Formats, SDI Output, Monitoring, Metadata, and More
https://www.cined.com/sony-burano-firmware-version-2-0-upcoming-new-recording-formats-sdi-output-monitoring-metadata-and-more/
(47:48) - Panasonic LUMIX Firmware Updates Announced – Multiple Frame Markers, MP4 Lite, and More
https://www.cined.com/panasonic-lumix-firmware-updates-announced-multiple-frame-markers-mp4-lite-and-more/
(52:32) - Introduction to Lighting
https://www.mzed.com/courses/introduction-to-lighting
(55:20) - Adobe Unveils Upgrades to Premiere, After Effects, and Frame.io
https://www.cined.com/adobe-updates-unveil-upgrades-to-premiere-after-effects-and-frame-io/
(01:06:44) - Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 Lens Announced – Compact and Affordable
https://www.cined.com/canon-rf-16-28mm-f-2-8-lens-announced-compact-and-affordable/
(01:08:32) - DZOFILM X-Tract Probe Zoom Lens Series Unveiled
https://www.cined.com/dzofilm-x-tract-probe-zoom-lens-series-unveiled/
(01:14:34) - Laowa Probe Lens Teased – Ultra Wide 15mm, and 2.3X Zoom
https://www.cined.com/laowa-probe-lens-teased-ultra-wide-15mm-and-2-3x-zoom/
(01:16:44) - Poll: EVF or Monitor – Which Do You Prefer for Your Camera Setup?
https://www.cined.com/poll-evf-or-monitor-which-do-you-prefer-for-your-camera-setup/
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep48 - Camera Predictions 2025 – What Do We Expect From BMD, Canon, DJI, FUJIFILM, Nikon, Panasonic, Sony?

This week, Johnnie and Nino dare a long, hard look into the crystal ball to speculate and ponder about the cameras and lenses that they expect to be released in 2025. What are the big news we expect from Blackmagic Design, Canon, DJI, FUJIFILM, Nikon/RED, Panasonic, Sigma and Sony?
As you might now, CineD rarely speculates about unannounced products, but the beginning of the year is a good excuse to make an exception to that rule: There are a few cameras from various manufacturers that have been long-expected. For example, when can we expect an update to the Sony FX line, whether it’s a successor to the FX9, FX6, or FX3? Or a Sony a7S III? Or will we see the long-rumoured DJI camera sometime this year?
In this extensive talk, Nino Leitner and Johnnie Behiri dive deep into a mixture of well-founded expectations and probably also a little wishful thinking about what’s to come in both cameras and lenses this year. 
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check out their 1-minute filmmaking tip at (14:00) 
 
CHAPTER & TOPICS
(00:00) Intro(03:07) Panasonic Predictions 2025(15:04) Sony Predictions 2025(23:04) Built-in Editing & Social Media Uploading from Cameras? AI Enhancements?(28:48) Canon Predictions 2025(33:08) FUJIFILM Predictions 2025(37:58) Nikon & RED Predictions 2025(43:53) Sigma Predictions 2025(48:02) OM System Predictions 2025(50:07) DJI Predictions 2025(01:03:47) Blackmagic Design Predictions 2025(01:13:30) Lens Predictions 2025(01:23:40) Atomos 8K60 Sensor ever coming?(01:26:25) What do we want to see in lights in 2025?(01:28:34) Outro

ep47 - Leica SL3-S Filmmaking Beast? | DJI Flip Drone | C400 Lab Test

We hope you missed Johnnie and Nino, here is a new episode of CineD Focus Check dealing with all the latest camera gear announcements, including the Leica SL3-S and the DJI Flip drone! Check it out now. 
In the latest episode of CineD Focus Check, Nino and Johnnie catch up on audience feedback on their best and worst camera gear purchases, they discuss the latest C400 Lab Test with mixed results, dissect Johnnie’s “pro” review of the Osmo Pocket 3 on a racetrack in Japan, and discuss various troubling news for filmmakers: Canon considering outsourcing camera manufacturing, Getty Images and Shutterstock seeking to merge and its possible implications for stock footage creators, and SanDisk cards corrupting when shooting with a Canon EOS R5 Mark II. But then they focus on new gear again, the entry-level DJI Flip drone, the Hollyland Lark M2S concealed wireless mic set and the Kinefinity EAGLE universal HDMI viewfinder that works with any HDMI camera without breaking the bank. Then they move on to the announcement of the Leica SL3-S and discover that it’s actually really build with filmmakers in mind, but they discuss Leica’s pricing strategy and if those cameras can gain a significant market share or not. Ultimately, they discuss vertical shooting for social media, and whether or not a rotatable sensor would make sense. Enjoy this episode!
 
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check out their 1-minute filmmaking tip at 28:05. 
 
(00:00) Intro
(01:18) Overview
(02:41) Audience Feedback: Worst and Best Camera Gear Purchaseshttps://www.cined.com/our-worst-and-best-camera-gear-purchases-ever-cined-focus-check-ep44/
(10:52) Audience Feedback: Lab Tests of 2024https://www.cined.com/year-in-review-camera-lab-tests-of-2024-cined-focus-check-ep45/
(11:20) C400 Lab Testhttps://www.cined.com/canon-eos-c400-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
(17:18) Osmo Pocket 3 “Pro” Review & Documentary by Johnniehttps://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-pocket-3-review-is-it-any-good-for-professional-documentary-work/
(29:05) Canon considering outsourcing camera manufacturing to cut costshttps://www.cined.com/canon-considering-outsourcing-camera-manufacturing-to-cut-costs/
(31:36) Getty Images and Shutterstock want to merge - implications for stock image/footage shootershttps://www.cined.com/getty-images-and-shutterstock-to-merge/
(35:25) Some SanDisk cards get corrupted in the Canon EOS R5 Mark IIhttps://www.cined.com/canon-eos-r5-mark-ii-corrupted-files-and-sandisk-memory-cards-what-you-need-to-know/
(38:01) DJI Flip drone announced - who is this for?https://www.cined.com/dji-flip-drone-announced-new-folding-design-with-focus-on-camera/
(42:58) Hollyland LARK M2S - First “budget” concealed wireless mic set without logohttps://www.cined.com/hollyland-lark-m2s-announced-mini-concealed-wireless-microphone-set/
(45:54) Godox Cube-C Wireless Microphone System announcedhttps://www.cined.com/godox-cube-c-wireless-microphone-system-announced/
(47:34) Kinefinity EAGLE HDMI universal viewfinder launchedhttps://www.cined.com/kinefinity-eagle-hdmi-e-viewfinder-launched/
(51:41) AltCineCam Eclipse unveiled - another Blackmagic Cinema Camera modificationhttps://www.cined.com/altcinecam-eclipse-unveiled-blackmagic-cinema-camera-modification/
(54:29) Leica SL3-S announced - finally the Leica camera for filmmakers we waited for?https://www.cined.com/leica-sl3-s-released-24-6mp-full-frame-image-sensor-6k-and-open-gate-recording-ibis-better-low-light-capabilities-and-more/https://www.cined.com/leica-sl3-s-review-first-look/
(01:07:37) Vertical Shooting for Social Media - Ergonomy and Practical Concernshttps://www.cined.com/vertical-shooting-for-social-media-ergonomy-and-practical-concerns/
(01:13:29) Can a Small in a Script Make it to the Screen? An Opinion on Writing for Cinemahttps://www.cined.com/can-a-smell-in-a-script-make-it-to-the-screen-an-opinion-on-writing-for-cinema/

ep46 - The Ethics of AI

The divisive topic of AI in the filmmaking industry: Where is it helpful, and where does it become a threatening tool? Join Omri Keren Lapidot and Nino Leitner in this insightful conversation as they explore the pros and cons of this rapidly growing technology.
 
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check it out at 19:18
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
(00:00) - IntroductionOverview of the episode and its topics.
(01:37) - Meet OmriOmri's background and journey.
(03:18) - The Divine Topic of AIPhilosophical and practical implications of AI.
(10:21) - Detecting AI in MediaChallenges of identifying AI in visuals.
(20:24) - Growing Up with AIAI's influence on future generations.
(27:31) - AI and Social MediaImpact of AI on social media dynamics.
(42:28) - AI in FilmmakingPositive innovations in the film industry.
(57:59) - Can We Stop AI?Exploring control and ethical boundaries.
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep45 - Year in Review: Camera Lab Tests of 2024

CineD Lab Tests are a trusted resource for camera enthusiasts and professionals looking to objectively compare camera sensors and specifications. In this engaging conversation, Nino Leitner and Gunther Machu take you behind the scenes for an exclusive look at how these tests are conducted.
Gunther also shares fascinating insights gained from conducting various lab tests in 2024. Also revealing some techniques manufacturers use to enhance dynamic range in their cameras. Plus, he offers an exciting glimpse into the potential advancements in camera sensor technology we might see by 2025.
So, grab some popcorn and stay tuned until the end for an insightful and entertaining discussion!
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check it out at 38:58
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
(00:00) - Introduction and the Vision behind the CineD Lab Tests
(40:10) -Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K Lab Test: Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range, and Latitude
https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-cinema-camera-6k-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-latitude/
(43:11) - FUJIFILM GFX100 II Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range, and Latitude
https://www.cined.com/fujifilm-gfx100-ii-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-latitude/
(53:00) - Sony Alpha 9 III Lab Test – Dynamic Range and Latitude
https://www.cined.com/sony-alpha-9-iii-lab-test-dynamic-range-and-latitude/
(59:40) - RED V-RAPTOR [X] 8K VV Lab Test – Dynamic Range and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/red-v-raptor-x-8k-vv-lab-test-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
(01:02:18) - Sony BURANO 8K Lab Test: Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range, and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/sony-burano-8k-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
(01:08:20) - Panasonic LUMIX GH7 Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range and Latitude
https://www.cined.com/panasonic-lumix-gh7-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-latitude/
(01:13:53) -Blackmagic URSA Cine 12K LF Lab Test: Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range, and Exposure Latitude
https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-ursa-cine-12k-lf-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/
(01:21:50) - Outlook of 2025 in terms of Sensor technology
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep44 - Our WORST and BEST Camera Gear Purchases Ever

Let’s be honest — everyone in the filmmaking industry has experienced this at some point in their career. You get super hyped about a certain piece of gear, spend a ton of money on it, and then realize it’s not as good as you thought or doesn’t suit the kind of projects you work on most. In this episode, Johnnie and Nino dive into exactly that, sharing their wins and fails from their careers. Tune in to hear their stories and learn from their mistakes!
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check it out at 17:17
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
 
(00:00) - Intro
 
(02:46) - Johnnies best Camera purchase of his career
 
(07:41)- Nino’s first Camera purchase
 
(12:47) - Nino’s investment in the Canon C300
 
(15:40) - Johnnie and his time shooting with the Canon 1DC
 
(18:33) - Why it’s more difficult to justifying expensive cameras to clients?
 
(22:34) - The best and worst decision when it comes to editing
 
(28:19) - Nino’s biggest gear regret
 
(35:32) - What Lenses were a good investment?
 
Reviews mentioned:
https://www.cined.com/zeiss-lwz3-21100mmt2939-announced-ultimate-documentary-cine-zoom/
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 
 

ep43 - LUMIX GH7 Review | URSA Cine Immersive | Poll: Leica Cine Camera?

Tune in to this pre-Christmas episode and join Johnnie and Felix as we chat about his much-anticipated long-term review of the LUMIX GH7, which he’s been working on for the past six months.
We’ll talk about the camera’s 32-bit float audio integration and what it brings to the table. Plus, we’ll have some fun speculating about what a Leica Cine Camera might look like—if it ever became a reality.
Don’t miss out—come along for the conversation and see where it takes us!
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check it out at 24:14
 
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
(00:00) - Intro
 
(02:05) - CineD Holiday Gear Giveaway – $20,000 in Prizes to Upgrade Your Kit
https://www.cined.com/cined-holiday-gear-giveaway-20000-in-prizes-to-upgrade-your-kit/
 
(04:36) - Panasonic LUMIX GH7 Review - Spending Six Months With Panasonic Flagship Mirrorless Camera for Video
Link is coming soon
 
(14:59) - Poll: Would You Want Leica to Come Out with a Dedicated CINE Camera?
https://www.cined.com/poll-would-you-want-leica-to-come-out-with-a-dedicated-cine-camera/
 
(25:15) - Nikon Z 9 Firmware Update 5.10 Released – Shutter Angle Added & Video Enhancements
https://www.cined.com/nikon-z-9-firmware-update-5-10-released-shutter-angle-added-video-enhancements/
 
(27:35) - Blackmagic URSA Cine Immersive is Available for Pre-Order, Supports Apple Vision Pro
https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-ursa-cine-immersive-is-available-for-pre-order-supports-apple-vision-pro/
 
(33:20) - BLAZAR REMUS 1.5x Anamorphic Full-Frame Lenses in Blue & Amber Flare to be Discontinued
https://www.cined.com/blazar-remus-1-5x-anamorphic-full-frame-lenses-in-blue-amber-flare-to-be-discontinued/
 
(36:59) - Cooke S4 and S4/i Lenses Discontinued – End of an Era
https://www.cined.com/cooke-s4-and-s4-i-lenses-discontinued-end-of-an-era/
 
(38:02) - Thypoch Simera-C 5-Lens Set Adds M-Mount for Mirrorless Camera Compatibility
https://www.cined.com/thypoch-simera-c-5-lens-set-adds-m-mount-for-mirrorless-camera-compatibility/
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com 

ep42 - Nexus G1 camera | ARRI ALEXA 265 announced | OpenAI Sora open for public

There are two new kids on the block in the world of filmmaking: the ARRI ALEXA 265 and the Nexus G1 camera prototype, both recently unveiled. Tune in to this episode for an in-depth discussion about these exciting releases and much more on cameras and filmmaking. Don’t miss it!
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by FUJIFILM. Check it out at 18:01
 
Chapters & articles mentioned in this episode:
(00:00) - Intro
 
(03:35) - CineD Cameras of the Year 2024 – And the Winners Are …
https://www.cined.com/cined-cameras-of-the-year-2024-and-the-winners-are/
 
(19:00) - Nexus G1 Final Design & Prototype Unveiled – 6K S35 Blackmagic Sensor, Modular
https://www.cined.com/nexus-g1-final-design-prototype-unveiled-6k-s35-blackmagic-sensor-modular/
 
(32:08) - ARRI ALEXA 265 Announced – A Small and Lightweight 65mm Camera
https://www.cined.com/arri-alexa-265-announced-a-small-and-lightweight-65mm-camera/
 
(41:45) - B&H Deals – Heavily Reduced Prices on Leica SL2-S and Leica SL2 Cameras
https://www.cined.com/gear-guides/bh-deals-heavily-reduced-prices-on-leica-sl2-s-and-leica-sl2-cameras/
 
(43:36) - OpenAI Sora Now Available for Public Use – Controversy Ensued
https://www.cined.com/openai-sora-now-available-for-public-use-controversy-ensued/
MKBHD’s Sora review:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OY2x0TyKzIQ
 
(59:40) - Video Editing Year-In-Review: Software Trends from 2023 to 2024
https://www.cined.com/video-editing-year-in-review-software-trends-from-2023-to-2024/
 
(01:04:16) - DJI Power Expansion Battery 2000 Introduced for the DJI Power 1000
https://www.cined.com/dji-power-expansion-battery-2000-introduced-for-the-dji-power-1000/
 
(01:08:02) - RØDE Wireless GO (Gen 3) Wireless Microphone System Released – Pro Features, Colors, and Affordable
https://www.cined.com/rode-wireless-go-gen-3-wireless-microphone-system-released-pro-features-colors-and-affordable/
 
We hope you enjoyed this episode!You have feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us at podcast@cined.com