New product announcement. Dedicated to manufacturing products for the budget filmmaker, Kamerar has made available a new consumer budget friendly QV-1 LCD View Finder that attaches to a baseplate through a unique Magnetic system.
After discovering dslr video consumers lacked options for a sub $80 dollar high quality view finder with professional features, we decided to focus on the QV-1 LCD View Finder product. We feel consumers will also be excited with the new QB-15 Quick Base system that will make attaching 15mm rails for accessories a breeze. - team Kamerar
*This view finder is not designed to work with very tall camera bodies like the 1D series, nor will it work with battery grips attached.
The QV-1 magnification is 2.5x, uses a flip up method to work as a sunshade or to access touch screen lcds, and has rotating diopter. The QV-1 slides directly into a magnetic slot behind the adapter plate, allowing easy mounting and dismounting from the camera body. Ships with a lanyard neck strap, microfiber cleaning cloth, adapter plate, and QV-1 view finder.
One interesting note that some may find useful is that the baseplate is similar enough in design that it can mount directly to a Manfrotto 701HDV Fluid Head, or to compatible quick release baseplate systems that support the Manfrotto 501PL.
Regardless, the QV-1 baseplate still offers an optically centered 1/4"-20 tripod hole for you to attach any Quick Release of your choice (including another Manfrotto if you so choose).
The more expensive QV-1 Kit includes a new QB-15 Quick Base Adapter that clamps 15mm Rails to the QV-1 baseplate (8" rails are included). This kit provides users with a very simple and cost effective way to add a set of rails to any camera.
For more information on these products check out the product page at https://PhotographyandCinema.com.
QV-1 LCD View Finder + QV-1 Kit with QB-15 Quick Base
Manu
Hi!!
I have two questions,
will it work with Sony A99?? and the other question is, when i mount this viewfinder on the camera, can i attach another thing under the camera? do i have another thread under?
Thanks!!
ak
The problem with this model is you cant install it on a camera which already has a metabones adapter..has to be on a camera without an adapter. Wont work on my sony A7s
meeya
Hi, and thank you for the prompt respond. I just purchased it at the local Kamerar re-seller here. I've uploaded couple of quick photos. These photos are not the highest quality, all I had with me was my lousy Galaxy Nexus, so forgive me for bad photo quality. I just wanted to show that QV-1 fits perfectly on Canon 7D LCD screen. Not a single button is covered, and there is no vignetting at all. As you're moving away from viewfinder, image gets distorted (naturally), but once you're looking through the viewfinder, I am assuring you, there is no image distortion at all. Quality glass optics inside give beautifully sharp reproduction and super vibrant colors. See gallery here: https://imgur.com/a/6Vpfo#0
Emm
Post author@meeya - I don't have a 7D to test, but the measurements are very clear on the product page. The "OD = outside diamter" is where the view finder would end up. If you measure the 7D and compare to the measurements, you can tell if it will block anything.
meeya
Hi, still no info on how it fits on Canon 7D? New one MagView by Kamerar is out and in 3 sizes. Kamerar recommends 4:3 for 7D. Could you confirm QV-1 is not covering buttons and not vignetting? Thanks!
Dan P
Being heavily far sighted I need to know: how may dioptres does it actually correct? Thanks to the gentle soul who will answer
Mukki
Thanks Emm. That looks modify-able to make fit.
I am currently using the varavon uni that works fine on the pocket minus 3mm or so coverate on each end of the screen, just no quick release unfortunately.
This is a really good cheaper solution for hot swapping between two bodies.
Thanks
Emm
Post author@Mukki - Here's the FAQ https://pncgear.tv/faq/does-the-qv-1-fit-a-black-magic-magic-pocket-cinema.html
Mukki
can you be abit more specific as to why it won't fit the BMPCC? Baseplate cannot be moved forward enough to make the loupe sit flush to the body? is there enough meat on the plate to machine the extra length to fit?
Emm
Post author@John - The QV-1 cannot be used with taller cameras or cameras with a battery grip.
John
I like the design. No bolts and nuts sticking out. I was wondering why would any one go for the V4. What the advantage of V4 over V1 one?
Emm
Post author@ysjack - This QV-1 does not fit the BMPC.
ysjack
Please let us know if it fits on the BMPCC. Thanks!!
Emm
Post author@Oskar Neuhold - It's perfectly fine.
Oskar Neuhold
A "strong magnet" that close to the inner, electronic, working of the camera would concern me. Has this issue been addressed in any way with camera manufacturers?
iain
ok thanks Emm... will wait until they bring out the new baseplate... don't suppose you know how close that is?
Emm
Post author@iain - It still would not line up properly.
iain
hi emm, would using this with the fhugen GH3 cage solve the problem of the adapter being too close to the body on the GH3?
Emm
Post author@Scott - Yes the rails are industry standard so it will mount with any dual rod clamp, follow focus, matte box, etc.
Scott
@Matt. Yeah I think I was the squeaky wheel that got the oil started with the base plates. Truth be told they agreed to sell me additional ones back when I placed my order. I also tried to convince them why it would be good for their business to offer those plates by them selves. 😉
@Emm - I'm looking at getting the QB 15 as well but I'm curious are they a standard width apart and diameter? I've never had rails so am wondering if these are compatible with other accessories from other companies too, like matt boxes and follow focus, or are they proprietary?
Thanks,
Scott
Matt
@Scott -
You can buy more baseplates straight from the Kamerar website here
https://kamerar.com/products/qv-1-manfrotto-501pl-quick-release-plate
jpb
i can confirm it does not work with the GH3.
called Kamerar for an RMA and all is well.
Emm
Post author@Paul - Magnets are not healthy for CRT monitors not LCD screen. Magnets are not healthy for magnetic storage systems, but all cameras use solid state media like compact flash or SD cards. This magnet is harmless to cameras..
Paul
I'm concerned about that magnet. Isn't it a bad idea to put a strong magnet right up there next to the LCD and all the electronics? Have you heard of any problems with that?
Emm
Post author@ben - I would contact them before making assumptions. I believe there is a return policy. Just send them an email.
ben
As many comments as there are in this thread, there was never a definitive comment confirming whether this view finder is compatible with the Panasonic GH2 or GH3 (although the question was asked several times). Also no where on the Photography & Cinema or Kamerar websites does it state if it works with the GH2 or GH3. In fact there is no compatibility list at all (it just says "Designed to Fit... performed to fit a variety of popular DSLR Cameras that use a 3"-3.2" LCD screen."). Well I just received mine and I can confirm that in its present form, the QV-1 does NOT fit the GH2 and most likely does not fit the GH3. I understand that there is some kind of mount being designed for this issue, but it would have been nice to be informed that this view finder in its present form does not work with these cameras. There is no return policy listed on their website. I feel like I've thrown my money away.
If you own a Panasonic GH2 or GH3, don't make the same mistake I did. And to the seller: please disclose this on your website so that you don't disappoint buyers who want to use it with these cameras.
Emm
Post author@Kelly - Maybe it's just a matter of time. I'm sure if they hear enough requests, it'll happen.
Kelly
I'll have to agree with Scott on this one Emm. I bought 2 of their viewfinders and yes, they are excellent!! However it would be nice to buy separate QR plates if you have more than 1 camera. I shoot with 4 different Canon cameras in weddings, and it would be EXTREMELY easier to just pop the VF on and off different cameras rather than going through the nusiance of unscrewing one and screwing the whole thing on to another......just saying 🙂
Scott
@Emm - There's no reason they shouldn't sell them to me especially when I'm buying 3 of the viewfinders. If they offer a solution for sale they should make the additional parts available to implement it into the customers workflow. It doesn't make any sense to not sell the QR plate. Every other LCD viewfinder manufacturer sells their mounts (magnetic adhesive frames or other base plates) separately...
Emm
Post author@Scott - It's a shame the QR plates aren't available separately, but I wouldn't say that the response was totally unacceptable.
Scott
Ran into a problem with Photography & Cinema... I need to buy a couple extra QR plates for the extra cameras in my kit and they apparently won't sell them. This was their response which is unacceptable IMO.
"Dear Scott,
We are sorry that we don't sell it separately. Thanks for your understanding!
Sincerely,
Photography & Cinema Customer Service"
coons30
Just got my QV-1 yesterday. Great product, very happy with the build quality and the magnetic quick release is awesome. Only gripe I have is that even with the diopter adjusted all the way in the eyepiece still sits far enough away from the LCD screen that I can't use it without wearing my glasses. Something for people to think about if they have bad eyesight like me, but the eyecup is pretty generous so I'm still able to use it glasses and all just fine.
Emm
Post author@Scott - Thanks, i'll send the link to your comment.
Scott
@Emm - One thing I forgot to mention if you happen to have the manufacturers ear. The 2 allen screws that control up and down position of the VF are too long. WHen you tighten them they go all the way thru and push against the QR plate and basically push it away from the VF affecting how far the toungue goes in. They should be maybe 1/16" shorter (or whatever that is in MM).
Emm
Post author@Scott - Glad it's working out for you! Thanks for sharing the input on those cameras.
Scott
More info for those who may come back here... I tried it on all my cameras: 6D, 60D and T3i. Set the viewfinder position (with the allen screws) so that it fit the 6D best and the positioning still worked fine on the 60D and T3i. Very happy with the build quality and function. I'm going to buy a bunch now.
Thank you Emm for this great resource as you've helped me make purchases that assist me in my business everyday!
Scott
Ok, got mine today. With the viewfinder mounted the camera will lock into the 577, 701 (as you said) and 501 with sufficient contact to lock in the camera. Problem I didn't think thru though...the spacial relationship of the LCD to the mounting plate. Different cameras may need different adjustments of the viewfinder which requires an allen wrench. Kind of a bummer that I hadn't thought of.
Scott
@emm - Just hoping for a more elegant solution instead of adding a second plate and creating a Frankstein kind of contraption. One wouldn't be a big deal but I would have to outfit 6 to 8 cameras the same way. I would love to not have the long 501 plate on it anyway since it/s annoying how it sticks out. If the back of the camera can be mounted flush with the back of a 577 QR base I would be pretty happy too.
Emm
Post author@Scott - Why not just add your QR plate under the QV-1? The base is optional, not required. It will definitely lock if you just mount your Manfrotto QR under it.
Scott
If anyone can test if this will lock into place on a 501 head with the viewfinder attached can you please comment with the results? Can't believe they would design this thing and not think of that. Seems like a huge oversight.
Emm
Post author@Dagan - It feels about the same, I could try to weigh them on my kitchen scale.
Dagan
@ Emm
Oh what about the weight? In comparison, is this one half the weight of the vf-4?
Emm
Post author@Scott - I'm not sure if it will slide far enough into a 501 to lock. It just makes it on the 701HDV.
Scott
Never mind, I got it. I'm buying 6 of these... 🙂 This is the Holy Grail of viewfinders for my purposes. Are they going to sell just the plate? I have more cameras than I have pairs of eyes...
Scott
With the viewfinder attached, will their short plate push into the 501 head enough to lock it in place for use on the tripod? Kinda confused by your comments about this....
Thanks!
Softland
Hi all. Anyone tested this on a Lumix GH3 yet? I've e-mailed the people at Kamerar and they are saying that a new adapter/plate is being designed specifically for the GH3. I wonder if this is simply to allow the battery hatch to be open once ViewFinder is mounted?
Editwizard
@ Dagan
Ah ok, I didn't realize the 7D had a smaller screen.
Dagan
@ Emm
Thanks! I would really like to see.
@EditWizard
Well, it's because this viewfinder is designer to fit larger screen that it concerns me you know? I will probably buy them next week. This came out just in time because I was just about to fork it over for 3 of the VF-4's...
Editwizard
@ Dagan
I don't see why it wouldn't be fine on the 7D - I was using the older VF3 on the 5D3 and all buttons were accessible although just a little tight. This new one is just a little slimmer. Fits perfectly around all controls - left and right side. The fact that it can adjust from 5D3 to the EOS M should say a lot.
And I should add that the QR plate solves the main reason why I stopped using 501/577 plates - they are so long that the front corner always digs into my left palm as well as being more awkward to remove from the head. This shorter plate is angled on that front edge and much more comfortable to hand-hold and goes on/off the head quicker since you don't have to slide it so far.
Emm
Post author@Dagan - I'll try to test this out, but it won't be until next week.
Dagan
@ Emm
Wow okay, that works. Last question, it's like everyone forgot about the 7D! Would you mind testing it on your 7D? I would like to know if it clears the buttons so it doesn't cover it.
Thank you!
Editwizard
Wow, just received mine today and it's really REALLY impressive. I think it's much better than the VF3. Doesn't vignette, it's actually clearer/sharper (similar to the old carryspeed Vfinder but now it has the QR plate which is THE killer feature. The magnet is really strong - if anything it's a little tough to remove haha.
Tried it on all my tripods, monopod and another extra add-on QR clamp that I use for other variously mounts - all fit perfectly. There's probably about 1 inch of adjustment forward and back once it's on the tripod. But it's already at a pretty decent spot placing the camera body toward the back of the head so the lens is forward.
EOS M - fits wonderfully. At first it seems like it's a bit high but the entire LCD is covered. Flip up and you can access the touch-screen. The problem though is the plate blocks the battery door. But, this is no different than any other plate. I haven't figured a good way around this yet short of hanging the camera from the hotshoe!
Emm
Post author@Nick - Just tested on a few Canon cameras. Rebel T2i, T3i, T4i, Canon 5D Mark III, Mark II, all good. Should be just fine on 7D as well.
Nick
@Emm - I'd be using a 7D & 5Ds (mark II & III)
Emm
Post author@D - Good question, unfortunately I don't have one to test. Hopefully someone sends in some comments if it works or not.
D
Could you use this on a EOS-M and still have the battery compartment assessable?
Emm
Post author@Dagan - It's very hard to simply pop it off. The design uses a long tongue that has to insert precisely into a deep slot. You cannot remove this from the camera unless you pull it directly backwards and away from the deep slot.
Dagan
I am very curious about the magnet and if it is strong enough to keep it in case of knocking it down.
Emm, does this pop off as easily as the cheaper LCDVF's? I have those and the problem with them is they pop off TOO easy accidentally... I am hoping this isn't the same case.
Ross
If it worked on a gh1 i would love the kit...
John
I really wish this was released 2 years ago, before I bought my zacuto evf (great product, too pricey).
Really love how the plate fits 501 manfrotto tripods!
Emm
Post author@Rob S. - With the LCD View Finder attached, it will not sit in the head properly. If you remove the LCD view finder it will sit in the head and you can lock it, but you can't slide it forward or backwards.
Rob S.
Emm, do you know if the plate works on the new Manfrotto 500 series heads? When I say works, I mean able to drop in like the newer grooved plates do. Thanks.
N Smith
This is the exact viewfinder product I would have wished for. I am shocked that with the unified 501 plate it is also priced so reasonably. In for 1, possibly another at this price.
coons30
I second Nick's question. I'm using a t3i and if the plate covers the battery door it's a deal breaker 🙁
Emm
Post author@Nick - I believe so, but let me confirm. What camera body are you using?
Nick
Can you swap batteries on a DSLR without removing it from the baseplate? or is the knob in the way?
richard
Thanks Emm
Emm
Post author@richard - The view finder actually fits the LCD much better than the VF-4, but the adapter sits too close to the body. I've already advised them about this, and they said they are already working on a different baseplate to support other cameras.
richard
will it work with the GH3? Rather get this then the VF4 since I will have to get quite few of them. Plus the rails attachment looks great. very light system.
Emm
Post author@Kelly - This doesn't use two optical elements to adjust the diopter, it just moves one lens further or closer away from the mount. It's a cheaper way to attempt focusing. Might not be as good as the other ways people are doing it.
Kelly
Is there any vignetting like Carry Speed VF-3 does?
Jeff
Will this fit a gh2?
Jason
Emm, can you comment on the optical quality (or other things to note) of the QV-1 vs the Carryspeed VF-4? I was about to pull the trigger on the VF-4 but the 501PL compatibility is very appealing.
Greg
If this fits on the GH3, I'm ordering one today. (sorry if this comment showed up twice- not sure what happened to the first one).
Greg
Please let us know if it fits on the GH3. Thanks!!
Larry
Ah yes! Exactly what I've been looking for... the VF3 is great but the plate has always been a pain to use with other quick releases- so I'll move that for use on my 2nd cam!
Bruce Philpott
This is a great solution! I don't like loupes which attach with adhesive, I dislike the hotshoe-mounted type, and I don't want yet another thing between my camera and my rails.
Keith
Very curious to know if this will work with GH2 as I've not had success with other models on the GH2.