I showed a simple way to motorize a Juicedlink slider, but didn't have time to go out for some full video clip samples. If you're wondering how smoothly it actually works, Vimeo member Chad Johnson has a review and provides some excellent examples of slider movements along with a JuicedLink jingle. You can find all the JuicedLink slider options over at the JL site (click here).
JuicedLink DIY Slider Kit
A teaser shot 100% on GoPro HD cameras, showing what can kind of 'bullet-time' effect can be accomplished with the worlds first GoPro HD Video array. Firing off dozens of networked still cameras in a single frame is a technical hurdle for most, so a more popular idea is to extract a single video frame from each video clip. This is a time consuming post process, which looks like how this project was pulled off. I can't be sure, but a similar project was done using DSLRs not too long ago. [Thanks Jason]
Linco is showing off a new light head that can be turned on/off with an included remote. The only problem is that from the specs, each head is linked to it's own remote. If you're running a few of these in studio, I can see how carrying a pocket full of remotes can get ugly confusing. Outside of the wireless remote gimmick, these Linco lights are one of the best performing CFL lighting kits for the buck with brighter light output, better color temperature, and less flickering. The heads are more durable and the proprietary umbrella-like softbox breaks down and sets up quick. It's about twice the price of the cheaper CFL Softbox lights I'm using in studio. Mine suck if you ever have to travel with them, but luckily they don't need to leave the building. The Linco Flora lighting kits are available on both Amazon (click here)
Linco CFL Flora Lighting Kits Softbox
A little tour of the Ruige TL-S701HDA 7" monitor with a Panasonich GH2 from Vimeo member James Bamford. Unlike some smaller versions from Ruige, this 7" monitor has HDMI in and also HDMI out. Towards the end of the video, you'll see the linear zoom remote test. First click zooms in, second click turns on 'Focus Peaking' so you can get focused, and finally third click returns to normal viewing. Accessories (some optional) available are a Sunhood, HDMI lock, Linear Zoom Remote Trigger, Battery Adapter plates, and D-Tap power cord.
The resolution on this Ruige is higher than 7" Lilliput monitors at 1024(H)×600(V), and it's a nice 7" monitor if you need something this big. If you don't need the size or that high of a resolution, you could get a 4" SmallHD DP4 for about the same price which can later be upgaded with their EVF Loupe view finder. You can find the Ruige on eBay (click here)
Video demo from Vimeo member claire showcases the Wondlan Sniper Rods, BasePlate, and Follow Focus. I still can't get over the color, and the price isn't very competitive with what's on the market currently. I just got news that the RJ Budget Follow Focus is getting a special baseplate mount. This means that the Follow Focus can be used without rails. We'll start seeing that pop up soon, unless someone already knows where to find it.
I'm sure many of you already know about this particular Velbon fluid head
If you're just starting out with a GH2, Olympus Pen, or Sony NEX-5n camera you'll get some truly fluid movements with this sub $30 dollar fluid head. It's no wonder this fluid head gets rave reviews over at Amazon
Size Comparison (Left) Manfrotto 701HDV (Right) Velbon Fluid Head
Don't get the bundled tripods as i've heard nothing but horror stories. You'd be better off buying another one like the 190XDB from Manfrotto (found here). Don't overload the thing. I used a Canon 5D Mark II and Canon 100mm Macro F/2.8 which worked well, but the head does not have a 'balance' feature so it wanted to tilt forward with the heavy lens. It's too bad the build quality comes in short, because the performance is truly amazing for such a cheap head. Often you'll find the head on sale as low as $26 dollars, and for a spare head on your DSLR video slider, track dolly, or even one for your Monopod it's a deal. You can find them on sale at B&H (click here)
Velbon PH-368 Video Fluid Head
or at Amazon (click here) available at both B&H and Amazon (click here)
Velbon Fluid Video Tripod head - via Amazon
Canon at one point sold these little 300mm/400mm Image Stabilized Lens Replica Keychain LED Flashlights which quickly sold out. I managed to track one down for my random collection. The Flashlight is only about 2" long and 1" wide with a single LED bulb. There are no on/off buttons to manage the flashlight. To turn on/off the flashlight you'll need to turn the lens body which seats the battery connection inside. On the side of the lens is the keyring which includes a Canon charm (opposite side stays 'Image Stabilized').
The little item is now being represented on my backpack.
So random, but a very cool gift idea if you can track 'em down. There's only one spot to find them on eBay (click here)
Canon Lens Replica KeyChain LED FlashLight
Sad to hear all the rumors of large Photo corporations filing or close to filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and now Ritz Camera is on the list. Kodak has also been getting quite a bit of attention with the stock price falling, but they have assured people they are not ready to file. Short piece of press quote regarding Ritz:
"On August 19, 2011, Ritz Interactive, Inc. filed a petition with the court to avail itself of the protections and provisions provided by Chapter 11"
Apple's homepage changed earlier today in memory of Steve Jobs.
