Strap For Street Photography
Links for parts:
Cage:
iPhone 15 Pro Max Cage (2nd Generation):
Strap:
Evergreen 38inch Neck Shoulder Slim Camera Strap
D-Ring:
If you can afford a higher quality strap, I'd recommend: FabHandCrafted.com
Review: Zacuto Smart Z-Finder
Overcoming Outdoor Filmmaking Challenges
Filming with an iPhone in bright sunlight has always been a challenge. The glare makes it nearly impossible to accurately judge exposure, sharpness, and framing. Expressions are hard to discern, and unwanted elements often creep into shots. When reviewing footage later, I’m frequently surprised—usually not in a good way. This is a significant issue for serious projects like dramas, commercials, or documentaries.
Discovering the Zacuto Smart Z-Finder
Frustrated by these challenges, I turned to the Zacuto Smart Z-Finder, designed specifically for smartphones. Upon receiving it, I was immediately impressed by its sturdy yet lightweight construction. The package included everything needed: the Z-Finder, phone bridge, hand strap, hex key, masks, diopters, and more. Assembly was straightforward, and the design's careful engineering was evident throughout.
Practical Use and Impressions
Using the Smart Z-Finder has dramatically improved my outdoor shooting experience. The viewfinder provides exceptional image quality with clear, detailed visuals, making it easy to adjust settings on the go. The side-hand strap and magnetic lock enhance the setup's comfort and security.
Final Thoughts
The Zacuto Smart Z-Finder has quickly become an indispensable tool in my mobile filmmaking kit. It effectively addresses the challenge of shooting in bright sunlight, offering a clear, detailed view that allows for accurate scene capture. With its solid build, thoughtful design, and lightweight feel, it’s the best solution I’ve found for smartphone cinematography.
Link: https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=Zacuto+Smart+Z-Finder&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8
Recommended viewing:
https://youtu.be/jTbmyUDxLvs?si=hRuHrWGb2I0zxcEg
Gear For iPhone Filmmaking
The Beastcage By Beastgrip
All cages are compared to this industry standard
The Beastgrip camera cage for the iPhone is designed for those looking to enhance their mobile photography and filmmaking setup. It offers a precise fit and easy setup—simply insert your iPhone, snap the cage shut, and you're ready to shoot.
Key Features:
Precise Fit: No additional adjustments needed; the cage is tailored for the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Lens Compatibility: Supports lenses and filters from Beastgrip, Moment, Sandmarc, and more.
Customizable Rig: Multiple mounting options, including ¼"-20 accessory mounts, a cold shoe, and neck strap mounts, allow for various attachments.
Durable Build: Made from machined anodized aluminum, the cage is built to last.
Easy Access: The design includes cutouts for speakers and the charging port, with mechanical buttons for power and volume control.
This cage provides a solid, customizable option for improving your mobile filmmaking or photography experience.
The Smallrig RC30B COB LED LIGHT
Small but versatile
The RC 30B COB LED Video Light has quickly become my favorite when shooting with my iPhone, despite owning many traditional film lights. It’s compact, versatile, and offers excellent lighting control.
Highlights:
Adjustable Beam Angle: The light’s beam can be precisely adjusted from 15° to 60°, giving you tailored lighting for any scene.
High Light Quality: With a CRI of 96+, TLCI of 96+, and a CCT range of 2700K-6500K, it delivers accurate and vibrant color rendering.
Bright Illumination: Achieving nearly 43,400 lux at 5 meters with a 15° beam angle, it provides powerful lighting when needed.
Secure Design: The locking power cable ensures a safe and reliable connection.
Versatile Controls: Features like the 4-leaf barndoor and umbrella hole make light shaping easy, and I’ve even adapted it to hold a diffusing dome from another light.
User-Friendly: Plug-and-play setup with memory functions for CCT and intensity makes it simple to use.
In short, the RC 30B’s portability and flexibility have made it an essential tool in my mobile filmmaking kit.
RC 30B LED Link:
Small White Umbrella Link: