Cinema 4K Camera for your DJI Inspire 1
- D55
- Sep 17, 2015
- 3 min read
Image: DJI http://www.dji.com/product/zenmuse-x5s
Once again DJI has stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the park with their new Zenmuse X5 and X5R Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras. DJI has launched two different models, the X5 and X5R which are both interchangeable with the stock X3 camera on the Inspire 1 giving you the ability to capture true lossless cinema 4K RAW video. Both new cameras feature MFT interchangeable lens compatibility, high dynamic range, aperture control and remote focus. On paper the X5 and X5R are both professional cinema grade 4K cameras and are also considered the first set of MFT cameras in the world that have been specifically designed for aerial cinematography and photography.
Image: DJI http://www.dji.com/product/zenmuse-x5s
The cameras both feature large 4/3 CMOS sensors which is eight times the size of the X3 camera included with the Inspire 1. The new MFT sensor puts it in the same ball park as the Panasonic GH4 and allows the X5 and X5R cameras to shoot superior quality 4K video and 16MP high resolution photos. The X5 can shoot 4K video up to 30fps with a max bitrate of 60Mbps but the big game changer is the X5Rs ability to shoot cinema grade lossless 4K RAW video with a maximum bitrate of 2.4Gbps (1.7Gbps average). In other words real 4K RAW video. The larger sensor also accommodates a higher ISO range of 100-25600. Only time will tell if you will be able to actually utilize the higher ISO. As many have found out the hard way, shooting at ISO 1600 or above on the standard X3 on the Inspire 1 results in unbelievable noisy footage which makes it unusable without fixing it in post. Fingers crossed DJI rectified this with the X5 series. Only time and flying will tell if they perform as well as advertised.
Image: DJI http://www.dji.com/product/zenmuse-x5s
Both models have a built in Zenmuse 3-axis digitally stabilized gimbal for that great Zenmuse stabilization we all love using to capture beautiful and unimaginable shots easily and smoothly. The X5 and X5R mounts directly to the Inspire 1 but requires a Zenmuse X5 vibration plate in place of the standard X3 vibration plate. No word if the standard X3 can mount onto the new X5 vibration plate for easy swap-ability but my guess is no. Since both run on the Inspire 1 you get the same camera controls from the DJI Go app while on the ground such as ISO, aperture, focus and shutter controls.
Another big upgrade from the X3 is the increased dynamic range. The X5 and X5R both feature 12.8 stops of dynamic range, which is ideal for capturing clear images including shadows and other highlights. With the X5 and X5R, aerial cinematographers can capture crisper and more detailed shots as opposed to what they could have achieved earlier. DJI has not released the price or a release date for the Zenmuse X5R but the X5 is listed on DJI’s site at $2199 and $1699 without the lens. You’ll also need the $99 vibration plate if youre going to mount it on the Inspire 1. DJI aslo announced the Inspire 1 Pro which comes stock with the X5 for $4499 - no word if the Inspire 1 was upgraded as well.
Image: DJI http://www.dji.com/product/zenmuse-x5s
Image: DJI http://www.dji.com/product/lightbridge-2
DJI also announced the Lightbridge 2 and a brand new Remote Focus Controller. The Lightbridge 2 is capable of broadcasting 1080P high-definition footage live over a longer range then before at 1.2 miles. It also upgrades the HD broadcasting capabilities to accommodate professional HD live broadcasting with 3G-SDI, USB, mini-HDMI ports which support video output up to 1080p/60fps or broadcast standard output of 720p/59.94fps and 1080i/50fps. The Remote Focus Controller gives you precise focus control with a familiar physical focus wheel that professional 1st AC camera operators are used to. DJI has not announced the price for the Remote Focus Controller but the Lightbridge 2 is listed on DJI’s site at $1399 with the original Lightbidge dropping down to $999.
SOURCE: DJI