Post #2
Smart Z-Finder Observations
In my opinion, shooting with the iPhone in bright sunlight is incredibly frustrating. Judging exposure, subject sharpness, and framing accurately becomes difficult, and I can't always see people's expressions clearly. This often leads to unwanted elements creeping into my shots. When I check the footage on my computer later, it's like seeing it for the first time, and I'm often surprised by what I've captured.
This setup just isn't up to par for drama, commercials, or documentaries. When you're shooting, the image on the viewfinder or screen is your window into the scene and should let you react in real-time. However, with the iPhone in sunlight, I can't fully immerse myself or connect with the moment, capturing the true essence of what's happening as I normally do.
I had similar challenges when I started using DV and mirrorless cameras. Back then, I made my own viewfinders and loops before eventually buying pre-made ones. So, I thought it was time to do the same for my iPhone.
But when I saw a video explaining the Zacuto Smart Z-Finder, I decided to give it a try.
Zacuto Smart Z-Finder - Let's Talk About Smartphone Filmmaking!
https://youtu.be/jTbmyUDxLvs?si=p4-kmVJcAcQJT1Sl
When the Smart Z-Finder arrived, I opened the box and examined it, and I was impressed. It's sturdy yet lightweight. First impressions are important, and right away, I liked it.
The box contained the Z-Finder, the bridge which holds the phone, a hand strap, a hex key, two sets of masks, a top light baffle, four different strength diopters, and three extra anti-fog discs. There’s an accessory rail which could hold a brow or microphone, etc. It’s been milled from one piece of aluminum, making it strong yet lightweight. The wood handle fits my large hand perfectly. It has an oiled wood finish, likely hardwood, but feels light.
Assembling the Z-Finder reveals the careful thought and engineering behind its design. The attention to detail becomes evident as you put it together and make adjustments. For instance, the inside top of the finder is grooved, likely to prevent reflections from bouncing off the black material.
How To Set Up Your Smart Z-Finder, viewfinder for mobile phones
https://youtu.be/cDXhX6k9lD0?si=eaRJfHj-zokXjIRe
I followed the instructions and watched the YouTube tutorial. The phone mount has a barcode that brings up an image with a witness mark. This works well, but I worried about needing internet access each time I mounted the phone. To solve this, I captured a frame grab of the image so I wouldn’t need the internet. Then, I realized I could align the phone with the witness marks on the Blackmagic camera app menu, noting where they lined up. Later, I found it wasn’t a big deal to adjust the camera once inserted before tightening the large red locking knob.
You need to make a few additional adjustments depending on the size of your phone, but once tightened with the hex key, they stay in place. When fully assembled, the unit feels very solid. When disassembling, it takes some effort to break the magnetic lock, which is reassuring. The side-hand strap is great and allows your fingers to rest comfortably on top of the finder. The first time I used it, I felt at home, and the second time, I felt even more confident in its usability. The strongest diopter was +2. I needed +3, so I added a +1 on top of the +2, which worked perfectly. I checked the Zacuto website, and they have a whole range of diopters available, so you don’t need to double up.
In summary, when I first looked through the viewfinder, I was amazed by the quality and size of the image—it’s the best I’ve ever used. The clarity and detail were exceptional, allowing me to see every nuance of the scene. I found it easy to make adjustments with my fingers through the gap at the bottom of the finder. I can see myself using it both outdoors... and indoors.
As I continue to use it, I expect to uncover both its strengths and potential shortcomings. However, my initial experiences have been very positive.
Strap For Street Photography
Links for parts:
Neewer iPhone 15 Pro Max Cage (2nd Generation):
Evergreen 38inch Neck Shoulder Slim Camera Strap:
If you can afford a higher quality strap, I'd recommend: FabHandCrafted.com
Zacuto Smart Z-Finder
Over the years, I've been a regular at NAB, where I first saw the Z-Finder in action back in 2005, thanks to Steve Weiss from Zacuto.
I'm now testing the Zacuto Smart Z-Finder designed for smartphones due to my frustration with filming with the iPhone outdoors in sunlight. Below are my observations on how it performs in different situations.
Post #1
Smart Z-Finder Observations
Begin by watching a review by SMARTPHONE FILMMAKING PRO so we're all on the same page.
Start viewing at 1:05:
https://youtu.be/DQqh7KIWEPo?si=PQM6TWhvKeS34sIF
Preparing for the iPhone 16 Pro Max
There should be space on the Beastgrip Pro Rig for the new Capture Button on the iPhone 16 Pro & Pro Max. If not a new modular part could be easy be made.
Post #3
Smart Z-Finder Observations
There are three versions: the standard Smart Z-Finder, the Directors Rig, which comes with a handle and a Filmmakers version. I'm testing the Directors Rig which didn’t feel very heavy to me. So out of curiosity, I placed all the parts on my kitchen scale. The total weight came to 22 oz (approximately 623.69 grams or 1.375 lbs).
I have definitely have no problem holding 624 grams—it's the lightest camera system I've ever used.