Insta360 Studio Update Brings Easier Editing Experience on Desktop

Posted by Jakub Han on in 360 Video, app, application, desktop app, Gear News, Insta360, Insta360 Studio, Post Production, Software, software update, update
Insta360 Studio has received a new update today that makes importing, editing (such as reframing 360 movies with keyframes), project management, and exporting easier. The desktop app, available for both Windows and macOS computers supports also M1 Macs and it is available now for free to use with Insta360 ONE R, ONE X, ONE X2, and GO 2. Last month, the Chinese camera manufacturer Insta360 updated its mobile app to offer a cleaner shooting interface, smoother editing with new templates in FlashCut, an updated export page with faster exports, and the possibility of using more songs in one video. Today, the desktop app – Insta360 Studio – is also getting a new version. Let’s take a look at what has improved.

Insta360 Studio Update

The Insta360 Studio is a desktop editing software designed to be used with Insta360 cameras such as ONE R, ONE X2 (check our first-look-review here), GO 2, and ONE X. It is available for Windows and Mac OS computers, and it also offers full compatibility with M1 Macs.
New Window on Keyframes. Source: Insta360
The new update focuses on simplifying four main areas of the app workflow:
  • Import. After connecting an Insta360 camera to the computer, the Insta360 Studio will automatically recognize the camera and prompt users to select individual files or import all files saved on the SD card. Once imported, the files will now appear in a sidebar on the left of the interface with three different preview options, including a new thumbnail preview option for a large view of each file’s content. Users can also filter the files by saved location and favorite files for easier access.
Thumbnail Preview on Timeline. Source: Insta360
  • Edit. Reframing 360 footage with keyframes should now be easier according to Insta360. When users click the timeline to add a keyframe, a new window will pop up showing options to adjust the pan angle, tilt angle, roll angle, FOV, and distance. The video timeline has also been revamped, displaying a thumbnail preview when hovering over the timeline. Buttons for tracking targets (Deep Track), adjusting the video speed (TimeShift), and adding motion blur are now easier to find. Last but not least, users can undo operations by clicking the undo icon or pressing ⌘Z, as well as redo operations.
Project Management. Source: Insta360
  • Project Management. On the right sidebar, a new “Project Management” panel is available for editing and saving different versions of the same raw files simultaneously. Users can both clone an edited video or start a new project from the raw file.
  • Export. With the new version of the Insta360 Studio, users can now save their preferred export settings (e.g. resolution, bitrate, and encoding format) as a preset for easier access in the future. The exports can now also be added to a queue, so the edits can be exported together all at once.
Video Export Settings. Source: Insta360

Price and availability

The new Insta360 Studio update is free of charge. The latest version of the application can be downloaded directly from the Insta360 website. Do you use Insta360 cameras for your work? Do you have experience working with the Insta360 Studio? How do you like the new updates? Let us know in the comments section underneath the article.

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Future Moments Releases Mobile Audio Production Apps for macOS

Posted by Yaroslav Altunin on in Audio, audio mastering, Gear News, multitrack, smartphone audio

With the release of the M1 chips on Apple’s new lineup of computers and laptops, the app world seems to perfectly blur the line between mobile and desktop. A company comprised of musicians and engineers didn’t want to wait any longer. This week, Future Moments released their mobile audio production apps for macOS. Let’s see what these literal rockstars and electrotechnical engineers have cooked up for us creatives.

Founded in 2015, Future Moments creates iOS/Android (and now desktop) apps for musicians, filmmakers, podcasters, and voiceover artists. Whatever audio-oriented content you need a tool for, they probably have it. But today, Future Moments is offering three of their mobile apps for macOS on M1-based Macs. And the best part, all this for FREE – as long as you already have the mobile version. MicSwap Multitrack, AudioMaster, and VideoVerb Pro for iOS are now also available to Mac OS users at no additional cost and will automatically be available for download via the App Store. Content creators who rely on mobile devices as part of their workflow, as well as desktop post-production, will find this a welcome addition to their toolkit.

MicSwap MultiTrack

MicSwap MultiTrack is a multitrack recording studio you can use on your phone. And now on your desktop apparently. It enables musicians, podcasters, voiceover artists, YouTubers, and filmmakers to record audio onto separate tracks. Additionally, different microphone models can be added to each track, as well as pan, reverb, and delay. This adds better separation between instruments or voices and ensures a great mix. Here’s a tidy list of all the features:
  • Ability to use standalone. Or with an external mic or interface
  • Record using 20 different microphones models for different sounds
  • Gain adjustment on any microphone
  • Pan or change the volume of each track
  • Add reverb or delay to each track
  • Enable/disable live monitoring
  • AudioCopy enabled
  • Record in WAV or M4A
  • Price: $19.99 via the Apple App Store
Users can also mix down projects in the app and send them directly to AudioMaster for instant mastering. What is AudioMaster? I’m so glad you asked. Let me explain.
Mic swap features. Image Credit: Future Moments

AudioMaster

Available on iOS and macOS, AudioMaster provides non-destructive audio mastering for content creators! Any imported audio track can be enhanced with built-in presets or a 6-band equalizer. Users can then export their audio and/or video in whatever size they wish. While it probably won’t mix your next studio album, these are some amazing features to have at the tips of your fingers, on top of being able to transfer projects between your iPhone and Mac. Here’s another tidy list for those on the go:
  • An audio algorithm automatically adjusts levels to provide general sweetening of audio mixes
  • Add reverb or delay
  • Fully adjustable 6-Band Equalizer
  • Ability to adjust the Frequency, Gain and Q to exact numbers
  • Mute audio
  • Ability to save as WAV or M4A
  • Audiobus, IAA and AUv3 compatible
  • EQ Module Bypass feature
  • Non-destructive
  • Price: $19.99 via Apple App Store (a free trial is available)
AudioMaster Features. Image Credit: Future Moments

VideoVerb Pro

The final app in this Future Moments release is VideoVerb Pro. Straight to the point: VideoVerb enables instant high fidelity reverb and delay effects to videos. The UI is simple and clean, allowing creators a no-nonsense approach to import video from any source and choose from a library of presets. Custom reverb creations are also available for those with perfect pitch who need the levels just right. And one final tidy list:
Future Moments - VideoVerb Features
VideoVerb Features. Image Credit: Future Moments

Million Dollar Question

Do you need these apps? You know what, you probably do. The apps themselves offer some unique tools directly on your smartphone. With the release of the iPhone 13 Pro and its professional-grade codec (a little later), it’ll be amazing to have these options available to you. On top of that, all of these apps are then integrated into your M1 Mac, if you have one that is. For under $60 dollars, these tools are a steal. What do you think about these apps? Have you used them? Would you like to see an in-depth review? Let us know in the comments!

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TTArtisan 40mm F/2.8 APS-C Macro Lens Teased

Posted by Jeff Loch on in 1:1 Magnification Ratio, Gear News, Lenses, macro, macro lens, TTArtisan, TTArtisan 40mm F/2.8 APS-C Macro

Chinese manufacturer TTArtisan has just released a teaser of their upcoming lens: the TTArtisan 40mm F/2.8 APS-C Macro. As its name suggests, this lens covers APS-C sensors, it has a 1:1 magnification ratio, and it should come out at an incredible price. So let’s take a closer look at it!

TTArtisan has built its reputation with fully manual photography lenses at incredible prices in less than two years. The company already released a dozen lenses, including the $150 TTArtisan 7.5mm F/2.0, the $98 priced TTArtisan 50mm F/1.2, and the $73 priced TTArtisan 35mm F/1.4. The company has just started teasing their new lens, the TTArtisan 40mm F/2.8 APS-C Macro, with an exciting game: guess how much it will sell for?

TTArtisan 40mm F/2.8 APS-C Macro features

According to this video released by TTArtisan, the 40mm F/2.8 APS-C Macro will be available in various lens mounts, including Sony E, Canon EOS-M, FUJIFILM X, Micro Four Thirds, and Nikon Z mounts. Obviously, the lens will cover APS-C sensors, and that’s probably why there is no Canon RF mount, for example.
Image credit: TTArtisan
This 40mm F/2.8 Macro will have a 1:1 magnification ratio, which should give you a minimum focusing distance of around 15.2cm/6.4in.
In terms of lens design, the lens consists of 8 elements in 7 groups. Also, it has two low-dispersion elements to reduce chromatic aberrations. The front filter thread is 52mm. Like every other TTArtisan lenses, this 40mm F/2.8 APS-C Macro will be a fully manual lens, mainly made of metal.

Price and availability

At the moment, there is no price nor availability info. However, you can guess how much it will retail for and leave a comment on their YouTube video. If you nail the price right, you might get one for free! What do you think about this new TTArtisan macro lens? Do you prefer manual or autofocus macro lenses? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments down below!

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CVP’s Video Series Shows the Perfect RED KOMODO Setup

Posted by Francesco Andreola on in cvp, how to, RED, RED KOMODO, RED KOMODO 6K, RED Komodo Setup

Over the summer, CVP released a three-part video series that can help you create the perfect RED KOMODO setup. In about 45 minutes, you will get to know almost every accessory currently available for this camera. Not only that, but you will also learn a couple of cool tricks. Let’s take a closer look.

Rigging a camera truly is an art on its own and choosing the right accessories is not always easy. Being a RED KOMODO owner myself, I know how hard and time-consuming this process can be, especially when you have little to no access to rentals or local shops nearby to try the gear out first. Like many other camera manufacturers, RED has been affected by the worldwide shortage of ships that caused delays in the production of this camera. However, the company is now trying to ship them out as fast as they can. So while you’re probably waiting for your KOMODO to be delivered at your front door, you can take a look at this helpful “How to UPGRADE the RED KOMODO“ video series developed by our friends over at CVP.
The RED Komodo 6K. Source: RED

Part 1: cages, side handles & breakouts

The first episode of the series focuses on cages, side handles, and breakout boxes. The cage will be the core component of your RED KOMODO setup. The whole rig builds around it, thus choosing the right one is critical. The video covers cages from pretty much every manufacturer out there and highlights pros and cons of each solution. Moreover, it examines alternatives to the RED KOMODO Outrigger handle and Wing Grip as well as breakout boxes for adding Genlock, Timecode, and CTRL connections to the camera.

Part 2: lenses, adapters & focal reducers

The RED KOMODO’s Canon RF-Mount is an extremely versatile solution. Its short flange distance opens up endless possibilities for adapting almost every lens on the planet. The video explores native RF-mount lenses and adapters but also converted solutions like the Fujinon MK Series cine zoom lenses. Originally designed for E-Mount cameras, these lenses can be converted to RF-Mount by Duclos. Moreover, if you are a RED KOMODO user you should definitely check out the lens coverage tool on the CVP website. It allows you to preview what lenses cover specific shooting modes on the RED KOMODO.

Part 3: batteries, media, monitoring & audio

The last episode in the series investigates different brands and solutions for power, media, monitoring, and audio recording. As RED is slowly leaving behind their expensive Mini Mag system, more affordable third-party media options are becoming available. Among these, one interesting possibility is the Solidpod Plus. Despite not being RED approved, this solution can provide huge storage space at a very affordable price. Moreover, you will learn that putting tape on your cards may cause them to remain stuck in the CFast 2.0 slot. Yes, the tape can melt due to the heat! Finally, another great section of this last episode is a brief, but valuable lesson on the best practices for protecting the one and only SDI port of the RED KOMODO.
Are you a RED KOMODO owner? Did you manage to build the setup of your dreams? Share your solutions in the comments below.

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Z CAM IPMAN Gemini and Gemini Pro Introduced – HDMI Monitoring Adapters

Posted by Jeff Loch on in Accessories, Android Smartphone, Gear News, gemini, Gemini Pro, HDMI to USB Type-C adapter, Smartphone Monitoring, Z CAM, Z CAM IPMAN, Z CAM IPMAN Gemini, Z CAM IPMAN Gemini Pro

Z CAM recently introduced two new video monitoring accessories: the IPMAN Gemini and Gemini Pro. The Gemini is an HDMI to USB Type-C adapter that turns your Android smartphone into an on-camera monitor, but you can also use it for video streaming applications. The Gemini Pro is a dual HDMI to USB Type-C converter, which can be helpful for live streaming applications. Let’s take a closer look at these new adapters!

Chinese manufacturer Z CAM is mainly known for making cinema cameras, including the Z CAM E2 that got 12-bit ProRes RAW support and ProRes 422 internal recording capabilities in all modes. But, Z CAM entered the camera accessories market with their Z CAM EVF and, more recently, the Z CAM IPMAN S wireless video system. The company recently released two new products in their IPMAN lineup: the Z CAM IPMAN Gemini and Gemini Pro.
Image credit: Z CAM

Z CAM IPMAN Gemini features

The Z CAM IPMAN Gemini is an HDMI to USB Type-C converter that can turn your Android smartphone phone into an on-camera monitor. This adapter can take resolutions up to 4K at 30 fps or FullHD 1080p60. Then, the IPMAN Gemini converts this video signal into a 1080p60 max. USB signal. You can connect that USB Type-C output to an Android smartphone or any Mac/PC for live streaming purposes.
Image credit: Z CAM
When connecting the USB Type-C output of the IPMAN Gemini to an Android smartphone, you get access to features such as “false color, gridline display, and magnifier feature for focus pulling,” according to Z CAM. It is not clear if it will require a dedicated smartphone app, but I guess Z CAM will come with its own App. Also, Z CAM mentions that you can get camera control over your smartphone. It means that you can trigger recording, adjust your ISO/Aperture/EV adjustments via your phone, which sounds incredible. However, at the moment, only a couple of cameras are supported, including the Z CAM E2 series, Panasonic GH5s, and Sony Alpha series cameras.
Image credit: Z CAM
Speaking of camera control, you’ll need to connect your camera to the IPMAN Gemini via the devices’ USB-A port. The Z CAM IPMAN Gemini allows you to record the HDMI video feed on your smartphone and stream it to other devices through a wireless connection. The Gemini doesn’t require a battery, but it can charge your smartphone if you connect a battery to the USB-C PD power input port.
Image credit: Z CAM

Z CAM IPMAN Gemini Pro features

The Z CAM IPMAN Gemini Pro is a dual HDMI to USB Type-C converter. The Gemini Pro can take up to two 4K30p signals or two FullHD 1080p60 video feeds and convert it to a USB 1080p60 (max.) signal.
Image credit: Z CAM
On the Gemini Pro, the USB Type-C output can be connected to a Mac/PC only, which will recognize it as a USB camera without the need to install any drivers. In addition, according to Z CAM, you can use the Gemini Pro with software such as “OBS or any other streaming software on Mac/PC to view both HDMI feeds.”

Price and availability

The Z CAM IPMAN Gemini retails for $59.90 and should start shipping at the end of this month. You’ll find a smartphone holder, a mounting mount, and a USB-C to USB-C connecting cable in the package. The IPMAN Gemini Pro is $49.90 and should also start shipping by the end of September. For more information, please visit Z CAM’s website here. What do you think about these new Z CAM IPMAN video converters? Do you believe the IPMAN Gemini could replace your regular on-camera monitor? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments down below!

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