Focus Check

Epizode

• 
  ep130 - YouTube's New View Count | Artlist's $500 'Unlimited' AI Deal Lasted a Week – CineD Focus Check 20.08.2026 1h 15min

  Artlist sold a year of unlimited AI video generation with Seedance 2.5 for $500, paid up front. Days later, it was gone. This is not a company blindsided by success – this is a company that knew exactly what was going to happen and did it anyway. Our recommendation: do not give Artlist your money up front, because they cannot be trusted. And that wasn't even the week's biggest shakeup. YouTube just moved the goalposts for every creator on the platform: from August 24, a view registers from the moment playback starts – first frame, no minimum watch time. Drones are about to get 25% more expensive in the US, and Kodak just posted its best numbers in years on film stock.   This Episode is Sponsored by Hollyland. Check it out at (00:15:55) Learn more: http://cined.co/VRLOCb   Topics and Chapters in this Episode: (00:00:00) Intro (00:01:25) YouTube Changes How Views Are Counted – No Minimum Watch Time, All Formats, From August 24 https://www.cined.com/youtube-changes-how-views-are-counted-no-minimum-watch-time-all-formats-from-august-24/ (00:08:16) YouTube Makes Monetization Harder – New Partner Program Rules Explained https://www.cined.com/youtube-makes-monetization-harder-new-partner-program-rules-explained/ (00:16:45) Nikon ZR Owners Are Still Waiting – Where Is the Big Firmware Update? https://www.cined.com/nikon-zr-owners-are-still-waiting-where-is-the-big-firmware-update/ (00:23:08) US Drone Tariffs Hit on September 3 – 25% More Expensive, and DJI Is Still Banned https://www.cined.com/us-drone-tariffs-hit-on-september-3-25-more-expensive-and-dji-is-still-banned/ (00:29:20) Artlist Sold a Year of Unlimited Seedance 2.5 for $500 and Delivered a Week https://www.cined.com/artlist-sold-a-year-of-unlimited-seedance-2-5-for-500-and-delivered-a-week/ (00:37:22) HONOR Robot Phone Launches – ARRI LogC3, Wide Gamut 3, and a Motorized Titanium Gimbal Camera https://www.cined.com/honor-robot-phone-launches-arri-logc3-wide-gamut-3-and-a-motorized-titanium-gimbal-camera/ (00:41:55) RocXZoom Heading to Kickstarter – Robotic 50x Zoom Camera With AI Subject Tracking From Ex-DJI Engineers https://www.cined.com/rocxzoom-heading-to-kickstarter-robotic-50x-zoom-camera-with-ai-subject-tracking-from-ex-dji-engineers/ (00:46:40) Sony and TSMC Definitive Sensor Deal Signed – 747 Billion Yen, New Kumamoto Fab, and Volume Production in 2029 https://www.cined.com/sony-and-tsmc-definitive-sensor-deal-signed-747-billion-yen-new-kumamoto-fab-and-volume-production-in-2029/ (00:52:45) Kodak Posts a Fourth Straight Quarter of Growth – And Film Is Doing the Heavy Lifting https://www.cined.com/kodak-posts-a-fourth-straight-quarter-of-growth-and-film-is-doing-the-heavy-lifting/ (00:56:50) Fränk Film Processor – Develop Super 8, Double 8, and 16mm at Home https://www.cined.com/frank-film-processor-develop-super-8-double-8-and-16mm-at-home/ (01:00:51) Your Mac Can Finally Make DCP Delivery Drives – INT DCP Baker Costs Just $20 https://www.cined.com/your-mac-can-finally-make-dcp-delivery-drives-int-dcp-baker-costs-just-20/ (01:04:50) amaran Mic Released – 30mm Dynamic Capsule, On-Board AI Noise Reduction, and 2.4GHz Wireless https://www.cined.com/amaran-mic-released-30mm-dynamic-capsule-on-board-ai-noise-reduction-and-2-4ghz-wireless/ (01:07:51) FAMILIARITÉ – Isabelle Huppert Stars in a Short Film Shot Entirely on the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P https://www.cined.com/familiarite-isabelle-huppert-stars-in-a-short-film-shot-entirely-on-the-dji-osmo-pocket-4p/ (01:10:17) Steadicam Elite Announced – For Hybrid Cinema and Live-Production Work https://www.cined.com/steadicam-elite-announced-for-hybrid-cinema-and-live-production-work/ (01:11:43) Point-of-View Perspective in Film – Controlling Tension, Immersion, and Empathy https://www.cined.com/point-of-view-perspective-in-film-controlling-tension-immersion-and-empathy/   Let us know what you think in the comments below or on YouTube, and email us at podcast@cined.com if there is something you want us to discuss on th
• 
  ep129 - RED's RAW Patent Falls in Japan + Every Camera Maker's Numbers – CineD Focus Check 13.08.2026 1h 56min

  For almost two decades, one patent decided which cameras could record RAW internally. This week it fell in Japan – and the company that brought it down is the last one you'd guess. On top of that, every major camera manufacturer reported numbers within days of each other: FUJIFILM's Imaging Division is now the group's biggest earner, Panasonic posted its best quarter in 41 years without any help from cameras, and GoPro is down to $27 million in cash while it looks for a buyer. Winners, losers, and a power shift nobody saw coming.   This Episode is Sponsored by Hollyland. Check it out at (00:12:47): http://cined.co/VRLOCb Topics and Chapters in this Episode:   (00:00:00) Intro   (00:01:58) CIPA First-Half 2026 Numbers – Compact Cameras Keep Booming While the Market Shifts to Pricier Gear https://www.cined.com/cipa-first-half-2026-numbers-compact-cameras-keep-booming-while-the-market-shifts-to-pricier-gear/   (00:13:36) Canon's Cameras Are Printing Money Again – And Compacts Are Leading the Charge https://www.cined.com/canons-cameras-are-printing-money-again-and-compacts-are-leading-the-charge/   (00:18:10) FUJIFILM Cameras Are Selling Like Never Before – Imaging Is Now the Group's Biggest Earner https://www.cined.com/fujifilm-cameras-are-selling-like-never-before-imaging-is-now-the-groups-biggest-earner/   (00:25:00) Nikon Misses the Industry Party – Camera Sales Slip in China While Memory Prices Eat Into Profits https://www.cined.com/nikon-misses-the-industry-party-camera-sales-slip-in-china-while-memory-prices-eat-into-profits/   (00:33:34) Panasonic Posted Its Best Quarter in 41 Years – and Cameras Have Nothing to Do With It https://www.cined.com/panasonic-posted-its-best-quarter-in-41-years-and-cameras-have-nothing-to-do-with-it/   (00:38:51) Sony's Money Is in the Sensor – Quarterly Numbers, the Tamron Bid, and the Kumamoto Question https://www.cined.com/sony-q1-fy2026-financial-results-image-sensors-shine-outlook-raised-and-tamron-bid-confirmed/   (00:46:10) GoPro Says Its Sale Process Is in the Later Stages – Camera Sales Fall 38%, Cash Down to $27 Million https://www.cined.com/gopro-says-its-sale-process-is-in-the-later-stages-camera-sales-fall-38-cash-down-to-27-million/   (00:54:35) Videndum H1 2026 Results – Cine Brands Outperform While the Going-Concern Warning Stays https://www.cined.com/videndum-h1-2026-results-cine-brands-outperform-while-the-going-concern-warning-stays/   (01:05:44) Sony FX5 IBIS Lock Service Targeted for December – Sony Answers Our Open Questions https://www.cined.com/sony-fx5-ibis-lock-service-targeted-for-december-sony-answers-our-open-questions/   (01:14:24) The Drone in Your Kit Could Be Next – US FCC Proposal Targets Thermal and LiDAR Models Already Approved for Sale https://www.cined.com/the-drone-in-your-kit-could-be-next-us-fcc-proposal-targets-thermal-and-lidar-models-already-approved-for-sale/   (01:17:44) RED's Compressed RAW Patent Invalidated in Japan – Nikon Loses Defending the Patent It Once Fought https://www.cined.com/reds-compressed-raw-patent-invalidated-in-japan-nikon-loses-defending-the-patent-it-once-fought/   (01:24:45) Welcome Back, EVF – We've Missed You! https://www.cined.com/welcome-back-evf-weve-missed-you/   (01:31:27) Atlas Mercury Anamorphic Lens Price Drop – New Lower Pricing Across All Nine Focal Lengths https://www.cined.com/atlas-mercury-anamorphic-lens-price-drop-new-lower-pricing-across-all-nine-focal-lengths/   (01:34:55) Blackmagic Camera 10.2.2 Released – Cinema Camera 6K Gains Phase-Detect Autofocus, Cloud Streaming, and 10-Minute Pre-Record https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-camera-10-2-2-released-cinema-camera-6k-gains-phase-detect-autofocus-cloud-streaming-and-10-minute-pre-record/   (01:37:32) DJI Mic Mini 2S Released – 32-Bit Float Internal Recording, 14.5GB Storage, and Four-Transmitter Support https://www.cined.com/dji-mic-mini-2s-released-32-bit-float-internal-recording-14-5gb-storage-and-four-transmitter-support/   (01:43:32) Saramonic
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  ep128 - Sony FX5 Poll Results & Delivery Delays + Sony's Bid to Buy Tamron – CineD Focus Check 06.08.2026 1h 28min

  Sony is warning that FX5 orders have outstripped its own expectations, and at the same time the company has put a non-binding offer on the table to buy Tamron outright. We extensively cover the FX5, and also talk about the FCC pressure on XTRA in the US, a major Nexus G1 update, Christopher Nolan's fully analogue IMAX production of The Odyssey, and a long run of lens, accessory and software releases. This episode is sponsored by Hollyland at (29:29)► Check out the Pyro S wireless video transmitter: http://cined.co/nImvmn Chapters & Articles Mentioned in This Episode: (00:00) Intro (01:48) Sony warns of possible delivery delays as Sony FX5 orders far exceed expectations https://www.cined.com/sony-warns-of-possible-delivery-delays-as-sony-fx5-orders-far-exceed-expectations/ (09:01) Poll: Sony FX5 – which missing feature do you want most? https://www.cined.com/poll-sony-fx5-which-missing-feature-do-you-want-most/ (20:18) Sony FX5 interview – firmware V2 timing confirmed, anamorphic limitations, and Cinema Line strategy https://www.cined.com/sony-fx5-interview-firmware-v2-timing-confirmed-anamorphic-limitations-and-cinema-line-strategy/ (30:21) Sony proposes to acquire lens maker Tamron – what a takeover could mean for the lens market https://www.cined.com/sony-proposes-to-acquire-lens-maker-tamron-what-a-takeover-could-mean-for-the-lens-market/ (40:03) XTRA Muse 2 Pro pre-orders paused in the US – full refunds issued as FCC scrutiny intensifies https://www.cined.com/xtra-muse-2-pro-pre-orders-paused-in-the-us-full-refunds-issued-as-fcc-scrutiny-intensifies/ (45:48) Nexus G1 update – CINAF autofocus for any lens, U-Mount now standard, production nears final stretch https://www.cined.com/nexus-g1-update-cinaf-autofocus-for-any-lens-u-mount-now-standard-production-nears-final-stretch/ (54:48) How Christopher Nolan shot The Odyssey entirely on IMAX film – inside the new Keighley camera https://www.cined.com/how-christopher-nolan-shot-the-odyssey-entirely-on-imax-film-inside-the-new-keighley-camera/ (01:02:54) Does film have a future? A Kodak factory tour documentary about film, shot on film https://www.cined.com/does-film-have-a-future-a-kodak-factory-tour-documentary-about-film-shot-on-film/ (01:06:27) DaVinci Resolve 21.0.3 released – keyframe ease actions, interlaced fixes, and Sony BURANO X-OCN decode fix https://www.cined.com/davinci-resolve-21-0-3-released-keyframe-ease-actions-interlaced-fixes-and-sony-burano-x-ocn-decode-fix/ (01:07:26) Blackmagic UltraStudio Mini 12G family released – Thunderbolt 4 capture and playback, 12G-SDI fill and key, DaVinci Resolve replay https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-ultrastudio-mini-12g-family-released-thunderbolt-4-capture-and-playback-12g-sdi-fill-and-key-davinci-resolve-replay/ (01:09:11) Cooke SP3 and AP3 lenses now available for Nikon Z mount https://www.cined.com/cooke-sp3-and-ap3-lenses-now-available-for-nikon-z-mount/ (01:10:27) Simmod 4-in-1 ARRI PL lens adapter with interchangeable mount released https://www.cined.com/simmod-4-in-1-arri-pl-lens-adapter-with-interchangeable-mount-released/ (01:13:08) CINELUX REDUXA A1 focal reducer for ARRI ALEXA Classic/XT/SXT teased https://www.cined.com/cinelux-reduxa-a1-focal-reducer-for-arri-alexa-classic-xt-sxt-teased/ (01:15:18) Megadap M2RF Leica M to Canon RF autofocus adapter released https://www.cined.com/megadap-m2rf-leica-m-to-canon-rf-autofocus-adapter-released/ (01:18:19) SmallRig HawkLock cage and accessories for Sony FX5 announced https://www.cined.com/smallrig-hawklock-cage-and-accessories-for-sony-fx5-announced/ (01:19:01) Tilta full camera cage for Sony FX5 announced https://www.cined.com/tilta-full-camera-cage-for-sony-fx5-announced/ (01:20:24) MID49 previews a modular support and power system for the Sony FX5 https://www.cined.com/mid49-previews-a-modular-support-and-power-system-for-the-sony-fx5/ (01:22:10) MID49 Baseline 15mm LW baseplate released for Pixboom Spark https://www.cined.com/mid49-baseline-15mm-lw-bas
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  ep127 - DJI Osmo Pocket 4P Beats the ALEXA 35, Insta360 Luna Ultra Fails – Focus Check 30.07.2026 58min

  The DJI Osmo Pocket 4P just did something no camera has done in more than 70 CineD lab tests. Nino Leitner sits down with Gunther Machu to go through the full lab results for both new gimbal cameras – the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P with its new LOFIC sensor, and the Insta360 Luna Ultra. One of them delivered the highest dynamic range figure we have ever measured. The other delivered the lowest exposure latitude result in our database. Both lab tests are live on CineD now. ► Read more: https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-pocket-4-pro-beats-the-arri-alexa-35-in-our-lab-while-the-insta360-luna-ultra-fails-focus-check-ep127/ ► DJI Osmo Pocket 4P Lab Test: https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-pocket-4p-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/ ► Insta360 Luna Ultra Lab Test: https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-pocket-4p-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/   Chapters & Articles Mentioned in This Episode:   (00:00) Intro: a lab test result we have never seen before (01:03) Welcome and why this episode is different (02:42) Why we never lab tested fixed-lens cameras before (06:27) DJI vs. Insta360 – the rivalry (09:08) LOFIC explained: lateral overflow integration capacitor (13:36) DJI Osmo Pocket 4P: dynamic range results https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-pocket-4p-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/ (22:32) DJI Osmo Pocket 4P: rolling shutter https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-pocket-4p-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/ (24:54) DJI Osmo Pocket 4P: exposure latitude https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-pocket-4p-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/   (33:26) Sponsor: Hollyland Lark A1 https://www.hollyland.com/product/lark-a1   (34:30) DJI Osmo Pocket 4P: the 60mm mid tele camera (38:07) Insta360 Luna Ultra: dynamic range and aggressive noise reduction (43:12) Insta360 Luna Ultra: exposure latitude (48:17) The Luna Ultra tele camera and the 8K exception (51:08) Price comparison and the odd launch timing (54:34) Summary: which one should you buy? (55:41) Outlook: LOFIC in more cameras and smartphones   This episode is brought to you by Hollyland and the Lark A1 wireless microphone, starting under 70 USD: https://www.hollyland.com/product/lark-a1   Let us know what you think — email us at podcast@cined.com
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  ep126 - FX5 In-Depth with Philip Bloom: Finally a True Cinema Line Compact? – CineD Focus Check 23.07.2026 1h 37min

  The Sony FX5 is here – and this week’s episode is largely dedicated to it. Nino is joined live from Tokyo by Johnnie and by special guest Philip Bloom from London, both of whom spent a week shooting with Sony’s newly announced compact cinema camera. Beyond the FX5 deep dive, the trio covers A24’s controversial $75M Google DeepMind deal, ByteDance’s Seedance 2.5 API, the EBU’s new camera guidelines for respectful coverage of women’s athletics, fresh lenses from Tamron, Viltrox, and NiSi, Godox’s inflatable mat light, a new high-payload modular gimbal from Poland, and a lot more – all the way to two awards you can enter right now. ► Our review: https://youtu.be/MevszuiRKbQ ► Philip Bloom's review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfnBkKhtQRU  This episode is sponsored by Hollyland at (53:23)► Check out the Pyro S wireless video transmitter: http://cined.co/nImvmn Chapters & Articles Mentioned in This Episode: (00:00) Intro (01:26) Sony FX5 Announced – Full-Frame 5K Open Gate, Internal X-OCN RAW, Three Base ISOs, 4K 240p https://www.cined.com/sony-fx5-announced-full-frame-5k-open-gate-internal-x-ocn-raw-three-base-isos-4k-240p/ (05:51) Sony FX5 Review – Finally, a Compact Camera Worthy of the Cinema Line Name https://www.cined.com/sony-fx5-review-finally-a-compact-camera-worthy-of-the-cinema-line-name/ (54:14) A24 Defends Its $75M Google DeepMind AI Deal After Fan Backlash https://www.cined.com/a24-defends-its-75m-google-deepmind-ai-deal-after-fan-backlash/ (01:01:16) ByteDance Seedance 2.5 API Goes Live – 30-Second Single-Shot Clips, 50 Reference Inputs, and 3D Camera Blockouts https://www.cined.com/bytedance-seedance-2-5-api-goes-live-30-second-single-shot-clips-50-reference-inputs-and-3d-camera-blockouts/ (01:06:15) EBU Sport Publishes “Raising the Bar” – Camera Guidelines for Respectful Coverage of Women’s Athletics https://www.cined.com/ebu-sport-publishes-raising-the-bar-camera-guidelines-for-respectful-coverage-of-womens-athletics/ (01:11:35) Tamron 12-20mm f/2.8 Announced – Compact Ultra-Wide Zoom for Sony E and Nikon Z Full-Frame Cameras https://www.cined.com/tamron-12-20mm-f-2-8-announced-compact-ultra-wide-zoom-for-sony-e-and-nikon-z-full-frame-cameras/ (01:13:26) Viltrox AF 26mm f/2.8 EVO Full-Frame Pancake Lens Announced for Sony E and Nikon Z https://www.cined.com/viltrox-af-26mm-f-2-8-evo-full-frame-pancake-lens-announced-for-sony-e-and-nikon-z/ (01:15:22) NiSi 16mm f/2.8 Medium Format Lens for FUJIFILM G & Hasselblad XCD Announced https://www.cined.com/nisi-16mm-f-2-8-medium-format-lens-for-fujifilm-g-hasselblad-xcd-announced/ (01:17:18) Godox KNOWLED AM800R Released – 800W Full-Color Inflatable 4’×4′ Mat Light https://www.cined.com/godox-knowled-am800r-released-800w-full-color-inflatable-4x4-mat-light/ (01:19:20) HD Air Studio HALO Modular Gimbal Debuts – 15kg Payload, 360° Roll and Pan, Handheld-to-Remote Head https://www.cined.com/hd-air-studio-halo-modular-gimbal-debuts-15kg-payload-360-roll-and-pan-handheld-to-remote-head/ (01:24:01) edelkrone Krone X Compact Announced – Up to Seven Axes of Motion in a Backpack https://www.cined.com/edelkrone-krone-x-compact-announced-up-to-seven-axes-of-motion-in-a-backpack/ (01:26:16) Zaxcom Publishes White Paper on Narrow Band Direct Conversion – New Receiver Architecture Promises Better Interference Rejection https://www.cined.com/zaxcom-publishes-white-paper-on-narrow-band-direct-conversion-new-receiver-architecture-promises-better-interference-rejection/ (01:27:45) LIT OS 0.9 beta4 for the LIT DUO 1 Light Meter Released – Higher Spectrum Resolution, CRI and SSI, New ΔEV Mode https://www.cined.com/lit-os-0-9-beta4-for-the-lit-duo-1-light-meter-released-higher-spectrum-resolution-cri-and-ssi-new-%ce%b4ev-mode/ (01:29:35) Log Cam and RAW Cam Bring Open Gate RAW and Log Video to Older iPhones – A Skeptical Look https://www.cined.com/log-cam-and-raw-cam-bring-open-gate-raw-and-log-video-to-older-iphones-a-skeptical-look/ (01:32:19) CineD Best-of-Show Award
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  ep125 - ARRI Sells Its Rental Business | DJI 'Front Companies' Fined | Sony RX10 V – CineD Focus Check 16.07.2026 1h

  ARRI is selling its global rental business – we break down the management buy-out backed by H2 Equity Partners and what it means for rental-exclusive cameras and lenses. Also this week: the FCC fines alleged DJI "front companies", Sony announces the RX10 V after nine years plus the LYTIA L910 LOFIC smartphone sensor, firmware news for the VENICE 2 and GFX ETERNA 55, new gear from SmallRig, Tilta, Blackmagic Design, and MOFAGE, LALAL.AI's new Lynx speech denoising model, sun tracking coming to Artemis and Cadrage – and a look beyond the hard cut on MZed.   This episode is sponsored by Hollyland: [INSERT SPONSOR URL] ► Learn more: http://cined.co/nImvmn Chapters & Articles Mentioned in This Episode: (00:00) Intro (01:25) ARRI Sells Its Global Rental Business – Management Buy-Out Backed by H2 Equity Partners https://www.cined.com/arri-sells-its-global-rental-business-management-buy-out-backed-by-h2-equity-partners/ (09:14) P+S Technik HEXAMO Mount Brings Leitz HEKTOR Primes to ARRI ALEXA https://www.cined.com/ps-technik-hexamo-mount-brings-leitz-hektor-primes-to-arri-alexa/ (10:38) DJI 'Front Companies' Fined by the FCC – A Selective Crackdown That Only Hurts Filmmakers https://www.cined.com/dji-front-companies-fined-by-the-fcc-a-selective-crackdown-that-only-hurts-filmmakers/ (17:33) SmallRig Split Filter Kits for DJI Osmo Pocket 4P Announced – Snap-On Dual Design, Stackable Optics, Adjustable VND https://www.cined.com/smallrig-split-filter-kits-for-dji-osmo-pocket-4p-announced-snap-on-dual-design-stackable-optics-adjustable-vnd/ (20:14) Sony LYTIA L910 Announced – LOFIC Structure, 100 dB Single-Exposure Dynamic Range, and 4K 60p HDR https://www.cined.com/sony-lytia-l910-announced-lofic-structure-100-db-single-exposure-dynamic-range-and-4k-60p-hdr/ (25:48) Sony RX10 V Announced – 24-600mm ZEISS Zoom, AI Recognition AF, and 4K 120p Video https://www.cined.com/sony-rx10-v-announced-24-600mm-zeiss-zoom-ai-recognition-af-and-4k-120p-video/ (32:53) Sponsor: Hollyland ► Learn more: http://cined.co/nImvmn (33:45) Sony VENICE 2 Firmware V5.00 Released – Signature Preset Look, 4K 47.95p 12G SDI Output, CNA-2 LAN Support https://www.cined.com/sony-venice-2-firmware-v5-00-released-signature-preset-look-4k-47-95p-12g-sdi-output-cna-2-lan-support/ (36:56) FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55 Firmware 1.10 Released – Roadmap Promises Automatic ND Control, LANC Support, and MXF Playback https://www.cined.com/fujifilm-gfx-eterna-55-firmware-1-10-released-roadmap-promises-automatic-nd-control-lanc-support-and-mxf-playback/ (40:32) Cadrage Studio Officially Released – Pre-Production Suite Exits Early Access with Subscription Pricing https://www.cined.com/cadrage-studio-officially-released-pre-production-suite-exits-early-access-with-subscription-pricing/ (43:18) Artemis and Cadrage Add Sun Tracking – Director's Viewfinder Apps Converge on Sun-Position Pre-Vis https://www.cined.com/artemis-and-cadrage-add-sun-tracking-directors-viewfinder-apps-converge-on-sun-position-pre-vis/ (45:39) Blackmagic UltraStudio Express 3G Announced – USB4 Capture and Playback, 3G-SDI and HDMI https://www.cined.com/blackmagic-ultrastudio-express-3g-announced-usb4-capture-and-playback-3g-sdi-and-hdmi/ (48:44) Tilta Universal Cooling System Announced – Thermoelectric Plate, Three Cooling Modes, and USB-C or Magnetic Battery Power https://www.cined.com/tilta-universal-cooling-system-announced-thermoelectric-plate-three-cooling-modes-and-usb-c-or-magnetic-battery-power/ (52:04) LALAL.AI Lynx Announced – Targets Noise in Production Dialogue https://www.cined.com/lalal-ai-lynx-announced-targets-noise-in-production-dialogue/ (56:16) MOFAGE POCO II Drop-In Filter Mount Now Available to Order – New EF Mount, Increased Clearance, and More https://www.cined.com/mofage-poco-ii-drop-in-filter-mount-now-available-to-order-new-ef-mount-increased-clearance-and-more/ (59:00) Beyond the Cut – Dissolves, Morphs, and Other Transitions https://www.cined.com/beyond-the-cut-dissolves-morp
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  ep124 - Best & Worst Camera Brands for Battery Longevity | Steadicam Inventor Doc – CineD Focus Check 09.07.2026 1h 26min

  We settle a question every filmmaker has cursed at some point: which camera brands actually let your batteries last — and which strand you the moment you upgrade? Nino goes brand by brand, ranking the best and worst for battery longevity, from Canon's decade-proof LP-E6 to the fragmentation that leaves Insta360 owners buying new cells with every generation.Then: the man who invented the stabilized camera. Garrett Brown — the mind behind the Steadicam — is finally getting a documentary backed by Francis Ford Coppola, and it's a reminder of just how much one person changed the way movies move. Plus ARRI's new Alexa 35 Live Xtreme, a tiny $200 pocket camera that came out of nowhere, a new electronic variable ND, fresh lights from Godox, iPhone lenses from Tilta, and the free, filmmaker-built apps quietly reshaping post-production. This episode is sponsored by Hollyland — check it out at 40:39.Learn more: LINK (00:00) Intro & topic outlook (07:17) Your Camera Lasts Only as Long as You Can Buy Its Battery: Camera Battery Compatibility, Brand by Brand https://www.cined.com/your-camera-lasts-only-as-long-as-you-can-buy-its-battery-camera-battery-compatibility-brand-by-brand/ (41:43) Steadicam Documentary “Thank You Mr. Brown” Enters Production, Backed by Francis Ford Coppola  https://www.cined.com/steadicam-documentary-thank-you-mr-brown-enters-production-backed-by-francis-ford-coppola/ (48:16) ARRI ALEXA 35 Live Xtreme Announced – Up to 8x HFR via SDI, 480fps, Baseband Slow Motion  https://www.cined.com/arri-alexa-35-live-xtreme-announced-up-to-8x-hfr-via-sdi-480fps-baseband-slow-motion/ (52:24) AulGo Pocket Camera Hits Kickstarter – 4K Sony Sensor, 6-Axis EIS, 56g Body  https://www.cined.com/aulgo-pocket-camera-hits-kickstarter-4k-sony-sensor-6-axis-eis-56g-body/ (55:55) Sony Teases a New RX10 – First Bridge Camera Update in Nearly a Decade  https://www.cined.com/sony-teases-a-new-rx10-first-bridge-camera-update-in-nearly-a-decade/ (58:30) KipperTie LCcineND Now Available – Remote Controllable 4×5.65” Electronic ND Filter  https://www.cined.com/kippertie-lccinend-now-available-remote-controllable-4x5-65-electronic-nd-filter/ (01:02:30) KNOWLED PL600 RF and PL1200 RF Announced – Nine-Band PaletteLab Engine, 92% Rec.2020, IP65 Weatherproofing  https://www.cined.com/knowled-pl600-rf-and-pl1200-rf-announced-palettelab-rgbww-engine-92-rec-2020-ip65-weatherproofing/ (01:08:45) Tilta iPhone Lenses Bring Fisheye, Macro, Wide, and Telephoto Glass for T-Mount  https://www.cined.com/tilta-iphone-lenses-bring-fisheye-macro-wide-and-telephoto-glass-for-t-mount/ (01:12:31) Vimeo and FiLMiC Pro Owner Bending Spoons Surges in $1.68 Billion Nasdaq IPO Debut  https://www.cined.com/vimeo-and-filmic-pro-owner-bending-spoons-surges-in-1-68-billion-nasdaq-ipo-debut/ (01:15:02) Boris FX Acquires iZotope – RX, Ozone, Neutron, and Nectar Join the Post-Production Toolmaker  https://www.cined.com/boris-fx-acquires-izotope-rx-ozone-neutron-and-nectar-join-the-post-production-toolmaker/ (01:17:05) Beat App Introduced – Free Mac Tool for Story Development and Shoot Planning  https://www.cined.com/beat-app-introduced-free-mac-tool-for-story-development-and-shoot-planning/ (01:21:28) Clip Sweeper v2 Now Available – Free Mac App for Cleaning Video Project Drives  https://www.cined.com/clip-sweeper-v2-now-available-free-mac-app-for-cleaning-video-project-drives/ (01:22:52) Artemis Studio for Mac – Chemical Wedding’s Desktop Companion to Its Director’s Viewfinder App  https://www.cined.com/artemis-studio-for-mac-chemical-weddings-desktop-companion-to-its-directors-viewfinder-app/ (01:24:39) DaVinci Resolve 21.0.2 Released – Keyframe Fixes, Retime Curve Improvements, and Better Fusion Vertical Transitions  https://www.cined.com/davinci-resolve-21-0-2-released-keyframe-fixes-retime-curve-improvements-and-better-fusion-vertical-transitions/ Thanks for listening! Leave a comment on the article or the YouTube video, and don't forget to subscribe on your f
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  ep123 - DJI Osmo Pocket 4P: 17 Stops of Dynamic Range? | Leica SL3-P Video Review | Apple Price Hike - CineD Focus Check 09.07.2026 1h 28min

  Nino reports back from DJI's Malta press event with first impressions of the Osmo Pocket 4P, Johnnie's Leica SL3-P video review goes live, and Apple has a mixed week – raising MacBook and iPad prices while also shipping a meaningful Creator Studio update for Final Cut Pro.We also cover Adobe's planned acquisition of Topaz Labs, MultiDyne stepping in to save the MRMC motion-control brand, a new sun-tracking cinema viewfinder app, and a stack of smaller gear and firmware news.  This episode is sponsored by Hollyland — check it out at (25:13).Learn more: LINK Chapters & Articles Mentioned in This Episode: (00:00) Intro & topic outlook (05:32) DJI Osmo Pocket 4P Malta hands-on – 17-stop dynamic range claim and LOFIC sensor tech (26:17) Leica SL3-P review – gorgeous color rendition, confusing menu, now with video review https://www.cined.com/leica-sl3-p-review-gorgeous-color-rendition-confusing-menu/ (32:03)  7Artisans DREAM Series Announced – MF 35mm/50mm/75mm T1.5 Full-Frame Cine Lens for E/L/Z/RF Mounts https://www.cined.com/7artisans-dream-series-announced-mf-35mm-50mm-75mm-t1-5-full-frame-cine-lens-for-e-l-z-rf-mounts/ (37:07) Apple raises MacBook and iPad prices as AI memory crisis reaches consumer hardware https://www.cined.com/apple-raises-macbook-and-ipad-prices-as-ai-memory-crisis-reaches-consumer-hardware/ (40:04) Apple Creator Studio update adds generate captions, edit detection, and auto mask to Final Cut Pro https://www.cined.com/apple-creator-studio-update-adds-generate-captions-edit-detection-and-auto-mask-to-final-cut-pro/ (52:32) XPPen Pilot Pro review – a versatile editing controller, but not for everyone https://www.cined.com/xppen-pilot-pro-review-a-versatile-editing-controller-but-not-for-everyone/ (58:27) LIGHTFRAMER PRO app introduced – turns iPhone into cinema viewfinder with sun tracking https://www.cined.com/lightframer-pro-app-introduced-turns-iphone-into-cinema-viewfinder-with-sun-tracking/ (1:01:40) MultiDyne acquires MRMC assets – forms new company to revive the motion-control brand https://www.cined.com/multidyne-acquires-mrmc-assets-forms-new-company-to-revive-the-motion-control-brand/ (1:05:33) Adobe to acquire Topaz Labs – AI upscaling and image enhancement, on-device models, standalone apps to continue https://www.cined.com/adobe-to-acquire-topaz-labs-ai-upscaling-and-image-enhancement-on-device-models-standalone-apps-to-continue/ (1:11:21) AtomOS 12.7.0 for Ninja RAW, Ninja TX, and Ninja TX GO released – RAW support for Sony α7R VI, Canon EOS R6 V, and Leica SL3-P https://www.cined.com/atomos-12-7-0-for-ninja-raw-ninja-tx-and-ninja-tx-go-released-raw-support-for-sony-%ce%b17r-vi-canon-eos-r6-v-and-leica-sl3-p/ (1:12:47) ARRI LUKA Unreal Engine plugin announced – virtual ARRI lights and cameras, real-time Lumen previs, DMX and LiveLink control https://www.cined.com/arri-luka-unreal-engine-plugin-announced-virtual-arri-lights-and-cameras-real-time-lumen-previs-dmx-and-livelink-control/ (1:17:11) DaVinci Resolve 21.0.1 released – improved RAW decoding, better HDR delivery, and Sony Alpha 7R VI support https://www.cined.com/davinci-resolve-21-0-1-released-improved-raw-decoding-better-hdr-delivery-and-sony-alpha-7r-vi-support/ (1:18:48) rsv.repair by OTTOMATIC introduced – free recovery tool for Sony .RSV files https://www.cined.com/rsv-repair-by-ottomatic-introduced-free-recovery-tool-for-sony-rsv-files/ (1:21:55) KIPON drop-in variable ND PL mount adapter announced with a deep-recessed design https://www.cined.com/kipon-drop-in-variable-nd-pl-mount-adapter-announced-with-a-deep-recessed-design/ (1:23:51) iFootage Shark Slider Pico Pro released with a higher payload https://www.cined.com/ifootage-shark-slider-pico-pro-released-with-a-higher-payload/ (1:27:01) Canon EOS C50, C80, and C400 firmware updates released https://www.cined.com/canon-eos-c50-c80-and-c400-firmware-updates-released/📬 Email us: podcast@cined.com
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  ep122 - New Leica SL3-P Review and Lab Test + What's Next for the DJI Ronin 4D? - CineD Focus Check 25.06.2026 1h 15min

  We dig into the new Leica SL3-P with a full review and Lab Test, share the results of our DJI Ronin 4D successor poll, go behind the scenes on an immersive BBC Proms production for Apple Vision Pro, and run through a wave of new on-set apps and gear – plus SMPTE opening its standards catalog, two pieces of FUJIFILM news, new DZOFILM adapters, and CVP’s Warranty+. Chapters & Articles Mentioned in This Episode: (00:00) Intro & topic outlook (05:58) Leica SL3-P Review – Gorgeous Color Rendition, Confusing Menu https://www.cined.com/leica-sl3-p-review-gorgeous-color-rendition-confusing-menu/ (07:53) Leica SL3-P Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range, and Exposure Latitude https://www.cined.com/leica-sl3-p-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/ (15:55) Leica SL3-P Review – Gorgeous Color Rendition, Confusing Menu (continued) (27:36) Poll: What Would You Want from a DJI Ronin 4D Successor? https://www.cined.com/poll-what-would-you-want-from-a-dji-ronin-4d-successor/ (44:44) Inside “Debut at the BBC Proms”: Director Ian Russell on Filming Classical Music for Apple Vision Pro https://www.cined.com/inside-debut-at-the-bbc-proms-director-ian-russell-on-filming-classical-music-for-apple-vision-pro/ (51:19) LidarAC App for Tilta Nucleus-M II and Nano II Introduced – Turn Your iPhone Into a LiDAR Rangefinder https://www.cined.com/lidarac-app-for-tilta-nucleus-m-ii-and-nano-ii-introduced-turn-your-iphone-into-a-lidar-rangefinder/ (55:03) RingThing Focus Ring Label Maker App for ARRI Hi-5, WCU-4, and Tilta Nucleus-M II Released https://www.cined.com/ringthing-focus-ring-label-maker-app-for-arri-hi-5-wcu-4-and-tilta-nucleus-m-ii-released/ (56:36) Mavis Studio Update Adds NDI Preview, PTZ Camera Control, and USB Audio to the iPad https://www.cined.com/mavis-studio-update-adds-ndi-preview-ptz-camera-control-and-usb-audio-to-the-ipad/ (58:02) First Rush 2.1 – On-Set Multicam SDI to ProRes Recorder Lands on the Mac App Store https://www.cined.com/first-rush-2-1-on-set-multicam-sdi-to-prores-recorder-lands-on-the-mac-app-store/ (1:00:44) Eddie AI Integrates with Iconik for AI-Assisted MAM Workflows https://www.cined.com/eddie-ai-integrates-with-iconik-for-ai-assisted-mam-workflows/ (1:02:17) SMPTE Opens Its Entire Standards Catalog for Free, Removing a Century-Old Paywall https://www.cined.com/smpte-opens-its-entire-standards-catalog-for-free-removing-a-century-old-paywall/ (1:06:05) FUJIFILM Fujikina Returns to New York City in October https://www.cined.com/fujifilm-fujikina-returns-to-new-york-city-in-october/ (1:07:37) FUJIFILM GFX Challenge Grant Program 2026 Opens – August 17th, Submission Deadline https://www.cined.com/fujifilm-gfx-challenge-grant-program-2026-opens-august-17th-submission-deadline/ (1:11:08) DZOFILM Octopus II and Marlin 1.4x Extender Announced – Up to 49% Lighter, 1.4x Focal Boost, S35-to-Full-Frame Coverage https://www.cined.com/dzofilm-octopus-ii-and-marlin-1-4x-extender-announced-up-to-49-lighter-1-4x-focal-boost-s35-to-full-frame-coverage/ (1:12:26) CVP Launches Warranty+ – Up to 4 Extra Years of Cover, Worldwide Repairs, and ProRepairs Support https://www.cined.com/cvp-launches-warranty-up-to-4-extra-years-of-cover-worldwide-repairs-and-prorepairs-support/ (1:13:34) Breaking the Framing Rules – New Storytelling Sessions Webinar on June 30th https://www.cined.com/breaking-the-framing-rules-new-storytelling-sessions-webinar-on-june-30th/📬 Email us: podcast@cined.com
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  ep121 - Pocket Wars: DJI vs. Insta360, Paramount–Warner Bros. Approved, MRMC Liquidation & New Blazar Anamorphic Zoom & Angénieux EZ 65 Lenses – CineD Focus Check 18.06.2026 1h 26min

  In this week's Focus Check, Nino and Johnnie tackle an industry in a tumultuous, consolidation-heavy phase. They open with the escalating Insta360 vs. DJI patent war over the Luna Ultra, then move through Artlist's layoffs, the US approval of Paramount's Warner Bros. merger, and MRMC's surprise liquidation just weeks after Nikon sold it off. From there the episode shifts into new gear: the budget Blazar Sentinel anamorphic zoom, the large-format Angénieux EZ 65 cine zooms, the Hollyland Astra P1 PTZ camera, the DJI Lito 1 drone, the SKYROVER S1 and X1 combos, Godox's inflatable lights, Tilta's foldable charger, plus deep dives on self-made virtual production and shooting a rocket launch in Apple Immersive Video.(00:00) Intro   (05:35) DJI sues Insta360, and Insta360 countersues DJI over Luna Ultra patent war https://www.cined.com/dji-sues-insta360-over-luna-cameras-seeking-a-u-s-sales-ban-on-launch-day/ https://www.cined.com/insta360-countersues-dji-over-luna-ultra-patent-war-asserting-five-u-s-patents/   (35:57) Artlist lays off 200 employees a year after hiring 120 https://www.cined.com/a-year-after-hiring-120-people-artlist-lays-off-200-employees/   (45:45) Paramount’s $111 billion Warner Bros. merger wins US approval https://www.cined.com/paramounts-111-billion-warner-bros-merger-wins-us-approval-but-the-fight-is-far-from-over/   (48:25) MRMC enters liquidation weeks after Nikon exit https://www.cined.com/mrmc-enters-liquidation-weeks-after-nikon-exit-with-asset-sale-agreed-but-not-yet-closed/   (51:28) Blazar Sentinel anamorphic zoom announced https://www.cined.com/blazar-sentinel-anamorphic-zoom-announced-35-60mm-1-33x-squeeze-full-frame-coverage-970g/   (56:44) Angénieux EZ 65 series announced https://www.cined.com/angenieux-ez-65-series-announced-two-large-format-zooms-60mm-image-circle-lpl-mount/   (59:31) Hollyland Astra P1 PTZ camera announced https://www.cined.com/hollyland-astra-p1-ptz-camera-announced-uhd-4k60-30x-optical-zoom-ai-auto-tracking-and-more/   (1:03:12) DJI Lito 1 review https://www.cined.com/dji-lito-1-review-entry-level-drone-with-4k100-and-omnidirectional-vision/   (1:08:44) SKYROVER S1 and X1 Fly More combos add a touchscreen remote https://www.cined.com/skyrover-s1-and-x1-fly-more-combos-add-a-new-touchscreen-remote-with-5-5-inch-display/   (1:15:32) Godox LR150 Air and LC500R Air released https://www.cined.com/godox-lr150-air-and-lc500r-air-released-inflatable-ring-and-wand-heads-one-battery-grip-92-minute-runtime/   (1:19:30) Tilta foldable charging station introduced https://www.cined.com/tilta-foldable-charging-station-introduced-6-channel-np-f-charging-priority-fast-charge-mode-tft-status-display/   (1:22:49) Self-made virtual production – what do you need to get started? https://www.cined.com/self-made-virtual-production-what-do-you-need-to-get-started/   (1:24:53) Shooting a rocket launch in Apple Immersive Video https://www.cined.com/shooting-a-rocket-launch-in-apple-immersive-video-with-the-ursa-cine-immersive/📬 Email us: podcast@cined.com
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  ep120 - Cine Gear 2026 Round Up: ZEISS Horizon Anamorphic, Sony RIALTO 65, Kinefinity VISTA – CineD Focus Check 11.06.2026 1h 38min

  This week's episode is all about Cine Gear, which took place at the beginning of the month in Los Angeles. We discuss what brands and new products Johnnie covered at the show — from the ZEISS Horizon Anamorphic lens to the Sony RIALTO 65 sensor block. Further, we talk about the Kinefinity VISTA pricing, Apple Immersive Video updates at WWDC26, the ARRI Eurovision documentary, and GoPro's going concern warning. (00:00) Intro (06:00) ZEISS Horizon Anamorphic First Look – 2x Full-Frame Lenses With Internal Motors https://www.cined.com/zeiss-horizon-anamorphic-first-look-2x-full-frame-lenses-with-internal-motors/  (15:04) ZEISS Panoptes 65 Unveiled – Ten Large-Format Primes at T2.2 with LPL Mount and 59.9mm Image Circle https://www.cined.com/zeiss-panoptes-65-unveiled-ten-large-format-primes-at-t2-2-with-lpl-mount-and-59-9mm-image-circle/  (25:36) Sony RIALTO 65 in Development – 65mm Sensor Block for the VENICE 2, Remote Operation, Multiple Recording Modes https://www.cined.com/sony-rialto-65-in-development-65mm-sensor-block-for-the-venice-2-remote-operation-multiple-recording-modes/  (30:41) Cinelux Project SIXTEEN Hybrid Film and Digital Super 16 Camera – First Look https://www.cined.com/cinelux-project-sixteen-hybrid-film-and-digital-super-16-camera-first-look/ (40:30) Bosma Vega H2 First Look – 6K Full-Frame Camera With HVS https://www.cined.com/bosma-vega-h2-first-look-6k-full-frame-camera-with-hvs/  (49:42) SmallRig Steps Into Bags With a 25L Backpack Designed to Secure Your Gear https://www.cined.com/smallrig-steps-into-bags-with-a-25l-backpack-designed-to-secure-your-gear/  (51:15) SmallRig Enters the Storage Market With a Phone-Mounted SSD https://www.cined.com/smallrig-enters-the-storage-market-with-a-phone-mounted-ssd/  (55:02) Why Profoto Is Betting on High-End Cinema Lighting – The Thinking Behind the ProPanel 3×2 https://www.cined.com/why-profoto-is-betting-on-high-end-cinema-lighting-the-thinking-behind-the-propanel-3x2/  (57:20) Strada 2 First Look – Local Drives, Remote Editing https://www.cined.com/strada-2-first-look-local-drives-remote-editing/  (01:02:47) NANLUX Matrix 2500B and Matrix 2500C – First Look https://www.cined.com/nanlux-matrix-2500b-and-matrix-2500c-first-look/  (01:05:18) Eddie AI's Shamir Allibhai on Building an AI Teammate for Editors https://www.cined.com/eddie-ais-shamir-allibhai-on-building-an-ai-teammate-for-editors/  (01:08:45) Tilta Illusion Magnetic Filters Introduced – Modular Polarization and VND https://www.cined.com/tilta-introduces-the-illusion-magnetic-filters-modular-polarization-and-vnd/  (01:10:49) SIRUI IronStar 100mm Anamorphic Macro Lens – A Close Focus First for the Series https://www.cined.com/sirui-ironstar-100mm-anamorphic-macro-lens-a-close-focus-first-for-the-series/ (01:17:20) Cadrage Studio Launches in Early Access – Pre-Production Suite from the Director's Viewfinder Team https://www.cined.com/cadrage-studio-launches-in-early-access-pre-production-suite-from-the-directors-viewfinder-team/  (01:21:42) Kinefinity VISTA Confirmed at $2,499 – Full-Frame 6K Open Gate, 220GB Built-In SSD, 610g Body https://www.cined.com/kinefinity-vista-confirmed-at-2499-full-frame-6k-open-gate-220gb-built-in-ssd-610g-body/  (01:25:00) Apple Immersive Video Gets Live Formats, iPhone Playback, and Static Foveation Streaming at WWDC26 https://www.cined.com/apple-immersive-video-gets-live-formats-iphone-playback-and-static-foveation-streaming-at-wwdc26/  (01:31:40) ARRI, 12 Points – How Eurovision 2026 Was Shot on 24 ALEXA 35 Live Cameras https://www.cined.com/arri-12-points-how-eurovision-2026-was-shot-on-24-alexa-35-live-cameras/  (01:33:19) GoPro Warns It May Not Survive the Year as Auditor Flags Going Concern Doubt https://www.cined.com/gopro-warns-it-may-not-survive-the-year-as-auditor-flags-going-concern-doubt/  (01:35:12) The Chronos Project's Edge Bets on Real Cameras Where Most Long-Term Remote Timelapse Rigs Use Action Cams https://www.cined.com/the-chronos-projects-edge
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  ep119 - High-End Anamorphics From Filmmakers: Inside Glaswerk's Lenses – CineD Focus Check 04.06.2026 54min

  In this special episode of Focus Check, Johnnie sits down with our guests David Kellermann and Viola Evang, the co-founders of Glaswerk Optics – a German lens manufacturer developing high-end 2x anamorphic cinema lenses. Tune in to this candid conversation about their seven-year journey: from a client arriving with a box of old projection lenses, to engineering some of the most meticulously designed anamorphic glass currently in development. The Glaswerk ONE and ONE+ prime sets are on the verge of shipping, and the story behind them is anything but straightforward.   (00:00) Introduction (00:45) Meet David and Viola – filmmakers turned lens makers (05:30) The moment a client's box of projection lenses changed everything (09:37) Going full frame and funding the project (13:08) The decision to go high-end: no compromises (16:36) First prototype at Cine Gear LA 2019 – the last-screw story (20:19) The development team: optical designers, mechanics, electronics (24:48) The ONE and ONE+: lens design, weight, and bokeh (29:24) Flares, coatings, and customisation (34:00) Why so long? Perfectionism, COVID, and metadata (35:52) Clients, pricing, and who buys these lenses (37:12) DCS metadata: why Glaswerk chose a different standard (44:31) Simulating lenses in 3D: Lens Sim plugin and Hübner Photonics (43:01) Final thoughts on the ONE / ONE+ before launch (44:31) Shipping a cinema lens in 2026: the market has changed (49:17) Could Glaswerk make lower-end lenses one day? (52:37) Wrap-up ➡ Visit Glaswerk's website: https://glaswerk-optics.de/ 📬 Email us: podcast@cined.com
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  ep118 - From an $8M Exit to a Virtual Production Studio: Inside Biro Florin's New Course – CineD Focus Check 28.05.2026 1h 24min

  In this episode of Focus Check, Nino speaks with Biro Florin — entrepreneur, misfit, and founder of Masterwork Films — about his unconventional path from cosmetics and software to running a green screen virtual production studio in Brighton, UK. They also dive deep into the new Virtual Production for Beginners course now available on MZed, which Biro co-created to help filmmakers, studio owners, and virtual production engineers build their own VP setups from scratch — without the budget of a Hollywood LED volume. 🎓 Virtual Production for Beginners course on MZed: https://www.mzed.com/courses/virtual-production-for-beginners Chapters and Articles in This Episode (01:19) Meet Biro Florin (03:26) From Romania to the UK: cosmetics, software, and an $8M exit (07:01) The "Misfit" mindset: Jexo, Masterwork Films, and entering industries sideways (17:13) Raising investment: finding ethical investors and protecting creative control (22:32) AI in filmmaking: the commercial shift, Cannes AI features, and what's defensible (46:10) Pivoting to filmmaking and founding Masterwork Films (50:55) Building a green screen VP studio on a budget (01:05:14) Why Blackmagic cameras work best for real-time keying (01:12:36) Blackmagic UltraKey, dynamic range, and getting a clean key (01:12:55) Unreal Engine workflows: compositing inside vs. outside the engine (01:15:49) Course structure, the 100-page workbook, and upcoming chapters (01:17:40) Understanding business 🎓 Virtual Production for Beginners course on MZed: https://www.mzed.com/courses/virtual-production-for-beginners 📖 Course overview on CineD: https://www.cined.com/virtual-production-for-beginners-new-mzed-course-on-green-screen-stages-unreal-engine-and-real-time-compositing/  📬 Email us: podcast@cined.com
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  ep117 - Insta360 Mic Pro, Profoto ProPanel & ASUS OLED Monitor Review | ARRI Omnibar | Focus Check 21.05.2026 1h 15min

  Nino shares what it was like to be embedded in the ARRI ALEXA 35 broadcast deployment at Eurovision 2026, followed by discussions of the newly released Insta360 Mic Pro, Graham’s review of the Profoto ProPanel 3×2 LED soft panel, two ASUS ProArt OLED monitor reviews, the OPPO Find X9 Ultra smartphone, a Sony a7 V firmware update, the Thypoch Voyager 24–50mm f/2.8 lens, the ARRI Omnibar LED bars, the NANLUX Matrix 2500 series, the Godox RS100R/Bi, a recap of the our MZed storytelling webinar, and an educational deep-dive into the SnorriCam. 00:00 Intro & topic outlook 1:00 ARRI ALEXA 35 Live at Eurovision 2026 – CineD Goes Behind the Scenes of the Biggest Broadcast Deployment in ARRI History https://www.cined.com/arri-alexa-35-live-at-eurovision-2026-cined-goes-behind-the-scenes-of-the-biggest-broadcast-deployment-in-arri-history/ 33:10 Insta360 Mic Pro Released – E-Ink Display, 32-Bit Float Recording, Adjustable Pickup Pattern https://www.cined.com/insta360-mic-pro-released-e-ink-display-32-bit-float-recording-adjustable-pickup-pattern/ 18:30 Profoto ProPanel 3×2 Review – The World's Brightest LED Soft Panel? https://www.cined.com/profoto-propanel-3x2-the-worlds-brightest-led-soft-panel-light/ 28:15 ASUS ProArt OLED PA27USD Review – On-Set 4K OLED with 12G-SDI and Built-In Colorimeter https://www.cined.com/asus-proart-oled-pa27usd-review-on-set-4k-oled-with-12g-sdi-and-built-in-colorimeter/ 33:10 ASUS ProArt Display OLED PA32USD Announced – 31.5-Inch 4K QD-OLED with Dual 12G-SDI and 1000-Nit HDR https://www.cined.com/asus-proart-display-oled-pa32usd-announced-31-5-inch-4k-qd-oled-with-dual-12g-sdi-and-1000-nit-hdr/ 36:36 OPPO Find X9 Ultra Coming Soon – 8K Log Recording, 4K 120fps Dolby Vision, and an ACES-Certified Color Pipeline https://www.cined.com/oppo-find-x9-ultra-coming-soon-8k-log-recording-4k-120fps-dolby-vision-and-an-aces-certified-color-pipeline/ 44:00 Sony a7 V Firmware v2.00 Adds 32-Bit Float Audio With Adapter, Preset Focus, and More https://www.cined.com/sony-a7-v-firmware-v2-00-adds-32-bit-float-audio-with-adapter-preset-focus-and-more/ 49:41 Thypoch Voyager 24-50mm f/2.8 – Brand's First Autofocus Zoom Arrives for Sony E-Mount https://www.cined.com/thypoch-voyager-24-50mm-f-2-8-brands-first-autofocus-zoom-arrives-for-sony-e-mount/ 53:24 ARRI Omnibar LED Bars Unveiled – RGBAM Color, IP65 Build, and Magnetic Optics https://www.cined.com/arri-omnibar-led-bars-unveiled-rgbam-color-ip65-build-and-magnetic-optics/ 01:02:27 NANLUX Matrix 2500B and Matrix 2500C Announced – 2500W Fixtures for Lighting Arrays https://www.cined.com/nanlux-matrix-2500b-and-matrix-2500c-announced-2500w-fixtures-for-lighting-arrays/ 01:08:29 Godox RS100R/Bi Introduced – High-Output for Mobile Production, and Versatile Accessory System https://www.cined.com/godox-rs100r-bi-introduced-high-output-for-mobile-production-and-versatile-accessory-system/ 01:10:59 A Mighty Cut and How it Drives the Story – Free Storytelling Sessions Webinar on May 19th https://www.cined.com/a-mighty-cut-and-how-it-drives-the-story-new-storytelling-sessions-webinar-on-may-13th/ 01:12:54 The Visceral Subjectivity of the SnorriCam – Capturing Internal Turmoil with Body-Mounted Rigs https://www.cined.com/the-visceral-subjectivity-of-the-snorricam-capturing-internal-turmoil-with-body-mounted-rigs/ Have feedback on this episode? Email us at podcast@cined.com.
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  ep116 - Canon EOS R6 V, Sony a7R VI & Panasonic LUMIX L10 | ARRI ALEXA 35 Live at Eurovision Song Contest - Behind-the-Scenes with CineD 14.05.2026 1h 16min

  This week on Focus Check: three major camera announcements (Canon EOS R6 V, Sony Alpha 7R VI, Panasonic LUMIX L10), the first same-day lab test for the a7R VI, a DJI Osmo Pocket 4P teaser, Sony's landmark TSMC joint venture, and what the new global battery rules mean for filmmakers flying with gear. Plus: Nino shares what it's been like filming behind the scenes at Eurovision with 24 ARRI Alexa 35 Live cameras.   Sponsor of this Episode is NANLITE: Check out the section at: 14:07   Topics and Chapters in this Episode: 0:00 Intro — Intro & topic outlook   04:05 - Canon EOS R6 V Unveiled – 7K Full-Frame Video Hybrid with IBIS, Active Cooling, and No EVF https://www.cined.com/canon-eos-r6-v-unveiled-7k-full-frame-video-hybrid-with-ibis-active-cooling-and-no-evf/   15:08 - Sony Alpha 7R VI Announced – 66.8MP Stacked Sensor, 8K 30p, 4K 120p and Sensor-Level Dual Gain Sony Alpha 7R VI Announced – 66.8MP Stacked Sensor, 8K 30p, 4K 120p and Sensor-Level Dual Gain   35:24 - Sony a7R VI Lab Test – Rolling Shutter, Dynamic Range and Exposure Latitude https://www.cined.com/sony-a7r-vi-lab-test-rolling-shutter-dynamic-range-and-exposure-latitude/   43:23 - Panasonic LUMIX L10 Announced – Leica 10.9-34mm F1.7-2.8 Zoom, 5.6K 30p Video, V-Log, and More https://www.cined.com/panasonic-lumix-l10-announced-leica-24-75mm-f1-7-2-8-zoom-5-6k-30p-video-v-log-and-more/   49:15 - DJI Osmo Pocket 4P Teaser Shows New Two-Camera Pro Version https://www.cined.com/dji-osmo-pocket-4p-teaser-shows-the-new-two-camera-pro-version/   51:28 - Eurovision Song Contest with 24 x ARRI ALEXA 35 Live - about CineD's behind-the-scenes cooperation, embedded into the production   01:04:32 - Sony Hands Image Sensor Manufacturing to TSMC in Landmark Joint Venture, Marking the End of Its Fully In-House Era https://www.cined.com/sony-hands-image-sensor-manufacturing-to-tsmc-in-landmark-joint-venture-marking-the-end-of-its-fully-in-house-era/   01:10:52 - Flying with Batteries in 2026 – What the New Global Power Bank Rules Mean for Filmmakers https://www.cined.com/flying-with-batteries-in-2026-what-the-new-global-power-bank-rules-mean-for-filmmakers/  
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  ep115 - I'm Back Founders: Why a Digital Sensor for Your Film Camera Hit $1M – CineD Focus Check 07.05.2026 1h 15min

  I'm Back Roll APS-C on Kickstarter: https://i-m-back-gmbh.kckb.me/8c61e3bdSamuel and Filippo, the two founders of I'm Back, join Nino to talk about their latest Kickstarter campaign: the I'm Back Roll APS-C — a self-contained digital sensor that replaces the pressure plate inside any analog 35mm camera. Nearly $1 million raised, 1,400+ backers, and two significant mid-campaign updates later, we dig into the engineering, the philosophy, and the honest unknowns. This episode is sponsored by NANLITE. Learn more at (24:43). CHAPTERS (00:00) Introduction & What's I'm Back (01:57) How Samuel and Filippo met & founded I'm Back (03:02) Samuel's original idea and first prototype (06:36) The Roll APS-C: how it works and what's inside (09:42) Kickstarter response: nearly $1 million and two campaign updates (14:34) Why the Roll is I'm Back's original idea — and why it took 10 years (25:46) Camera compatibility and the 4mm thickness challenge (28:20) Which cameras will and won't fit (29:35) Mid-campaign update 1: the 2.5" OLED touchscreen (34:17) Mid-campaign update 2: the wired sync shutter button (37:57) Video capabilities — what's known and what isn't yet (43:22) Thermal concerns and overheating in video mode (47:53) Addressing unfair reviews and how to properly compare results (57:17) Looking for a bigger partner — an open call from I'm Back (01:00:10) Past delays, COVID, and the August 2027 delivery target (01:07:03) Kickstarter used right — developing from scratch vs. pre-built products (01:08:42) Gadget or tool? The honest case for the Roll APS-CHave feedback on this episode? Email us at podcast@cined.com.
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  ep114 - NAB 2026 Best of Show: Kinefinity Vista, GoPro Mission 1, iodyne & more – CineD Focus Check 30.04.2026 1h 31min

  Episode 114 of Focus Check is our full NAB 2026 Best of Show breakdown — 11 categories, 12 winners — covering cameras, lenses, lights, monitors, intercoms, power, storage, and post-production tools. Plus non-NAB releases from DJI and ARRI.   This episode is sponsored by Nanlite. Check it out at 27:58   (00:00) Intro & overview   (03:31) Kinefinity Vista Teased at NAB 2026 – Sub-$3,000 Full-Frame 6K Open Gate in a Palm-Sized Body https://www.cined.com/kinefinity-vista-teased-at-nab-2026-sub-3000-full-frame-6k-open-gate-in-a-palm-sized-body/     (14:07) GoPro MISSION 1 Series at NAB 2026 – On the 1-Inch Sensor, GP3 Processor, and an MFT Mount https://www.cined.com/gopro-mission-1-series-at-nab-2026-on-the-1-inch-sensor-gp3-processor-and-an-mft-mount/     (28:59) Radiant Images Combines 24 iPhones with Gaussian Splatting for Next-Gen Bullet Time https://www.cined.com/radiant-images-combines-24-iphones-with-gaussian-splatting-for-next-gen-bullet-time/     (35:06) FUJINON GF 32-90mm T3.5 PZ OIS WR Lens Announced – Purpose-Built for GFX ETERNA 55 https://www.cined.com/fujinon-gf-32-90mm-t3-5-pz-ois-wr-lens-announced-purpose-built-for-gfx-eterna-55/     (39:19) DZOFILM Arcana Anamorphic Prime Lenses – Hands-On With the 1.5x Hybrid Trio https://www.cined.com/dzofilm-arcana-anamorphic-prime-lenses-hands-on-with-the-1-5x-hybrid-trio/     (40:47) NANLUX Evoke 5C Detailed – Pocket Point Source with IP67 and a New HSIW Mode https://www.cined.com/nanlux-evoke-5c-detailed-pocket-point-source-with-ip67-and-a-new-hsiw-mode/     (44:45) Atomos CEO Peter Barber on the Sumo PRO-19, Rebuilding the Brand, and Acquiring Flanders Scientific https://www.cined.com/atomos-ceo-peter-barber-on-the-sumo-pro-19-rebuilding-the-brand-and-acquiring-flanders-scientific/     (52:49) Hollyland SolidCom H1 – Enterprise Wireless Intercom https://www.cined.com/hollyland-pyro-ultra-wireless-transmission-system-launches-with-4k60-and-1-5km-range/     (55:50) Core SWX x Mondobytes PowerVault Introduced – Modular, Multi-Format Charging in One Case https://www.cined.com/core-swx-x-mondobytes-powervault-introduced-modular-multi-format-charging-in-one-case/     (59:27) iodyne Pro Mini Starts Shipping – Digital Label, Passkey Unlock, and RAID-6 in a Pocket SSD https://www.cined.com/iodyne-pro-mini-starts-shipping-digital-label-passkey-unlock-and-raid-6-in-a-pocket-ssd/     (01:05:15) XLCS Killdozer Cage – Weatherproof CNC Cage System   (01:06:37) Adobe Reinvents Color Grading in Premiere, Expands Firefly with Kling 3.0, and Debuts Frame.io Drive https://www.cined.com/adobe-reinvents-color-grading-in-premiere-expands-firefly-with-kling-3-0-and-debuts-frame-io-drive/     (01:09:51) Pixboom Spark Ships in May: 12-Bit RAW and ProRes RAW Coming Next https://www.cined.com/pixboom-spark-ships-in-may-12-bit-raw-and-prores-raw-coming-next/     (01:15:33) NiSi 50mm T1 Cine Prime Unveiled – LPL Mount and Large-Format Coverage https://www.cined.com/nisi-50mm-t1-cine-prime-unveiled-lpl-mount-and-large-format-coverage/     (01:20:47) OWC Express 4M2 Ultra Announced – DIY Thunderbolt 5 NVMe RAID up to 6,622 MB/s https://www.cined.com/owc-express-4m2-ultra-announced-diy-thunderbolt-5-nvme-raid-up-to-6622-mb-s/     (01:22:53) DJI Mic Mini 2 Released – 11g Transmitter, Three Voice Tone Presets, and Mic 3 Cross-Compatibility https://www.cined.com/dji-mic-mini-2-released-11g-transmitter-three-voice-tone-presets-and-mic-3-cross-compatibility/     (01:25:17) DJI Lito X1 and Lito 1 Launched – Aimed at First-Time Aerial Creators https://www.cined.com/dji-lito-x1-and-lito-1-launched-aimed-at-first-time-aerial-creators/     (01:27:18) DJI Power 1000 Mini Released – Compact 1kWh Power Station with Retractable USB-C and 58-Minute Recharge https://www.cined.com/dji-power-1000-mini-released-compact-1kwh-power-station-with-retractable-usb-c-and-58-minute-recharge/     (01:28:41) ARRI cforce MAX Replaces the cforce plus – Twice as Fast, 15% Smaller, and With an Onboard Touchscreen https://
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  ep113 - NAB 2026 Wrap-Up: Biggest Trends, Camera News & Hard Truths About the Industry ft. Michael Cioni - CineD Focus Check 23.04.2026 1h 35min

  Live from NAB 2026 — Nino Leitner, Johnnie Behiri, Graham Sheldon, and Michael Cioni break down four packed days on the show floor. AI is finally landing inside tools you actually use, a new wave of affordable Chinese cameras is threatening Japan's dominance, and the ARRI acquisition raises big questions about the future of cinema cameras. We also get into the GoPro effect, the sunk-cost fallacy killing established brands, and why NAB itself might be at a dangerous inflection point. Plus our show floor favorites: 4D video & Gaussian Splatting, Profoto 3x2, NanoLux 5C, Kinefinity Vista, and the Blackmagic URSA Cine Immersive. 📍 Recorded at NAB 2026, Las Vegas — B&H boothTopics and chapters in this episode: (0:00) Intro — NAB 2026 special episode(0:06) Welcome & meet the guests(1:30) Overview: 50 videos, staggered releases(2:19) Michael Cioni: AI integrating into real tools (Resolve 20.1)https://www.cined.com/davinci-resolve-21-hands-on-at-nab-2026-photo-page-intellisearch-and-cinefocus-in-action/(4:36) AI assisting editors, not replacing them(5:00) Graham: cinema glass, anamorphics & T1 primes(6:39) Johnnie: Chinese cameras challenging Japanese dominance(8:00) Kinefinity & Bosma — affordable full-frame cinema camerashttps://www.cined.com/kinefinity-vista-teased-at-nab-2026-sub-3000-full-frame-6k-open-gate-in-a-palm-sized-body/(10:21) DJI, Insta360 & finding niche markets(11:31) PixBoom high-speed camera — making slow-mo accessible(13:00) Japanese companies: conservative culture vs. fast-moving rivals(14:00) GoPro as a cautionary tale — fads, trends & standards(16:00) Why companies stop listening to customers(17:00) How to synthesize real user feedback(19:00) Steve Jobs on why sales culture kills innovation(20:09) Marvel sequels, peak TV & the overbuilding problem(21:40) The ARRI acquisition — who bought it & why it mattershttps://www.cined.com/arris-new-owner-thomas-riedel-with-chris-richter-and-david-bermbach-exclusive-nab-2026-interview/(25:00) ARRI's decline: writer's strike, peak TV & the ZERP era(27:44) Alexa 35 pre-orders, layoffs & the lighting division(29:04) Thomas Riedel — a safe pair of hands?(31:00) Why private equity would have been the worst outcome(33:31) Red sold to Nikon — smart exit or low price?(34:09) Should ARRI have built a consumer camera?(35:20) Adobe's multi-front war — Canva, CapCut & Evoto(38:00) ARRI's Germanic perfectionism vs. iterative releases(40:10) Canon in the high-end: lessons learned(40:32) Sony Venice — succeeding where others haven't(41:01) ARRI pivots to broadcast — collision course with Sony?(42:12) Alexa 35 Live at Eurovision 2026 — CineD media partnership(45:19) Is broadcast the new lifeline for cinema camera makers?(47:10) Blackmagic Design — going all-in on ethernet & broadcast(49:31) Small HD, Evoto & attacking one vulnerability at a time(51:31) Michael Cioni on building Strada in public(53:20) Sunk-cost fallacy — knowing when to change course(55:00) Tiny product teams & the power of iteration(57:12) NAB show floor highlights — what inspired us(57:39) Graham: GoPro's Hail Mary & entrepreneurs taking risks(1:00:43) Michael: quality of NAB attendees is up, numbers are down(1:02:44) Nino: fewer international visitors, missing creators(1:04:04) Johnnie's red flag — is NAB heading for an inflection point?(1:06:00) Michael: NAB needs to find its ideal customer profile(1:08:14) The great American mall analogy — cascading effect(1:09:38) IBC, South Hall & the shrinking show floor(1:11:30) Streamers buying live sports rights — what it means(1:12:01) Blackmagic immersive camera & the Vision Pro(1:13:37) Nino's favorite: 4D video & Gaussian Splatting studios(1:18:00) Blackmagic URSA Cine Immersive — 16K for VR(1:19:20) DaVinci Resolve 20.1 photo page — bad news for Adobe(1:20:00) Michael's favorite: Suno AI music composition(1:28:46) AI as a creative superpower, not a replacement(1:31:33) Graham's favorites
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  ep112 - From Rockets to Light Meters: Marko Pirc Built the LIT DUO 1 – CineD Focus Check 16.04.2026 1h 20min

  In this episode of Focus Check, host Johnnie sits down with Marko Pirc, founder of LIT Systems and the creator of the LIT DUO 1 light meter. It is a rare, candid conversation about what it really takes to build a professional hardware product from scratch in Europe: the failures, the crowdfunding mechanics, the supply chain reality, and the product decisions that led to one of the most distinctive instruments the cinema lighting world has seen in years. Read more: https://www.cined.com/building-the-lit-duo-1-from-physics-to-light-meters-kickstarter-strategy-building-in-europe-focus-check-ep112/ Sponsor of this episode is NANLITE. Check out the section at 31:55 First off: We are aware this is an unusual week to publish an "evergreen epsiode", given the huge amount of news coming out ahead of NAB. Truth is that we are about to fly out to Vegas, and with some of the team out (shooting / paternity leave), we couldn't produce a news episode this week. But that means that next week - Focus Check from NAB - will be even more interesting! Nevertheless, this episode with Marko Pirc, the maker of the LIT DUO 1 light meter, ROCKS. So give it a watch/listen, and let us know below what you think!   Chapters in this Episode: (00:00) Introduction & Meet Marko Pirc (01:15) Growing up in Slovenia – RC models, rockets & a glider license at 16 (04:10) Background and studies (08:35) First business – underwater light shaping for world championship photography (15:07) The Sekonic article that sparked the Lumo light meter (18:10) Lit Flash, patents & landing at Profoto in Stockholm (20:24) Kickstarter reality – building the audience before the launch (35:07) Building the LIT DUO 1 – from 5 am sketches to Kickstarter success (42:57) What is a light meter, and why should you use one? (42:57) The LIT DUO 1 – design, flicker measurement & 0.03% fault rate (01:01:08) Selling points and who is it for (01:08:37) Manufacturing in Europe & supply chain pressures in 2025 (01:11:42) What's next – firmware 2.1, third-party app collaboration & games Have feedback on this episode? Email us at podcast@cined.com or leave a comment below. Subscribe to the CineD newsletter and the monthly Database Update newsletter to stay in the loop.
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  ep111 - Apple's 50 Years in Filmmaking | I'm Back Roll APS-C | Videndum's Financial Crisis - CineD Focus Check 09.04.2026 1h 24min

  The I'm Back Roll goes APS-C on Kickstarter, Videndum's near-bankruptcy and what it means for Teradek, SmallHD, and Manfrotto, Apple's 50-year impact on filmmaking, why camera batteries fail, CVP expanding into the DACH region, the AutoCut 2.0 Premiere Pro plugin, and a new AI pre-production lesson on MZed. Sponsor of this episode is NANLITE. Check out the section at 20:40 Chapters and Articles in this Episode: (00:00) Intro & overview (04:38) I'm Back Roll APS-C Now On Kickstarter – Digital Film Cartridge Moves to APS-C Sensor https://www.cined.com/im-back-roll-aps-c-now-on-kickstarter-digital-film-cartridge-moves-to-aps-c-sensor/ (21:42) Videndum Posts Third Straight Year of Losses as £85 Million Refinancing Reshapes the Future of Teradek, SmallHD, and Manfrotto https://www.cined.com/videndum-posts-third-straight-year-of-losses-as-85-million-refinancing-reshapes-the-future-of-teradek-smallhd-and-manfrotto/ (46:11) Apple 50 Years Anniversary Link coming soon (01:10:41) Why Camera Batteries Fail: Core SWX CEO Ross Kanarek Explains Watt Hours, Voltage, and Amps https://www.cined.com/why-camera-batteries-fail-core-swx-ceo-ross-kanarek-explains-watt-hours-voltage-and-amps/ (01:14:13) CVP Expands Into Germany, Austria, and Switzerland with Dedicated Local Team https://www.cined.com/cvp-expands-into-germany-austria-and-switzerland-with-dedicated-local-team/ (01:16:51) AutoCut Plugin Now Integrates AI Directly Into Premiere Pro to Automatically Handle Time-Consuming Tasks https://www.cined.com/autocut-plugin-now-integrates-ai-directly-into-premiere-pro-to-automatically-handle-time-consuming-tasks/ (01:20:06) Using AI for Pre-Production Mood Boards and Look Development – New Lesson in "Directing the Future" on MZed https://www.cined.com/using-ai-for-pre-production-mood-boards-and-look-development-new-lesson-in-directing-the-future-on-mzed/ 📬 Feedback, comments, or suggestions? Write us podcast@cined.com