B&H Photo News Roundup: Week of November 24, 2024

B&H Photo News Roundup: Week of November 24, 2024

Need something extra to be thankful for this week? How about some new product releases! DJI added to its wireless microphone systems with the Mic Mini and Venus Optics released a full-frame version of their Laowa Nanomorph lenses.

DJI Shrinks Their Wireless Mic System

In the newest iteration of their wireless microphone system lineup, DJI has brought us the Mic Mini, a compacted version that does not skimp on features. The new system is designed with content creators in mind thanks to its compatibility with a wide array of devices. It is available in both single transmitter and dual transmitter system configurations to best suit your audio needs.

DJI Mic Mini 2-Person Compact Wireless Microphone System for Camera & Smartphone (2.4 GHz)
DJI Mic Mini

The Mic Mini transmitters are also sold separately and come in both black and white colorways. They offer a 1312’ transmission distance even in noisy environments. On their own they can communicate via Bluetooth 5.3 technology with select OsmoAudio cameras such as the Osmo Action5 Pro, Osmo Action 4, or Osmo Pocket 3 without requiring a receiver. You can even connect to the DJI Neo drone for high-flying audio commentary. It weighs just 10 g for a discreet appearance that won’t weigh down your talent’s clothes.

The receiver unit can connect directly to cameras via 3.5mm audio cable, to select mobile devices via USB-C adapter, and iOS devices via separately available Lightning adapter. Intuitive onboard controls and the ability to toggle advanced settings via DJI Mimo app adjust things like gain, two-level noise cancelling, safety track recording, and other parameters. Built-in batteries keep the receiver and transmitter running for 10.5 and 11.5 hours, respectively. Once depleted, recharge with the charging case up to 3.6 times for 48 hours of total runtime.

Whether you’re recording dynamic content with a gimbal-mounted camera, livestreaming to TikTok from your phone, or vlogging with your compatible Osmo Action camera, the Mic Mini ensures you have high-quality audio to accompany your footage. The system offers a streamlined version of DJI’s wireless audio technology without sacrificing quality and features.

Venus Optics Brings the Laowa Nanomorph to Full-Frame Cameras

With the same 1.5x anamorphic squeeze as the S35 versions, the new Laowa Nanomorph LF lenses provide high-definition cinematic video to your full-frame ARRI PL or Canon EF mount cameras. The 1.5x squeeze ratio achieves a 2.66:1 aspect ratio on 16:9 sensors after de-squeeze for a more pronounced anamorphic look. Lenses in this release include 32mm, 42mm, 55mm, and 85mm focal lengths in amber, blue, and silver colored flare variants. There are even 4-lens bundle sets to complete your gear loadout.

Venus Optics Laowa Nanomorph T2.9 1.5x LF Anamorphic 4-Lens Bundle (ARRI PL/Canon EF, Amber Flare)
Venus Optics Laowa Nanomorph T2.9 1.5x LF Anamorphic 4-Lens Bundle

Across the entire series the iris ranges from T2.9 to T22 for filming in virtually any lighting condition. Easily achieve a shallow depth of field at wide apertures with an organic, waterfall focus roll-off in the background. The bokeh remains consistent across the entire frame to avoid any shifting within your image. Even when the aperture is at its most open, the image remains sharp, making it suitable for most projects. Add filters or edits in post to achieve a vintage quality.

The Nanomorph LF lenses do not compress your image along the edge to prevent distortion to your subject matter. Low focus breathing maintains consistency when manipulating your focus ring for seamless transitions. The lenses deliver high-quality imagery within a compact form factor for use with DJI RS 4 and RS 4 Pro gimbals.

Fans of the previous Laowa Nanomorph models will appreciate the addition of full-frame-compatible lenses to Venus Optics’ arsenal. These lenses have generous image circles for optimal coverage on cameras like the ARRI ALEXA LF 4.5K Open Gate. Use the Laowa Nanomorph LF in a wide variety of productions from feature films to documentaries.

That’s all for this week! Come back next week as we continue towards the holidays and break down exciting releases you need to know about.