The fourth generation of DJI's Ronin tool is exciting, but it's an established product category and we know what we're looking at. However, alongside the new DJI RS 4 Pro (reviewed here) the manufacturer also revealed a new AMF (Automated Manual Focus) system: DJI Focus Pro.
This isn't the only DJI product to use LiDAR, and indeed plenty of other devices also use the tech – it's what Apple has used to measure distances on the iPhone Pro series for several generations now. But it is DJI's first product designed to replace a focus puller that's not integrated into a camera or gimbal.
The video below shows how the invisible LiDAR system is employed by the device to measure distance. It has a width of about 70°, wider than a 50mm lens, over which it projects 76,800 points, refreshing at 30Hz.
It is then set up using the motor and a small touchscreen (similar to that seen on the Ronin) to auto-calibrate to a camera and lens. A full list of compatible devices can be seen on DJI's site.
Setup can also be made using a phone and the Ronin app via Bluetooth, if a bigger screen is preferred. The automatic manual focus powers a motor that turns the lens' focus ring, and works over a range of about 65ft / 20m. It can even track subjects using AI, plus LiDAR has the advantage (compared to a typical contrast-detect AF system) of being able to work in the dark.
Perhaps the coolest feature, though, is that the subject tracking can work with a simple tap on a person or vehicle on-screen, just like a DJI drone. If your job on set is focus puller, it might be time to look for other roles.
The updates to the RS 4 and RS 4 Pro have refined the devices, which already use the DJI Ronin app for extra control. Teflon coating improves the axis arms, with a switch facilitating zoom and gimbal control, and both have native vertical shooting. The RS 4 can handle a 6.6lbs / 3kg payload, while the RS 4 Pro will handle a camera and lens up to 9.9lbs / 4.5kg.
The DJI RS 4 will set you back $549 / £469 / AU$799, with the RS 4 Pro costing $869 / £749 / AU$1,299.
The Focus Pro Creator Combo (with the grip, sensor, and motor) comes in at $999 / £789 / AU$1,389 while the All-in-One Combo adds a remote hand unit for a second operator, but costs $1,849 / £1,449 / AU$2,799.
Will the new RS 4 make our best camera gimbal guide?
