Fusion: The New 5.2K VR Camera From GoPro

Earlier today, GoPro announced their newest camera Fusion. It's a 5.2K spherical camera that gives you the ability to capture every angle simultaneously.

Fusion is the ultimate capture device for fully immersive virtual reality content, non-VR video, and even photos. - Jess Foley, GoPro Senior Product Manager of Spherical Solutions

While many specs and pricing are not available yet, you can read more over on the GoPro site here.

Make sure you use the controller in the top left corner of the video or your arrow keys to actually experience the 360-degree video.

RODE smartLav+ Review

The RODE smartLav+ lavalier microphone is not new, but I've had enough people ask about it when they see me using it that I thought I would do a quick review. However, let me say clearly from the start, I'm not an audio guy. I will not share with you the nuances of the tone of this mic verses another. Honestly, I don't know. What I do know is my experience with it, and that I will share. 

The smartLav+ is intended to be used on your iOS device with the RODE Rec app, though it can be used with other apps as well. It's biggest strength is that it utilizes a device that the majority of us carry in our pockets everyday, our iPhones. The ability to throw the smartLav+ in my pocket or pack, with almost no noticeable space taken by it, makes it part of my regular kit, even when I plan to use something else. 

Overall, the smartLav+ has performed very well for me. The first time I realized I would use it on a regular basis was after shooting an impromptu interview at the Operation Christmas Child box sorting center in Atlanta almost two years ago. The warehouse was loud...REALLY LOUD! The whole time I was shooting the interview I was thinking what a waste of time it was. There was no way I was going to be able to use it. Once I actually got home and had a chance to listen to the audio the smartLav+ recorded I was really impressed. Here's actually the raw video file with the original audio (I believe I had a RODE VideoMic GO on the camera) and smartLav+ audio for you to compare:

Since then, the smartLav+ has become a go-to for quick shoots that I have to do on my own or that can be redone easily if there are any issues. Just a few weeks ago I shot this (again, raw file out of camera) for additional comparison:

As happy as I have been with the smartLav+, I do have to share the few negatives I've found to using it. First, you're unable to monitor the audio you're recording. The most common issue I've had as a result is distorted audio. You are able to adjust the mic gain settings in the RODE Rec app settings and once you play with it a bit, you can usually figure out what will work best for you.

Second, I've had issues where I know for a fact the audio was recording and coming through, but the "talent" pulled the mic out of the iPhone or iPod and as a result it loses the recording. I'm not sure if that's been everyone's experience with that, but by default I make sure the "talent" understands they are not to unplug it for any reason without my permission.

Overall, the RODE smartLav+ is a great purchase at $65. If you're looking for an affordable or simple lavalier microphone, this is a great option.

Tenba BYOB 13 Camera Case & Packlite Travel Bag

Over the past year and a half, I've had the privilege to do a couple international trips and am scheduled for another this fall. These are always fast-pace, run-and-gun documentary style projects, and I've always had trouble getting the right packing setup that meets the needs for both travel and production. The goal is usually to get all my clothes, toiletries, and gear into what I'm able to carry-on. To spare you any lengthy details of my previous struggles, I'll go ahead and share with you a recent purchase that has been a game-changer for me, the Tenba BYOB 13 Camera Insert and the Packlite Travel Bag.

The BYOB Camera Insert gives you the benefits of your typical camera bag, but is designed for you to insert it into the bag of your choice, hence the name "Bring Your Own Bag." The BYOB 13 is my personal favorite because it is able to hold my Canon 5D Mark iii, Canon 70-200 2.8, Canon 24-70 2.8, Zacuto Z-finder, GoPro Hero4, batteries, memory cards, iPhone, Rode VideoMic Go, Rode smartLav+, and quite a few other items. The other big bonus is the ability to pull all your gear out of your bag quickly if the airline tells you that you have to check your bag for a flight.

Once you arrive at your destination, the Packlite Travel Bag expands into a messenger bag that fits the BYOB Camera Insert with a little room to spare. There's not much to say about this bag other than it is compact when you need to pack it and fits the BYOB 13 Camera Insert once you're ready to head out with your select camera gear.

The Tenba BYOB Camera Insert ($59.95) and Packlite Travel Bag ($28.95) do exactly as advertised and I'm thrilled with the purchase. It was a no-brainer for me. If you travel with gear at all, you need to take a hard look at this setup...and then send me a thank you note once you've purchased them.

GoPro HERO4 Session

GoPro has announced a new camera, the HERO4 Session, that is already on my "to purchase" list. Just like any tool, it won't be right for every job, but I think GoPro is showing us once again why they are the clear leaders in the action and adventure arena.

The HERO4 Session will shoot 1440p30, 1080p60, and 720p100 for video and 8MP stills. The camera itself is waterproof, removing the need for an additional case that adds size and weight. The HERO4 Session is $399.99 is available for order on July 12. The only thing I immediately wish was different is the internal battery, but I'm sure that is a trade-off for it to be this size. 

Overall, I can't wait to get my hands on one. It will be an everyday carry for me.