Follow Focus for Focus By Wire lenses

[keylight]

Lumix lenses focus by wire - there is no hard connection between the focus ring and the elements inside the lens. So what's the best solution for follow focus setups? I've done a lot of research and from what I can see, there are really only two types (well, there's a third, but I doubt it would work). So I'd REALLY like your input if you're using a follow focus with Lumix lenses. I'm going to get something soon and I'm not sure which is the best way to go.

Here's what I've found:

The first type is Friction Follow Focus, but frankly I'm a bit dubious about it. Any thoughts? These are what I found.

Jag35 ($199):


Ikan F3 ($180)


Shape ($552)


Triad (about $880)


indiSystem ($99)



Then there is the traditional geared follow focus that needs a corresponding gear ring with teeth. Everyone here knows about these.

Like this one:

Ikan ($400)


that comes with these:



But the problem is the belt. Can use it on a Lumix lens because you need 360+ degrees to focus.
EzFoto ($13)



After searching for a long time, I finally found this. I have no idea how well it works.

Cinevate ($50)


Or a 3-Pack ($98)



So.... What are your thoughts? What do you use for follow focus on fly by wire lenses?


Bonus: Here's that 3rd approach. I kid you not! ($50)

 

[Jim Simon]

Dude I LOVE that last one. I might pick that up to use for smoother zooms, something I sorely miss in DSLRs.

If only they had a reversible gear box so the lever was turned parallel to the camera for a full 360 spin capability.

 

[optitek]

yes that looks good for zooming actually.
As far as the FF why not use EFF? (drive by wire follow focus)

 

[scorsesefan]

keylight, I have tried a few different options (including a gear FF and the indisystem FF) and I have had no luck pulling focus with Lumix lenses (the 14-140 and 25 1.4). I never seem to be able to hit my marks on the next pull -- but, hey, maybe it's just me.

BTW if you do go with the IKAN, check out their site - they have the gearless for $99 and the geared for $249 refurbed.

 

[keylight]

Dude I LOVE that last one. I might pick that up to use for smoother zooms, something I sorely miss in DSLRs.

If only they had a reversible gear box so the lever was turned parallel to the camera for a full 360 spin capability.

Really? I didn't think it would work as it is or with a gear box. Looking at it closer, I see that the belt still needs a gear ring (I thought it might be a friction belt), so using something like the Cinevate ring would still be needed to allow for 360 rotation. Then again, seems like the belt would roll right off the gears pretty quickly. The traditional FF with gears lock into place on a rail so it doesn't slide. But the belt would slide, no? Need some kind of an guide edge on each side of the gear ring to keep the belt in place.

yes that looks good for zooming actually.
As far as the FF why not use EFF? (drive by wire follow focus)

Never had a very good experience using it. Maybe it's better on the GH3. What I'd really love is a USB follow focus like the Manfrotto that Lpowell got working in this thread with his AF100. Here.... I borrowed a photo from his thread, but go check out his setup. If we could do something like that with the GH2 or GH3, that would be fantastic:

Manfrotto makes something similar for Canon:



Nothing for Lumix cameras yet. Maybe it isn't even possible. Keeping fingers crossed for something to debut at NAB this year.

 

[keylight]

Oooo.... just saw this one for Canon too. I could fall in love with something like that (if it works well):



Or this one (again Canon):