ectobuilder
Veteran
Re: Batis 25 + A7S // Killer Combo!
I think I found my killer combo for documentary / wedding filming.
A7S + Batis 25 F2.
The Batis 25 with the OLED DOF display is a godsend.
When it hits infinite, unlike gear-based lenses, it actually hits infinite and does not go out of focus when you turn past infinite. In this way, this fly-by-wire design on the Batis is more accurate than a gear based lens.
For steadicam use this lens is a dream because you can (at least I can) now read the minimum and maximum DOF very easily. I always felt it was difficult to decipher the traditional DOF scales. The Batis makes reading it more precise and gives me greater confidence when using a steadicam-like system. What Sony and Zeiss have to do now is integrate the DOF scale into the actual camera body itself so it displays on the screen and in the HDMI output as well (for those using an external monitor for camera operating).
The lens also has nearly zero focus breathing as well and has a superb super close focusing distance, which are characteristics of an elite prime. And it weighs roughly 300 grams!!!
On the A7S I also set the AF/MF button to [AF/MF Hold] which allows the system to temporarily drive focus on the Batis lens. This is a really nice combo feature to quickly pre-focus to your subject; perfect for run n' gun use.
I also find the A7S' ClearImage Zoom to be very useful. This gives me multiple FOV's using just the Batis 25 lens meaning I don't need to waste time changing lenses as much and allows me to continue to tell stories uninterrupted.
These two are an incredible combo!
An honourable mention would be the Small HD 501 and SmallRIG 1633 cage as well. These two additional items have made my dream come true to have a small, light weight but powerful storytelling rig.
EDIT: The LockPort HDMI is a must-have for this camera as nobody should have to put up with the dinky and fragile design of micro-hdmi!
I think I found my killer combo for documentary / wedding filming.
A7S + Batis 25 F2.
The Batis 25 with the OLED DOF display is a godsend.
When it hits infinite, unlike gear-based lenses, it actually hits infinite and does not go out of focus when you turn past infinite. In this way, this fly-by-wire design on the Batis is more accurate than a gear based lens.
For steadicam use this lens is a dream because you can (at least I can) now read the minimum and maximum DOF very easily. I always felt it was difficult to decipher the traditional DOF scales. The Batis makes reading it more precise and gives me greater confidence when using a steadicam-like system. What Sony and Zeiss have to do now is integrate the DOF scale into the actual camera body itself so it displays on the screen and in the HDMI output as well (for those using an external monitor for camera operating).
The lens also has nearly zero focus breathing as well and has a superb super close focusing distance, which are characteristics of an elite prime. And it weighs roughly 300 grams!!!
On the A7S I also set the AF/MF button to [AF/MF Hold] which allows the system to temporarily drive focus on the Batis lens. This is a really nice combo feature to quickly pre-focus to your subject; perfect for run n' gun use.
I also find the A7S' ClearImage Zoom to be very useful. This gives me multiple FOV's using just the Batis 25 lens meaning I don't need to waste time changing lenses as much and allows me to continue to tell stories uninterrupted.
These two are an incredible combo!
An honourable mention would be the Small HD 501 and SmallRIG 1633 cage as well. These two additional items have made my dream come true to have a small, light weight but powerful storytelling rig.
EDIT: The LockPort HDMI is a must-have for this camera as nobody should have to put up with the dinky and fragile design of micro-hdmi!
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