DJI adds to its growing suite of creative tools with the global launch of its next 360-degree camera, a small form factor camera offering the first interchangeable lenses in its series. Following an early introduction in China, the camera will be launched across most international markets from mid-September, offering users a more versatile experience for shooting in 360, whichever of filmmakers, travelers or content creators. The most prominent feature is located just in front of the camera body.
You can replace the default lenses with other optics that alter the perspective, the depth of field or ultimately the output aesthetic of the image. This system of interchangeability brings 360 cameras more closely in line with traditional photographic work-flows in which the eyes and brains of the photog set the course of aesthetic explorations with lens choice. An ultra-wide lens will yield in a broad view of a room or mountain vista, whereas a macro can dapple the iris in a patch of sunlight, or a sharp, high-powered piece of glass might bring out minute details.
Change the glass without a complete purchase is another benefit: design still adheres to the recent DJI school of design. The camera body is still small enough to be carried in a jacket pocket or clipped to a mochila strap, but feels heavier and more solid. Two lenses work in conjunction to stitch live output of the source into a fully spherical image; assistance from upgraded processing means to a noticeably less apparent line joining the two halves of the image.
A better color science means the footage is more natural ‘right off the camera’, saving time styling in the editor. Battery life allows long capturing sessions, and the camera captures high resolution video that can be posted on social networks or played back on bigger screens. Stabilisation allows to keep handheld recordings smooth while walking or riding.
Companion applications manage stitching, and provide simple editing features to reframe the 360 captures into flat videos. Creators can zoom in on the best angle available after the track is shot, a freedom that, at first, seems almost magical. The US is not included in the worldwide launch currently due to the continuing regulatory and trade hurdles. Otherwise, it should be available for order quickly through local stores and online. The price is placed at a serious but not unapproachable level for working amateur users and needly professionals, who want dependable 360 images without carrying extra bulk of dual camera rigs. All of this is immediately applicable.
A real estate agent can record a walkthrough and later allow prospective buyers to navigate every part of a house. An adventure tourist can have the capability to capture a mountain trail or city block full environment, and then worry about final composition after they’re somewhere comfortable. An event videographer can finally place a single camera right in the middle of a situation, etching out to create a range of multi-angle shots. But the removable lens adds another possibility. Producing content about a concert user can switch between wide, crowd shots and close up, performer shots, all on the same body. This new 360 model is a step forward in that effort, fulfilling a demand of people who wanted even greater optics.
