SmallRig F60 Modular Follow Focus
Brand: SmallRig
Product Overview
The SmallRig F60 Modular Follow Focus is a professional camera accessory designed for precise and smooth control of lens focus. It is compatible with DSLR and mirrorless camera systems and offers versatile mounting and adjustment options for filmmakers.
What's Included
The package contains the following components:
- Modular Follow Focus F60 (x1): The primary unit for focus control.
- Quick Release Arm (x1): An arm for attaching the follow focus to camera support systems.
- Silicone Gear (x1): A flexible gear designed to fit around camera lenses for gear-driven focus.
- 15mm Rod (x1): A standard 15mm diameter rod, typically used for mounting camera accessories.
- Rod Clamp (with NATO rail) (x1): A clamp that secures the 15mm rod to a camera cage or rig, featuring a NATO rail for quick attachment/detachment.
- Snap-on Gear Ring (x1): An alternative gear attachment that snaps directly onto the lens barrel.
- Palm Support (x1): An accessory designed to provide a comfortable grip for manual focus operation.
- Allen Wrench (x1): A tool provided for making various adjustments to the follow focus system.
- Carrying Bag (x1): A bag for storing and transporting the follow focus and its accessories.
Methods of Focus Adjustment
The F60 Follow Focus supports two primary methods for adjusting focus:
Friction Driven
In this mode, the follow focus unit's internal mechanism directly contacts and drives the lens's focus ring through friction. This method is suitable for lenses without a gear ring.
Gear Driven
This method utilizes a gear attached to the follow focus that meshes with a gear ring fitted onto the camera lens. This provides a more precise and consistent connection, ideal for lenses with compatible gear rings or when using the included silicone or snap-on gear rings.
Optional Accessories
SmallRig offers several optional accessories to enhance the functionality of the F60 Follow Focus:
- Rod Clamp (ID: 4151): A versatile clamp for securing 15mm rods.
- Quick Release Plate (ID: 3853): A plate designed for quick attachment and detachment of cameras or other gear.
- Silicone Gear (ID: 3852): An additional or replacement silicone gear for the follow focus system.
- Focus Adapter Part (ID: 3851): A component that may be used for specific lens adaptations or adjustments.
Installation and Operation
Preparation Before Attaching the Follow Focus Onto the Cage
Before mounting the follow focus, prepare your camera setup:
- Step 1: Attach 15mm Rod Clamp (with NATO Rail). Secure the rod clamp to your camera cage or rig. Arrows in the diagram indicate the connection points.
- Step 2: Insert 15mm Rod. Slide the 15mm rod through the rod clamp. Arrows show the rod being inserted.
- Step 3: Attach Snap-on Gear Ring. Fit the snap-on gear ring onto the camera lens. An arrow indicates the direction of attachment.
Side / Top Mounting the Follow Focus
The follow focus can be mounted in different positions relative to the camera:
- Side Mounting: The follow focus is typically mounted on a 15mm rod positioned to the side of the lens.
- Top Mounting: The follow focus can also be mounted on a rod or support system above the camera.
Adjusting Locking Angle: A detail view shows how to adjust the angle of the follow focus unit to ensure optimal engagement with the lens. Adjustment points are indicated by arrows.
Gear Contact: Ensure the follow focus gear makes firm contact with the lens or lens gear for smooth operation. A diagram illustrates the correct meshing of the gears.
Adjusting Mounting Method According to Lens
The installation can be adapted based on the lens and rig configuration:
- With 15mm Quick Release Arm: The follow focus can be attached via the quick release arm, providing flexibility in positioning.
- Without 15mm Quick Release Arm: The follow focus can be mounted directly, offering a more compact setup.
Adjustable AB Stop Mechanism
The follow focus features an adjustable AB stop mechanism, allowing users to define start and end points for focus pulls. The diagrams illustrate how to set these stops.
Changing Gear Mounting (Right to Left Side)
The gear assembly on the follow focus can be repositioned from the right side to the left side, or vice versa, to accommodate different shooting preferences or lens configurations. Diagrams show the steps for this conversion.
Damping Adjustment
Users can adjust the damping level of the focus knob to control the resistance and smoothness of focus movements. A diagram highlights the location for damping adjustments.
Forward / Reverse Rotation Switching
The direction of rotation for the focus knob can be switched. This feature is useful for lenses that rotate in opposite directions or for user preference. Diagrams illustrate the simple process of changing the rotation direction.
Marker Ring Replacement Procedure
The marker ring, used for marking focus distances, can be replaced. The procedure involves removing the existing ring and installing a new one. A note advises to align the new ring with the slot for correct installation.
Dual Rod Clamp Installation and Adjustment
The dual rod clamp provides additional mounting stability and adjustment options:
- Locking and Adjusting Lever: This lever is used to secure the clamp onto the rods and make adjustments.
- Tilt Angle Adjustment: The clamp allows for adjustment of the tilt angle, enabling precise positioning.
- Horizontal Positioning Adjustment: The horizontal position of the clamp can also be adjusted.
- Attaching Rod Clamp (ID: 4151): Diagrams show the steps for attaching the rod clamp to the follow focus system or camera rig.