SteadiHub
2009Follow Focus forum

Desired features and capabilities for remote follow focus systems

17 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • A comprehensive remote follow focus system should include a hand unit with a color touchscreen display, wireless connectivity options, video feed input capability, and multi-channel functionality
  • The motor driver component should be lightweight, compact, water-resistant, and feature wireless connectivity with multi-motor support and easy recalibration
  • Motors should be lightweight, quiet, have tool-less gear and mounting solutions, include over-torque protection, and support both wireless and hardline operation modes
  • The market for affordable remote follow focus systems (under $2000 for single channel) was expected to expand significantly around 2010, potentially offering competition to established high-end manufacturers
  • Practical challenges that users identified include bulky battery packs that operators must wear and the need for equipment to withstand harsh field conditions including extreme temperatures and rough handling

Depends on

  • The discussion dates from 2009-2010 and reflects technology capabilities and market conditions from that era
  • Multiple detailed feature wishlists were proposed but their actual feasibility and implementation status remained unclear
  • Some product announcements were made but completion timelines and final specifications were not confirmed in the discussion

Gear in this thread

BFD

Parts

Follow Focus

Same gear or parts

  1. 2026Swapping an ARRI ALEXA 35 between tripod/studio and Steadicam® mounting: baseplate choice and fastest workflow.FacebookSteadicam operators group
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  3. 2025History of wireless focus and lens control systems for Steadicam®: from cable-based Cinema Products and Seitz to Preston digital, and European solutions by Chrosziel, cmotion, and ARRI.FacebookSteadicam operators group
  4. 2025LC-1 (Lens Control-1) follow focus system: wired architecture, motors, and early operational experience (1990s).FacebookThe Steadicam Group
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