My BMPCC 4K Handheld TILTA RIG BUILD

[@coreyedward8335]

This has to be one of my favorite builds. I'm about to buy my blackmagic and I have watched probably 20 hours worth of different builds. I feel like for the budget of all these I can get a solid set-up.

[@papajoe7]

Great job on the demo nice job I like it I like that Samsung drive so much easier just take it off plugin eating Peter, today easy peasy lemon squeezy

[@haydenfralin]

Been looking for a walkthrough like this 👌

[@Kadehr]

maaaaaan what an efficient rig! Can we see this rig in action in another video??

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks so much for watching! And absolutely, I've been recording some 360 BTS on my last couple shoots to show how it all handles. I will have a friend come out with me next time too so there is some third party footage.

[@DARTHNEWS]

I applied everything you said to my 6k that just arrived with my rig. Great video, thank man. Keep up the solid work #Subscribed

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks so much for watching! Hope you're enjoying your rig!

[@hutch_productions]

Clean vid bro

[@packzarker]

Would love to see a video of you transitioning from your handheld set up to the gimbal set up on the fly and what issues arise from the transition.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Perfect, I've got one in the editing phase right now that focuses on how this rig works in action. Overall though, it's a quick ten second or so transition.

[@CineFan911]

Sick rig, looks like Tilta also has a version of the handle without the follow focus dial for 80 bucks less.

[@ericcoen8894]

that version doesn’t have SSD slot

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Yeah they have a few different options which is awesome since everybody has different needs.

[@100x35Vlogs]

Really like the setup, everything is well thought and make sense. Good job!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

100x35Vlogs thanks so much for watching !

[@ob1kahaluc1nogen]

nice! thinking about buying it. subscribed to see more of it:)

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks for watching and subscribing! Let me know if you have any questions that I might be able to answer.

[@vladivalchanov]

You just won a new subscriber! Thanks for the amazing video. 2 questions, please. How much time this external battery gives you while filming 4k? And, please make a video to show this gear on set! Keep the great work! Regards, From Bulgaria

+1

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks so much! So the battery life is a great question with a nuanced answer. Shooting Q5 BRAW or 12:1 I can usually get around 2 - 2.5 hours out of a battery. Theres a little variation but I think it also has to do with how much I'm using the focus handle since it is powered by the same battery. But heavier codecs will result in reduced battery life for sure though. The worst battery life I've gotten is about 1.25 hours and that was shooting one of the mid levels of ProRes, which ends up being heavier than the lighter versions of BRAW. I will warn you though, the biggest issue I've had with these batteries is that they don't always drain to zero before the camera turns off. I've had the camera die at 30% inexplicably so I personally just shoot them down to around 40% before swapping them if I'm shooting something that needs continuous recording. And definitely, I've got an in action video in the editing stage now.

[@joelgarman]

@@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos Thanks for your answer! but Tbh this pushes me more towards a Vlok option. I don't like the idea of batteries dying at 30% xD Plus I have heard some people having issues powering both the camera and monitor from NP-F due to the Volts required

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

@@joelgarman Yup, it's definitely something to be aware of. The obvious trade offs are price and size when you go v lock, but it seems like they would be a more reliable option if you don't have the luxury of swapping batteries early while shooting. In most cases for me, I'm not doing constant recording for more than an hour on battery power anyways, so I can always swap out the battery well before it gets into the "danger zone". So far no horror stories for me while shooting with them on projects. But all depends on your needs!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

@@joelgarman And you know now that you mention it, it might actually be dying early in those certain modes due to me powering the follow focus at the same time as the camera from the same NPF. I'll test it out without the follow focus to confirm if it still dies early.

[@Kommentarkanal-pc5nl]

2:19 Why Did you use an extra clamp for the T5, the focus habdle is made for that!

[@damiencooper]

soo, you DO need to use a dummy battery setup with the side handle or not? Because if you do, I could just use the battery to power the monitor and use the dummy battery from there. No need for the side handle, right? I hear so many different things. Some use it directly into the camera, some don't

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

A friend of mine reached out to Tilta and technically you DON'T need to use a dummy battery. If you use the DC out (which requires that special cable) the handle will convert it automatically to work with the weipu port. I still opt for the dummy battery personally though just so it drains a little bit less battery from the NPFs.

[@festivaldayfilms]

Great video thanks! Is there any particular reason you go for the SSD holder on top as opposed to inside the handle?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Ric Rawlins thank you! Originally it was because I liked using the built in cable management clip on the cage to keep everything tucked, and obviously the cable is too short when in the clips to reach the handle when I switch it to gimbal mode. but since this video I’ve actually been using it in the handle holder as I figured out how to run the cable so it’s “neat enough” and still reaches both positions.

[@festivaldayfilms]

Thanks. Look forwards to your next video!

[@iivanov86]

I love it when someone in the comments has already asked the question I was about to ask. Even better when that question has gotten an answer already too lol. I was wondering why he was using the holder on top of the cage. Didn't make much sense. I would just use a longer cable and wrap it around if necessary lol

[@unfitcrit]

Great video, I modeled a build similar to yours. Question: I love the Type II connection functionality, but I ordered a Type I handle. Can the Type I be modified with the rosette connection?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Yup! It's $23 on the Tilta site: tilta.com/shop/tiltaing-side-handle-attachment-type-ii/

[@ThePowerchimp]

Im sorry - that handle has no DC 12V out socket???

[@avs2396]

What cables do you recommend to power the camera (no dummy battery) and the tilta motor? 8V for the camera and 12V for tilta motor? Thanks!

[@djrWkdakal]

I have a question. Does the battery in the side focus handle only power the follow focus? Can't power supply to the body?

[@j1jh002]

Thank you for making this video! I'm getting ready to buy this camera and this helped answer a lot of questions.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Jsh thats so great to hear, that’s exactly what makes it worth it to put this together. Let me know if you have any other questions on here or IG: @jonathanjacobs_ (DM me so I can follow you back)

[@j1jh002]

@@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos Thanks brotha, I really appreciate that! I will definitely keep this in mind in the upcoming future! Take care!

[@CaptainMyCaptain33]

Jsh I would recommend NOT building this guys rig. I hate sounding like a dick. Because I don’t want to be. But this is a bad build.....little more money and you can build a much better rig. When it comes to this camera and getting the most out of it. It’s all about the lenses. But you still need a camera build to not only run it. But run it the way it was mean to be run. Do not build your rig out from side to side. To many people are doing this and it’s ridiculous. Take a look at any high end camera and build your camera based on those. Definitely do not skimp out on cheap gear. The cheap stuff is junk. You’re going to have to spend at least 2 grand on a proper build. If you decide down the road this isn’t for you. A good set up will get back what you put into it. The cheap stuff won’t.

[@KozKreoleKwenKomedi]

Mad setup bro. My question is, am planning to invest in the cage too, but will the follow focus WLC-T04 communicate with the TA-SFH1-97-G battery grip/focus controller

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

I had to google all of those product numbers haha, but the answer is yes, and that is actually the exact setup in this video. I bought the WLC-T04 first to work with my A7iii, and then the focus handle once I got my blackmagic. Works great, just let me know if you need help calibrating it.

[@temurabdullaev7313]

Can you tell me if the side tilt handle comes with a power cable for the BMPCC 4K camera?

[@danielechavarriacaicedo6678]

hi! I have a question. The SSD Tilta holder works for the SSD Sandisk extreme Portable?

[@AlluX97]

How's the balance in the hands? does it feel front heavy while operating? are you getting any consistent type of jitter/shake cause of it?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Definitely a bit front heavy especially with the 18-35 since its pretty dense. But I usually remedy that by using my right hand to support the lens, tucking my elbows into my sides, and left hand on the focus handle. Another solution would be to use a rosette extension arm to move the handle forward toward the lens more.

[@bajentv8071]

How long does the battery last

[@Alexdeguzman_]

Dope rig man. I just picked up the items you listed and am loving it so far. Excited to take it out into the field. I appreciate your help.

[@dannybourne_]

Flawless presentation, very informative and interesting. #SUBSCRIBED

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks so much!

[@AndriyMarchyshyn]

Awesome video man! I was always curious about the Blackmagic platform and what's possible with it. Are you gonna keep building on this platform, or is the ultimate goal to get a RED?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks so much! And asking the real questions out here haha. To be honest right now I don't want to go to the big cinema cameras because I don't want to price myself out of my client's reach. Right now I'm doing a lot of work with small to mid sized businesses so I have to be realistic about what they can afford. The blackmagic does a good job of being priced like a mirrorless (actually cheaper) but with cinema camera capabilities. This allows me to continue to learn about the cinema world while being able to keep my expenses low. It's nice because with the mirrorless I was really pushing my A7iii to the max, but with this one I am literally using some of the most minimum settings. So there is a lot of room to learn and grow.

[@AndriyMarchyshyn]

@@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos That is awesome to hear! I have seen a few of your instastory posts, but have never seen your actual shoots! Do you post them anywhere, vimeo? That's great to hear about the possibilities of the blackmagic. I always wanted to get into videography, but always thought that you gotta either have the A7 or the GH5 to get these awesome shots!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Andriy Marchyshyn most of the projects I’ve gotten to shoot with this new guy have been client projects, hence why they live on other accounts and I share them via my IG story. But I’ll be sharing some personal projects on this channel as well, it’s just been -40° where I live so going outside to shoot just for fun has been a challenge lol. And the A7 and GH5 are all great options too. They’re all just different brushes to make something beautiful.

[@AndriyMarchyshyn]

@@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos Great to hear! Yea I hear you, I live in YEG so I have experienced that cold myself. Excited to see the upcoming content! Your videos are giving me the bug to start creating content as well.

[@itsbernardvideographer9356]

Dude, I bought the handle but I have no idea how to connect the handle to the camera? Tilta didn't provide a cable and you didn't cover that in your video :( and help or advice would be much appreciated! P.S. I'm referring how to use the follow focus.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

If you have a Nucleus Nano (2:10), it should have come with a micro usb to micro usb cable. One end goes into the port at the bottom of the handle, and the other end goes directly into the focus motor.

[@ankaer37]

Nice setup! I just got the pocket 4k w/meike 16mm lens, was there a reason you got rid of the meike lens?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks for watching! Main reason for me was just that I know for my long term gear lineup goals I’m going to be using primarily EF lenses, so it made sense for me to go the speedbooster route. The meike was great though while I had it.

[@pocabromaproduccions2]

great video! but one question: why use a battery with dc out? The tilta power side handle has its own dc out, isn't it?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

First reason was because that little micro DC cable was hard to get at the time, but also because the dummy battery runs at 7.4V while the dc out to the dc port runs at 12v. So I'm hoping I get a little bit more battery life out of doing it this way.

[@marcguffin3710]

That really is an awesome setup. I like the idea of mounting the Type II side handle via the nato/rosette connector. It's great to have the option to change the angle and quickly remove the handle. I would like to do that with with my own setup, but I'm afraid, it would make the rig too wide for my camera bag. Silly question: Could you tell me how wide it actually is?

[@DerSantana]

I had the same concern, so I did a little research and found a Rosette Adapter directly from Tilta (It's called Tilta TA-ARA1-G). It worked perfectly fine for my Tilta Cage and the Type 2 Handle and had less space in between than the build in this Video. Hope this helped :)

[@alexlyon4536]

Great setup, almost the same as mine You can save some money getting the small rig cage, and running the type 3 handle. Also, the side of the battery has a secure SSD holder, so get that off the top where it can be bumped.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks! And yup agree with everything. It's in the side handle now, just had to figure out some things with the balance on the gimbal and how to run the cable so its long enough.

[@sting9650]

I spoke with Blackmagic directly, they say one should avoid using dummy batteries to power the 4K as they say they’ve had customers burning our circuits as a result. The BM technician said you should always use the Lemo (the dc in) on the camera to power it externally. I’ve heard this from several sources, twice from Blackmagic. However I still see people using their dummy batteries, I guess the power issues don’t affect everyone?! Personally, (mainly because of what BM have told me.. twice!), I’d avoid using the dummy battery.. for now.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

I'm guessing any issues people have had arise from running multiple devices from the same battery, like a monitor and the camera. But for what its worth I personally I haven't had any issues in over 1.5 years running exclusively dummy batteries.

[@mylifepart2]

sick ..... man i dont even have a cage....yet ...!

[@moacarlsson7504]

How do you get the battery in and out on the tilta focus handle?

[@ScottBarker]

Scary terry to edit off your camera SSD like that. You're just asking for lost/corrupt files. But very cool that you can in a pinch, though.

[@baqcasanke]

Finally another person who doesnt like to edit off the ssd. I thought I was the only one. Do these people seriously start editing a project without making backups of the data??? Seems so risky. If you accidentally pull the cord out while editing you could ruin the files and then those were you’re only copy and yer screwed🤷‍♂️

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Yeah for sure, I'm living life on the edge haha, and yes everyone should practice good file management protocols of having a father copy, grandfather copy, son copy, etc. But to be honest in having used this setup heavily for over a year now I've had zero corruption issues with this drive at all (knock on wood.) Compared to SD cards where I've run into issues much more often. I even did have a situation where my gimbal went berserk and yanked on the cable to the point where it bent. But all I had to do was straighten out the little usb c port and it still worked good as new. So far I've been really happy with using the SSD and it's actually what makes it difficult to consider going to a camera that only uses some variation of internal cards.

[@timlawson3824]

I have pretty much the same tilta rig setup but really dislike how heavy and unbalanced it is with the bulky sidehandle, just a really strange formfactor for me. Your video looks super dope though!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Oh yeah definitely it can get front heavy when using weighty lenses. What I'd recommend for that is using a rosette extension to move the side focus handle forward a bit more toward the centre of the weight. I have a frankenstein build that I use that accomplishes something similar and it's a lot more comfortable with heavy lenses.

[@clementchinyanga1269]

how can i acquire one , the black mgic cinema camera

[@andyesparza3265]

Great vid! What usb typc c cable are you using? I can't seem to find one under 1'. Thanks!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Andy Esparza that one actually comes with the Tilta Cage Basic Kit that I got so it’s designed the be the perfect length.

[@Chuchuguitar]

Hello Jonathan, thanks for this video! Have you ever run into hard drive write speed limitations when recording at the most demanding setting?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

I never have actually. But to be fair, I typically stay at around BRAW Q5. I did just shoot about 1TB worth of green screen footage at ProRes 422 though with no issues on the T5.

[@joshuamartinstudios]

excellent review! i look forward to your full review

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks so much bro!

[@georgehughesfilms]

Would love to see how you balance the BMPCC 4K on your gimbal with this rig man! Great handheld set up :)

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Will do! I've got a video coming up that's in the editing phase right now that shows just that. It's not /PERFECT/, but a balance test will read as possible. Such an awkward shape to balance haha. Just needs some counterweights though.

[@itsmadisonhughes]

if I shoot this camera handheld will the shakiness be bad?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

What I usually do is tuck in my elbows to my sides to give a bit more stability in this configuration, but if I need to move my feet for a shot I'll usually put it on the gimbal.

[@wakkowarner8810]

What braw compression ratio or quality do you usually shoot in?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Usually in Q5, unless something needs quick turnaround and not a lot of color needs, then I'll shoot ProRes. BRAW is nice though because its actually usually smaller file sizes, just a longer workflow.

[@ryanlin5515]

what voltage are you getting from using this setup? I'm using the same setup on my 6k pro and the battery indicator says 11.4v. This is below the 12v that is recommended.

[@MitchLally]

Really sick man!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thank you!

[@Marvellens]

Nice rig man and nice video. If you just have time go and check my rig video too.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks for checking it out!

[@jefflarsen9249]

Can you not use dc cable to black magic power cable with those batteries?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Yup you can, but that one runs to the weipu port. Nothing wrong with that though, and it will probably give you a more consistent power source that using the dummy battery. But this solution has served me pretty well so far.

[@housevibez8828]

This looks really great!! :) Im new to this and would like to buy the 4K version. The problem is, i really have no idea what else i must buy for me to get the best video cinema quality to shoot some nice cinematic footage in nature. Lenses, speed boosters and other stuff... With the cage you got, does it work well to shoot a hand held mission or is it to shaky? For the start i would only use it for cinematic nature videos. Is there anything you could recommend?

[@maximiliankritter2303]

this is by far one of the most practical and flexible rigs I have seen for the bmpcc4k

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thank you and thanks for watching!

[@timlapointe4067]

Saw the first five seconds and subscribed (and then watched the rest). Love the intention you put into this video!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thank you so much Tim! Really appreciate you not only watching but taking the time out to comment. Means a lot to me.

[@coreyedward8335]

So I have the same setup. How do you power the camera with the Tilta battery arm/follow focus? Also how do you get the focus cable to the camera without the cable getting in the way? @JonathanJacobs

[@coreyedward8335]

@Jontathan Jacobs

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Sorry for the delay, just catching up with my youtube channel now. Camera is powered via the dummy battery. Focus cable is long enough to reach the handle when its on the gimbal, but I have my gimbal setup so it doesn't rotate too much. It basically just mimics my movement pretty closely so the cable doesn't tug at all.

[@armankizir2185]

What were to happen if you plugged the dc cable from the battery to the BMPCC 4K? People say it runs other say it will cause the camera to fail/shutdown

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

A friend of mine reached out to Tilta and technically you DON'T need to use a dummy battery. If you use the DC out (which requires that special cable) the handle will convert it automatically to work with the weipu port. I still opt for the dummy battery personally though just so it drains a little bit less battery from the NPFs, so I can't directly confirm or deny if it will cause the camera to shutdown.

[@sergiomartinez5946]

Hello I thought you could power the camera from the sidehandle. Is this true, and why not just do that instead of buying those batteries with a dummy battery? It's not hard to find a 12v DC cable and I think I'd rather go with that option.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Sergio Martinez the problem is that the handle requires a 12v MICRO DC Cable which is a bit harder to find, I think it’s only available through Tilta. The reason I chose to go this route additionally was because with this setup I’m not locked into the handle. I can mount the battery into a monitor and still power the camera simultaneously. I personally always prefer more flexibility.

[@sergiomartinez5946]

Jonathan Jacobs Oh ok! How long does that battery last? I think I will end up getting the cable with the mini plug as it would be good for my specific rig.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Average I’m getting is 2.5 - 3 hrs with it, camera on the entire time. In the cold below freezing temperatures I got about 1 hr 45 min.

[@sergiomartinez5946]

@@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos Thanks man that's a real help. I've been trying different ways to rig up my BMPCC4k on the Weebill-S, hopefully this one is the charm! Basically going Tilta half-cage with the power handle to hold battery and ssd. It meets my needs.

[@CalgaryCalamari]

Thanks for the quick overview! After watching a few reviews of this cage the thing I don't like about it is the lack of adjustment (forwards & backwards) for the handle, really big oversight when trying to balance a rig... Could you add a nato rail on top of the cage and adapt this setup for more adjustment? The top handle connector look a little proprietary...

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Yeah so the top handle is a bit stationary. Essentially theres a rail you slide it into and then you screw it in. Because of this, the holes that are directly in the centre of the cage are recessed a little because of that rail system. So hypothetically you could add a NATO rail screwed into those holes, but I'm not 100% sure it would work because of how recessed it is. My buddy Joshua has used a SmallRig handle on this before so I'd recommend getting in touch with him. His Instagram is @joshuamartinstudios

[@lilmikemikesix]

You can mount any top handle on this cage. But I have the Tilta brand top handle. You can actually mount it anywhere on the cage. But no one does it. Also, I do have both a full small rig build and a full Tilta build using all Tilta parts on the Tilta cage and all Small Rig parts on the Small Rig cage. I must be honest, I prefer the Tilta top handle because of how quick you can take it off when putting this camera on a gimbal. I have a very unique build the is more modular than anything I have saw so far. Just make sure if you get the Small Rig top handle use the Nato Rail one and put a Nato system on the cage. Because the screw on cheap one will slow your production down alot.

[@ColtonCapps]

I just bought the bmpcc 4k and I’ve been trying to figure out which accessories I should get with it. Great video, very helpful!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks for watching!

[@ArnoldMontes]

why don't you put your ssd into the tilta handle? You kept it at the top

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Yup its in there now. Back when I recorded this it was a mix of having the cable not get in the way when switching to gimbal mode and also getting it all the balance. But I got it all sorted so I can keep the SSD in the side handle now. Counterweights on the gimbal works well.

[@kirankiranmishra]

How about gimbal setup ???

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

I've got a new video in the editing phase showing the gimbal setup in a bit more detail. In short though, it's a bit heavy, but gets the job done and the convenience of being able to switch between handheld and gimbal quickly makes the weight worth it.

[@Alexdeguzman_]

Hey man. I’m able to get the nucleus nano calibrated with the wheel but I can’t figure out how to get it calibrated correctly with the tilta handle? Any help / tips?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Sorry for the delay, just catching up with my youtube channel now. Hoping you saw one of my other comments about this before it was too late. You basically hold down the cal button and then manually "simulate" the hard stops of a cine lens by stopping the rotation with your hand when it reaches the ends of the focus range.

[@yumyumbaskets]

Interesting that this vidoe show up good work man

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

YumYum Baskets Studio thanks for clicking on it and taking the time out to comment. I really appreciate it!

[@sahilchawla1137]

Sick dude! Thanks for sharing all this gold!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Sahil Chawla thanks for watching bro!

[@nickwhite8755]

Hey there, I got the Tilta Nano compatible side focus handle, the same battery, and a dummy battery cable. My camera is powering off on me when I hit record. Do you have this issue as well?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Hey Nick! I've only run into that issue when the power on the battery is getting low and I'm recording something more data intensive like a higher frame rate or codec. It seems like at a certain point it doesn't deliver enough power to keep it running the more robust files, but I usually encounter that once the battery drops down to around 30%. You can use the voltage view on the battery indicator as well to keep an eye on how much power is being delivered. If you keep having issues though I would recommend substituting the dummy battery cable for the Tilta micro dc cable that plugs into the bottom of the side focus handle. It should provide more consistent power.

[@nickwhite8755]

@@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos that's comforting. The battery came in without a charger and I was testing the rig setup when it happened. I was around 30%. I was concerned that it was the cable or that I should have been plugged into the side grip handle with a different dummy battery that fit. Is the Samsung T5 a battery hog? Do you keep backups of this particular NP-970 on your person?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

@@nickwhite8755 I wouldn’t call it a hog as I haven’t noticed a huge difference in using the SSD vs an SD card, but I can do some more controlled tests to see what the difference really is. Obviously it must be pulling some power. And personally I always have three of these exact NPFs with me.

[@nickwhite8755]

@@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos that would be very interesting to see!

[@frames2697]

Hey man! Is it 100% safe to use this battery solution? I've heard it was risky to use dummy batteries and whatnot... THANKS!!!!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

The risk you've been reading about usually comes from not using the correct power to the correct port. The DC "charging port" requires 12v. The dummy battery requires 7.4V. What you've probably seen is that sometimes people try to power the DC port using a 7.4V power source and it doesn't work. But I've personally had no problems with the camera failing using the power solution in this video. I will say though that recently I noticed on some of the heavier codecs the battery won't drain to when it reads 0% on the camera. I've had the camera die at 30%, so I guess at a certain battery level it just isn't enough to power the heavier settings.

[@SalyarAli]

Thank you for making this video! Tell me please how can you use the focus wheel and SSD at the same time? Because you have only one type-c slot.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

No problem! SSD connects via USB C. Focus handle connects via a micro USB port on the bottom of the handle that plugs directly into the focus motor.

[@dannybourne_]

Very good. Really enjoyed watching it, great style of presentation too. SUBSCRIBED

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@karimbiri]

I cant stand rigs, they are bulky and heavy, however they are a necessary evil since the heavier the camera, the smoother , more organic the footage. professional camera operator dont have Ibis but can get really smooth footage.Also its way easier to pull focus manually with a heavy rig without getting micro jitter etc.... adding a matte box v mount battery and monitor can also make it easier to balance properly. I personally think a heavy well balance rig should come first for properly operating a camera not a gimbal. Nice work :)

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

For me the main reason I went the rig route versus using it bare is because of the additional mounting points. The instruction manual specifically says not to mount top handles directly to the camera so I prefer not to risk breaking it. I definitely get what you’re saying about heavier rigs though. I like to have mine light enough that it doesn’t become a nuisance.

[@StickmanProductions]

Using the dummy battery keeps the door open. Anyone have suggestions? I'm afraid it's going to break off.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

You can actually remove the door entirely, that's what I did. It's spring loaded if that helps point you in the right direction.

[@DerekMcLaughlin-me]

How do you find the image stabilization with just using the cage vs the Ronin S?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

It's a different vibe for sure. Generally speaking, if I need to move my feet, I'd go with the gimbal setup. If I can mainly just move my arms, I'll go handheld. But using the top handle gives it a cool look too, even when walking. It's more of a gentle sway feel which gives more emotion at times than a gimbal, but without looking too nauseating when you see it on a big screen.

[@Roboccobo]

How much camera on time do you get per battery?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Depends heavily on the settings you're shooting at. Lighter codes will get you around 2-2.5hours of battery life consistently. But at the heavier settings the worst I've gotten is around 1.25 hours on a battery.

[@napatsaeng]

On gimbal can use follow focus?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Yup! And it's increddddible, one of my favourite features. New video coming soon showing how it all works. Just in the editing phase.

[@MarcusLaingFilms]

Nice video! What adapter do I need to connect my Tilta III handle to my bmpcc? I already have the Small rig mini quick release nato rail attached to the side but the type III doesn't mount to it? Thanks in advance!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

The Type III is just a 1/4"-20 if I remember right so it should just screw right in. But you can also get a SmallRig NATO Clamp like this one and screw the Type iii into that: www.amazon.ca/Smallrig-serrage-rapide-M2-5-Filetage-1973/dp/B072B91DWG/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=nato+clamp&qid=1597808901&sr=8-3

[@MondragonCartel]

Great Video man. How many hours of battery life do you get when you power from the side handle battery?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks so much! I will do a more scientific test when I recap this build but by my observation I typically do 4 hour shoots and run through two of the NPF batteries, and have one more spare just in case. So i'd say budget around 2 hours depending on how you use the camera (full brightness, always on, etc.)

[@a-tundra]

Hi Jonathan. Nice video and very cool rig. I just didn't got how you power de nucleus nano. How do you do it?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks for watching and sorry for not being clear on that. The nucleus nano is powered by the side focus handle through a micro usb c port on the bottom of it, which is powered directly from the same NPF battery that powers the camera.

[@davidboerst4789]

are you able to use the rec button on the handgrip?

[@NickVanHouse]

No

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

As far as I've read, still no. And I say still because I have seen murmurings that this functionality might become available eventually. The best I've seen are some custom bluetooth remotes for the BMPCC 4K.

[@wayneplayz3949]

Hi, why didnt you just use the type 2 handle's 12v out to the camera instead of the dummy battery?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

First reason was because that little micro DC cable was hard to get at the time, but also because the dummy battery runs at 7.4V while the dc out to the dc port runs at 12v. So I'm hoping I get a little bit more battery life out of doing it this way.

[@youngjesuss]

How do you power your external monitor? Can it be powered with the current battery and which cables are you using for it?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

I personally power the external monitor with a separate NPF battery (a thinner one) when I'm using it in my setup, but to be honest I've rarely used an external monitor for my purposes.

[@outtastock922]

Best rig I saw so far for my needs, thanks! If you add the EU links I'd buy through them to support your channel. Cheers!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks so much I really appreciated that.

[@outspokentimes320]

WE. NEED. MORE. CONTENT!! Liked the video a lot. I look forward to seeing more of your content in the future!!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Sorry for the delay, just catching up with my youtube channel now. And finally posting more actively. Thanks for subscribing!

[@krammman]

why put your SSD on the top of the cage , when you can put it in the handle??

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

just an update, I did get it working in the handle in a slightly different wire orientation. New video coming soon showing this whole rig in action.

[@MistaFussichannel]

It’s a shame it won’t allow you to power the camera via the dc socket. I use an NPF battery plate with a battery in the camera. The internal battery acts as a buffer when changing batteries. It switches seamlessly when the external battery runs out. Gives you about 30 mins to change your external battery. This way you get uninterrupted power. The Tilta cage looks awesome. I went for the cheaper Smallrig cage.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

So if you buy the micro dc cable from Tilta and get the power from the handle instead of directly from the battery you can run it directly into the DC socket. I was talking with somebody else about this and they email Tilta who responded saying that the handle actually upconverts the voltage (no clue if thats technically the correct way to describe that but you get the point) so that it can safely power the camera through the dc socket.

[@MistaFussichannel]

Jonathan Jacobs :Thank you for getting back to me. I think the handle with the battery in is an elegant solution. That Tilta cage is both practical and stylish. Thanks again.

[@TravisEarsman]

Brilliant setup mate! My question is: with the power bank you’ve added, could one power the Nano and a monitor using the DC out from the handle itself, and then power the BMPCC from the DC out from the power bank?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Sorry for the delay, just catching up with my youtube channel now. Technically yes, but I wouldn't advise it as I think it would draw too much power and your camera probably wouldn't be able to get enough juice if that makes sense. In this configuration that single battery is already powering the camera and the handle, so adding a monitor would probably lead to power loss on one of them. I'd recommend just going with a separate small NPF for the monitor.

[@movieimix269]

Friend! I have the same Tilta with a fallow focus. How do I set a wider focus range? It's hard to keep focus. At the slightest turn of the wheel, the focus is lost.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

I use the CAL button to calibrate the focus handle to the lens I'm using. Let me know if you need more info on that. But I think the real answer to your question is that photo lenses intentionally have a shorter focus range than cinema lenses. For photography, you want to be able to get to your focus in the quickest amount of time, so that's why it has the slightest turn of the wheel changing focus. Try out a cheaper cinema lens like the Meike lineup and you'll notice it has a much larger "focus throw", so you can be a lot more precise with your focus.

[@andilematomela2043]

Great video! You really helped me figure out a way to switch from handheld to gimbal and still be able to pull focus manually! None of the other huge youtubers could provide that clarity for me and you did! Thank you!

[@andilematomela2043]

I had no idea the tilta handle could also work on my ronin s

[@adrianzaharia8885]

Yeah...you converted real good the wWh....48.84Wh.

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

whew, glad I got that right haha. Math has definitely never been my strong suit lol. Thanks for confirming!

[@dukebozikowski3801]

Perfect rig imo! Good job!

[@seankhodai4013]

Awesome build - when you switch from this rig to your Ronin - you need to unplug both the camera power cable and follow focus power cable from the side handle when moving to the Ronin right - has this been much of an issue or a pain in going from handheld rig to ronin setup?

[@ghospod]

up

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Sorry for the delay, just catching up with my youtube channel now. To answer your question, nope! everything could stay plugged in and on if you wanted it to. Of course, the startup time on these cameras are so quick that its not a huge deal to power off and on, but if you were really try to do the switch at like a wedding or something like that where theres no time to waste, you could easily do it without unplugging.

[@sayhellojordan2671]

what are you using to mount the monitor on your handle and how do you like it?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Jordan Velez that’s an Acouto 1/4'' Screw Hot Shoe Mount. It does the job, doesn’t get loose at all and start to slump so that’s good.

[@Mightythunder0987]

Slick set up. James Matthews has a clean set up as well for his pocket 6k

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

It's Juan thank you! And yeah his is even more minimal. I love how flexible these cameras are with all the different accessories you can use with them.

[@jimster7645]

what city are you based out of and what type of work do you do?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Based in Calgary AB and I primarily shoot commercial work for local and regional businesses in additional to working with some national brands via me and my wife's personal brands.

[@AlexGalanFilms]

bro I bought the handle but I've had problems callibrating it with that specific lens...I did everything Tilta says in their tutorial video, but as the focus ring on that Sigma lens is infinite, has been impossible for me to callibrate the finger ring in the handle to go from start to end correctly with the start to end in the lens....have you figured out a way?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Alex Galan yeah the Tilta way was super confusing to me too, so I ended up doing it the “unofficial” way lol. All you have to do is hold the cal button down until it starts to auto rotate and calibrate. Then here’s the trick, watch the distance meter at the top of the lens closely and when it gets to the end of the range, physically grab the focus ring to stop it. Basically you are providing the hard stops at the end of the range. If you time it right you can get it perfectly lined up and it’s actually way faster to setup than doing it the traditional process.

[@AlexGalanFilms]

@@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos broooooo thanks!! LOL

[@hellobonanza]

@@AlexGalanFilms @jonathanjacobs Hi guys, I'm having the exact same problem... Did you guys finally find an official version of a tutorial on how to calibrate the motor for the sigma 18-35 and a side handle? I don't know where to start looking...

[@AlexGalanFilms]

@@hellobonanza hey man!! You have to do autocalinration and stop the ring with the hand when u see it geta to the end of both ranges

[@hellobonanza]

@@AlexGalanFilms thanks a million, bro. Listen, I have a weird question :) and I even want to pay a few bucks for it, but would you mind filming yourself (tutorial-wise quick and dirty) while you do it and share it with me? 🤣 the thing is : I’m a producer and not a cameraman and I have to explain this to several people as we will use this set for a production. Nothing fancy, just real fast, quick and dirty, your hands and the gear. As said: if you have PayPal: let me give you something ! [e-mail] ps: you have the side handle and the same lense right?

[@Josh_G]

Can you put this rig on the ronin S without any issues?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

I wouldn't say without any issue, but it is possible. I use it like that all the time, but it requires you to mount the ronin s plate off centred, and to use counterweights on the gimbal. I've got a full video that goes more into depth in the editing phase now. It's definitely not the best camera to balance on a Ronin S, but you can get it to work and I've used it successfully on several gigs.

[@34OLD]

Bruh can you wake up! You putting me to sleep

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

hahaha, I'll try.

[@one901]

Love the side handle. I have a Small rig half cage but I might look into this. Any tips on getting good audio from the Rode Wireless? Mine is always too low via 3.5mm jack

[@joelgarman]

use a mini xlr to xlr cable. Check out the Beachtek DXA micro pro

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Yeah this side handle is super clutch. I've got some different rig setups that I run and the handle is a nice piece to be able to have power, focus, and memory all in one compact package. And for the Rode Wireless, this is probably something you already checked, but did you make sure the gain adjustment on the receiver is set to the highest level? I know I personally have accidentally had mine set to the lowest setting and been perplexed as to why its so quiet lol.

[@13lukaluka]

Great rig! Would love to see how that handle operates on gimbal

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

lukson thank you! And definitely, will probably be my next video.

[@dna8269]

@@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos Great video! Really want to see that Ronin video. Subbed

[@K1Prod]

agreed

[@jordanakw]

Very solid setup! Really like the handle

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thank you and same, the handle is my favourite part.

[@jb_tb]

is that battery safety?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

The battery is safe when using a dummy battery to power the camera. It does not provide enough power to power the camera directly through the weipu port.

[@nesks]

Thank you for your video. Good job!!!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thanks for watching!

[@freejay3]

ISnt that gimbal hitting the handle?

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Jay Freeman good eye, but it doesn’t because of the way I have my settings dialed in on the Ronin. It basically follows wherever I’m pointing it. But when I’m doing things like motion time lapse I have to keep where the handle would hit the gimbal arm in mind as a hard stop.

[@therealeffect]

Beautifully put together

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Thank you so much!

[@HandMaded]

isn't a little bit big setup?!!!

[@JonathanJacobsMakesVideos]

Definitely! Compared to what I used to shoot with using my A7iii. But believe it or not, the setups get A LOT bigger than this one haha.