The sad truth is they are going to release a newer version that adds all of the features that the original camera is missing. Dji products never have a long shelf life because they make new cameras, drones almost every year. I bought a Mavic 3 and it took almost a year to get all the features that were promised originally. The 4d is a excellent camera, but you should sell it while it still has most of its value! I definitely sold the drone while it was still new. Thanks for another great video!
I love this camera i hear your points too tho but man i shoot commercials, and reality television all the time with this guy i have a RED and the ronin4d and i go back an fourth all the time on set the image is crazy good on the 4d mixes well with the red
@@staticmotion1628 I’m also a professional videographer that does commercial work, your right, it’s a awesome camera. I hope they continue to update it for the creators and professionals that bought it.
Couldn't agree with you more about this camera being really good as it is right now. It's so versatile. I hope that DJI continues to invest into it, but I can't comprehend how the SDI/XLR adapter hasn't been released yet.
We've been using this camera for about 6 months, and for a small crew like us we could not replace it with anything else. Paired with vintage lenses or small anamorphic like Laowa Nanomorph, it's just a beast and really changed our workflow in terms of setup and breakdown. No more fiddling around with follow focus, wireless, power and data cables.. This you can just pull it out from the case and its ready to go. Personally I'm just waiting for the 3-channel follow focus, hope they release that soon. I don't care about xlr module because we just use an external recorder and just has better pre-amps. About the bag, I would reccomend you the Tenba Cineluxe Roller 24 Bag. The 4d fits all rigged up, with 2x wireless monitors, couple of lenses and extra batteries.
Bro I had to stop the video about 40 seconds in to tell you that I think you're doing great. You're so damn likable. You're going to be huge on RUclips if you want!
The problem of this camera was RED, they have the patents for raw compression… so you have to had the blessing to compress 4k raw or higher, DJI have for drones, so when RED find out about this camera, they force DJI to stop the production… RED is killing the camera industry.
The camera never stoped production, it just not record RAW right now.. I think they will add it as an additional paying option later or maybe to a external recorder.
Can't believe the timing for the new announcement of the Flex cable shortly after watching this video. Would really like to see an update on how it might change things for you and your fears about the camera's future. Great video, thanks mate
I think the biggest thing the next IT camera needs, is built in NDs on a small body. The problem with this camera is stabilization and lidar autofocus aren't really the areas that people badly need. Its the most unique and has incredible use cases. But a build in ND on a camera smaller and cheaper than the Fx6 is truly the next step.
Stumbled on your channel today. Man, your shots are absolutely gorgeous! Simply outstanding. As a primary solo operator myself, your information was so relevant and well presented, keep it up!
I had the opportunity to work this camera on a couple shoots. Really enjoy it and honestly think it's a taste of something I'd like to see more of in the future. That said, I do most of the purchasing recommendations for the commercial production department of local TV station, and I can't make the recommendation of buying into it on this generation. Which sucks because I'd really like to, but until we see DJI's level of support and investment into the system I can't make bets on it that are going to have to pay off 5 to 10 years from now. I really hope DJI sticks with this system because the main thing it needs to prove itself in the marketplace is time.
DJI have had many restrictions placed on their commercial activities since they announced the 4D; we're talking being banned from trade shows or blacklisted in several territories not to mention the tightening of drone regulations that have deterred if not effectively grounded many pilots. Certainly it is smaller (and presumably less profitable) consumer drones that suddenly seem to be the order of the day. This has to have negatively affected their projected turnover. So, even though I remain puzzled by some of the delays (it was months before I could get extra control handles, for example), I can't be too hard on them without knowing their challenges. Like you said, I bought the 4D for what the camera was and consider what I might be able to do with it in the future to be sugar on top. Chinese compatriots Tilta already weighed in with a few accessories, so maybe they and third parties from countries which don't regard DJI as persona non grata will increase their support.
That's interesting, when this first came out DJI had every known Content Creator and RUclipsr use it to get first dibs on it and most praise this camera. I thought it was a great camera and hope to buy it in the future. Then everyone stop talking about it as if it wasn't what it were cut out to be. But it's good to see that you got plenty of use out of it and it worked out for yourself
I think it's less that it's not as good as people though, and more that it's not new and shiny and people have moved on to just using it as a tool, as we know views make the money and the majority of people interested in this already know about it, meaning it doesn't make sense for everyone to keep making videos about it. I use mine several times a week, and everyone that sees it for the first time is fascinated by it.
Very glad that when I came across your video that DJI has been delivering with the Flex, audio adapter, 8k. Likely going to buy it as it does seem DJI will continue supporting it and coming out with updates and accessories.
2:00 that description is similarly spoken to the way people talk about apple. The final experience is more than the sum of its parts. I think the 4D could definitely keep up in the current market, but DJI probibly needs to sell more units. They should sell to Nikon so they can have a cinema camera.
Thank you for doing this one year review of the Ronan 4D Chris. I have been following the development of this camera platform (Or lack of development ?) since the Ronan 4D's initial release last year. There was a great deal of heavy blitz publicity courtesy of DJI and then suddenly "the big clam up." When a company suddenly makes a Left turn with a product, then you can be rest assured there's a big problem. From listening to you talk, it sounds like you may not know the reason why DJI has so suddenly gone silent with the Ronan 4D ? RED has an exclusive Patent of RAW digital Video recording technology. Many in our industry think RED should never have been granted such an exclusive and all encompassing patent for RAW recording technology as they have been given. DJI was approached by RED and told to remove the RAW recording capabilities of the Ronan 4D, or face legal proceedings on the basis of Patent infringement.🤔For many in the professional Cinema Industry world wide, the lack of a RAW recording capability is a deal breaker. Therefore, this product has been ruined by RED ! The camera is for all intensive purposes a boat anker ! As far as I am concerned, I would still consider purchasing the Ronan 4D even if DJI fails to follow through with the 8K version (Which is the one I have been waiting for to purchase), and even though the camera can no longer shoot in RAW format (If you didn't do any firmware updates, then you still have this capability if you own an originally first released 6K Ronan 4D !) DON'T DO ANY FIRMWARE UPDATES TO YOUR RONAN 4D FROM ORIGINAL RELEASED CAMERA FIRMWARE, OR YOU WILL HAVE THE RAW FEATURE REMOVED ! There is also the risc that if you do shoot a commercial production with a Ronan 4D in RAW, then RED could come after you legally. RED has been quite aggressive in pursuing any company legally which has tried to violate their stranglehold on in camera RAW recording. Nikon is fighting RED's patent claims on RAW in camera recording in court. There is one other company also fighting RED in court as well. The chances of DJI pulling out and cutting their losses versus taking a protracted wait and see stance to see how Nikon fairs in court is not small. I think you have a collector's item there. I hope to collect a Ronan 4D for myself in 8K, but barring that eventuality, I will snap up a 6K as soon as possible before there's none left ! The Ronan 4D is an amazing piece of technology. 👍
It’s my favorite camera I’ve ever filmed with. I got 2 fully spec’d out. Clients love the wireless monitoring and so do the AC’s I work with. Plus it films easy on a steadicam as well.
Bro I color graded some of the sample footage from this cameras and the image quality is insane. IQ is so top notch. It’s sad they were never able to get raw for the camera.
Great content, and love some of the b-roll you included. Subbed! I'm renting one of these next week and considering buying one... it would be great to get some official news from DJI on what's to come!
It's a good thing I didn't give up on this a The movie Civil War has confirmed that you can still make a banger of a movie with this Camera. Sometimes you gotta wait a year or two to really judge what a camera can really do...
Great update. I love the idea of this camera but just never pulled the trigger. I’m hoping we will hear more this year about the future of this system from DJI
Great video Chris. What do you find is your typical workflow for cropping into the footage. Because I think it only films in 17:9 and so I think that means you have to crop into the picture to adjust it for 16:9, am I correct? Also, is there a way to mount the monitor on the top of the handle instead of on one of the sides of the handle? Thanks!!
Chris, loving your content :) Can you tell me more about the Tilta Float. I. need something to save my poor old tied back haha. Considered the easyrig too but never used either. I have a Ronin RS3 Pro and BM 6K. Leaning towards the float and tilta duel handle
Great video. This camera got me new jobs on the spot of a shoot for a client as the camera caught their attention. I love the ease of using it. Out of the transportation box and it's ready to use. I also use the Tilta Float, and it is so easy to use for a long shoot. Crossing the fingers that DJI will continue with developing the Ronin 4D.
I've been told by at least 2 DJI contacts an "exciting update" is coming so I'm cautiously optimistic. For now, it's stressfull to have your fingers crossed for over a year. I think owners will be ok...right? Right?!?!
it's luminous! I mean the style and feel of this review. Incredible mix of intelligence, emotional grown-up positivity. "Good cameras are cheap. And cheap cameras are getting pretty good..." I know it's not from this review but it's a perfect example of attitude that makes it oh, so wonderful.
@ChrisFranklinJr - Thank you for your in depth video on the Ronin. 👍🏾 You put a lot of effort into it and covered many points and questions I was looking an answer to. I am curious about the tilta float you're using. On their website I see multiple options: the handheld, the dual handheld and the gimbal support system. Which one do you have and do you think I will, like you, protect my back with the Tilta Float Handheld Support System for $999? It seems like the two more expensive options aren't necessary and the funds rather go into the shoulder strap. Cheers, Oli 🤙🏾 PS: I'd love to see more of your work you've shot with the ronin. Can you point me to some of it on your site or other online place?
I was suuuuper excited for this cam, but once I saw the bullshit RED was pulling with the RAW recording and the inability to fly any of my anamorphic lens adapter setups while still being able to use the Z-axis feature, it was a wrap. I'm super excited about a V.2, a 4D Mark II or something. Because like you said, what it does do, it does REALLY well. Fingers crossed!
i learned a valuable lesson with DJI cameras, not gimbles or drones, but the actual cinema cameras they make, i owned a osmo x5 pro ! so i know how they can be, they will always over promise a lot of cool features , they will always have a huge ecosystem to buy into (expensive), they will always have a a certain feature that is very revolutionary , but you'll learn slowly but surely other camera manufactures will eventually do the same thing but cheaper, the main thing they will do , they will abandon the product 2 or 3 years in! (Not to mention RED" killed off any idea for them to ever use "RAW" on this due to trademarks)
Beautiful footage, Chris! As a colorist I've notice the footage from Ronin 4d got some weird chroma noise on green and blue. Other than this, Ronin 4d is solid camera even I wanna own one.
You know when this camera came out and I started drooling over it. I wanted to invest into something that I could use it in multiple ways and having a built-in gimbal truly impressed me. Everybody was raving about it and they were all pre-production models. so I knew everybody was pre-ordering it, and it was gonna be a couple more months before I would know more about it. So I waited and really never heard much more about it. A lot of the stuff I thought came with it, does not. And even after a year like you have owned it. There’s still not too much talk about this camera. I am a professional photographer that wants to get into the video side. But I think I will pick up a Sony FX6because I am so invested into the Sony ecosystem already. But don’t get me wrong this DJI ronin 4D still is a unique bad ass camera. But I don’t think it will be for me. It might be overkill.
I picked one up used a few months back and I haven't used my old rig once since. At retail price I don't think I'd be in, but at 5300 it was absolutely worth it.
I am reluctant to buy anything DJI having experienced many of their products, starting with the original Ronin. There are little to no legacy product users under the DJI banner for two reasons - proprietary power systems and reliance on app support for critical systems. For half the price of the 4D I can buy a PCC6K Pro/Ronin RS3 combo and basically get the same system, only I get BRAW, EF lens mount with decades of available glass and the ability to go straight hand held with the 6K in some situations, utilizing the gyro stabilization in DaVinci Resolve, reducing the weight and bulk of my rig on fast-paced shoots. BMD should pay me for all the free advertising I give them, but I just love the platform and can't stop recommending it to anyone I meet.
Great video - really wish the price point wasn't so high - the features are targeting a users with a lower budget. In terms of case, I would look into a soft/hard case such as the Shape camera bag or Tenba bags. I used to use a hard plastic case but the soft cases with hard shells are much better.
Hi Chris! Thank you for this video! I follow your channel since I am on a similar journey as you professionally but in a different region of the world. I wanted to ask you if I were to invest and buy the RONIN 4D, are there things you wish you had known or thought about before buying it? And especially with the knowledge you now posses having it for about a year. Thanks 😊. Things maybe you haven’t mentioned in the video?
I would get in the FB group and look at common problems or solutions! This thing is HEAVY but very cool! I love having the ability to AF as well. I would look into a good carrying case as well! Transport is important as this thing is fragile!
Hi Chris, I just ha e a quick question for you about the lenses. Do you need lens support when using the vespid primes with the ronin 4d? Or can you goball day without lens support? Thanks, man! Really appreciate it!
Well God, I hope so I just bought one! Even knowing this is a huge risk, if the build quality and spare parts are there I think you can make it work maybe?? Using it for the week I've owned it, it's a nice platform to work with. Certainly the nicest (smoothest) gimbal if used.
If you're ONLY doing real estate the 4D will provide superior image and easier setup, but it's not as versatile as an FX3 if you ever want to do more! (Like interviews or take a photo)
Just used the Camera for the first time… I LOVE IT! Could you try out the Xeen CF lenses by any chance? On paper, they should fit with the counter weight. Love the look of those. They are some gorgeous pieces of cine glass, really digging the look. Greetings from Switzerland 🔥🤘🏼
This camera scared me from the start. Honestly mostly because of the company that put it out. To me it was a huge jump from drones to cinema cameras. I appreciate the update and glad you have recouped your investment on it.
RAW IS NEVER COMING TO THIS CAMERA! the footage but depth and colors are still great . But RED made sure that camera would never get raw but people who don’t care about raw, this camera is more than Good
great job man. I have the same set up like you without the lens. 😢 but like you said its a great great camera. the only cons for me like you said its heavy and I also have the tilta like yours and its great. 😅 thanks keep it up
I am tired of searching people review Z axis in detail. Can you pleass make a separate video just covering the accuracy and efficency of Z axis. This ronin 4d is a game changer not mainly because of ergonomics or camera quality but Z Axis as it is the first Z Axis gimbal. I wanted to see how steady the z axis can make footage. Will it be as steady as a mounting the cam on conventional cars or tracks ?
Great video. How do you get around the Tilta Float blocking the bottom sensors? I was using this on a big event streamed to 3 million people last week, and engaging the Z axis still didn't make for a perfectly smooth look (you could see some bounce in the foreground using DJI 50mm on Super35 Crop). Was annoying!
As a commercial Drone video maker I can tell you that DJI never ever held their promisses. I will never buy anything expensive from DJI based on their promisses. DJI has great products but all of them feel somewhat unfinished.
I feel this camera was not meant to be the main camera it should be a tool to make certain other shots simpler like having a b-cam on a steadicam to speed up the process
So I'm wondering why my Ronin 4D won't record. I have the right card in the slot. Every time I push the record button a message comes up that says "Hi we make it very difficult for people to use this camera" Ok it might as well say that. It says activate dji ronin 4d using dji assistant 2, so i did that. what am i missing? has anybody else experienced this? every other camera on the planet out of the box you push record and by a miracle it works. very frustrating. is there another wire I need to attach to program it?
I would say that given what's going on with DJI as of late, the best bet is probably some modding from a dedicated group along the lines of Magic Lantern. But that's just my opinion.
Drone pilot here... DJI makes great gear, but will not hold support, probably... as soon as they release a new model in the same product line, you are doomed... non compatibility to force you to upgrade, no new firmware upgrades or replacement parts produced, etc... I would be scared to spend so much on a DJI product in that range... and I am used to throw some thousands in their drones and FPV gear.
This company should have been knocking down your door to take care of your needs considering that you have been one of their biggest supporters, I did rent it for 4 days and it’s great, but when it came time to pull the trigger and get a big boy camera I ended up going with the blackmagic12K that’s already gone thru it’s price reduction, the sales numbers of the DJI is not the best, and the only way it looks like they can keep it relevant is to drop the price at least 2,000.00 and that will still make it a 4,800 dollar camera, so to your other point, if they don’t have the sales numbers to justify working on upgrades specifically for only one of the cameras in their line are they going to do that, or just cut and run to something else, none the less it’s a beautiful camera, DJI needs to send you a check for all the promo you have done for them
I saw somewhere that DJI was sued by Red for patent infringement or technology in the 4D camera. That might explain why it is essentially a dead camera.
It was certainly compromised but "dead" may be a stretch. You may be referring to the ProRes RAW codec DJI initially promised but were forced to withdraw (with a small reduction in the purchase price). It was included on early examples (my 4D was purchased in March 2022) but the act of registering and activating the camera included a mandatory firmware update which removed it. RED are also suing Nikon, who they claim have breached their patent by including ProRes RAW (HQ 12-bit) on their Z9. Amazingly, RED's patent not only precludes other manufacturers from offering ProRes RAW but also any similar RAW compression in the future, plenty of people have Z9s in their hands already, myself included, so if RED wins its case, we'll all still have ProRes RAW and its hard for me to see what anyone could do about it if we stick to the current firmware.
It will not and it will not get support from DJI. The Ronin D is a Niche camera. It happened to me with the DJI X5 Osmo Pro. I paid well over 3K . It produced some pretty good footage but had too many quirks . Then all of a sudden there were no more updates and DJI stop supporting the camera. My advice, stick to Sony Alfa, Canon, Red, Blackmagic. Don't believe in DJI promises. "Promises Thomas's and can't make toast".
Its my dream. Even if it is what it is right now. Everything else is just gravy. But... I'm still eating hotdogs. Love my GH5, but its definitely showing its age!
I actually just put mine on eBay :-( All points agreed the thing it does good it's unmatched. I just think it's more than what I need at this point. This video will really impact my ability to sell lol
Owning this camera scares me... BUT I'm hopeful! Are you looking forward to any new cameras this year?
The sad truth is they are going to release a newer version that adds all of the features that the original camera is missing. Dji products never have a long shelf life because they make new cameras, drones almost every year. I bought a Mavic 3 and it took almost a year to get all the features that were promised originally. The 4d is a excellent camera, but you should sell it while it still has most of its value! I definitely sold the drone while it was still new. Thanks for another great video!
It's a shame to hear that DJI has dropped the ball on this camera. I'm looking forward to picking up the FX30 that I'll probably get tomorrow!
I love this camera i hear your points too tho but man i shoot commercials, and reality television all the time with this guy i have a RED and the ronin4d and i go back an fourth all the time on set the image is crazy good on the 4d mixes well with the red
@@staticmotion1628 I’m also a professional videographer that does commercial work, your right, it’s a awesome camera. I hope they continue to update it for the creators and professionals that bought it.
Hoping Panasonic brings out the S1H mark II. Would be a beast in a compact body.
Couldn't agree with you more about this camera being really good as it is right now. It's so versatile. I hope that DJI continues to invest into it, but I can't comprehend how the SDI/XLR adapter hasn't been released yet.
We've been using this camera for about 6 months, and for a small crew like us we could not replace it with anything else. Paired with vintage lenses or small anamorphic like Laowa Nanomorph, it's just a beast and really changed our workflow in terms of setup and breakdown. No more fiddling around with follow focus, wireless, power and data cables.. This you can just pull it out from the case and its ready to go. Personally I'm just waiting for the 3-channel follow focus, hope they release that soon. I don't care about xlr module because we just use an external recorder and just has better pre-amps.
About the bag, I would reccomend you the Tenba Cineluxe Roller 24 Bag. The 4d fits all rigged up, with 2x wireless monitors, couple of lenses and extra batteries.
What vintage glass are you pairing with the 4D? 😁
Bro I had to stop the video about 40 seconds in to tell you that I think you're doing great. You're so damn likable. You're going to be huge on RUclips if you want!
Yo!! Thank you so much!!
The problem of this camera was RED, they have the patents for raw compression… so you have to had the blessing to compress 4k raw or higher, DJI have for drones, so when RED find out about this camera, they force DJI to stop the production… RED is killing the camera industry.
They didn’t stop production they just took off the raw component
They could do what BMD does.
They should licence BRAW. F#@K Red!
The camera never stoped production, it just not record RAW right now.. I think they will add it as an additional paying option later or maybe to a external recorder.
No one else can do blackmagic. Blackmagic developed raw recording before red can apply patent
Can't believe the timing for the new announcement of the Flex cable shortly after watching this video. Would really like to see an update on how it might change things for you and your fears about the camera's future. Great video, thanks mate
Working on it as we speak!! Crazy timing! 🙌🏾
I think the biggest thing the next IT camera needs, is built in NDs on a small body. The problem with this camera is stabilization and lidar autofocus aren't really the areas that people badly need. Its the most unique and has incredible use cases. But a build in ND on a camera smaller and cheaper than the Fx6 is truly the next step.
It has built in NDs
Stumbled on your channel today. Man, your shots are absolutely gorgeous! Simply outstanding. As a primary solo operator myself, your information was so relevant and well presented, keep it up!
I had the opportunity to work this camera on a couple shoots. Really enjoy it and honestly think it's a taste of something I'd like to see more of in the future. That said, I do most of the purchasing recommendations for the commercial production department of local TV station, and I can't make the recommendation of buying into it on this generation. Which sucks because I'd really like to, but until we see DJI's level of support and investment into the system I can't make bets on it that are going to have to pay off 5 to 10 years from now. I really hope DJI sticks with this system because the main thing it needs to prove itself in the marketplace is time.
DJI have had many restrictions placed on their commercial activities since they announced the 4D; we're talking being banned from trade shows or blacklisted in several territories not to mention the tightening of drone regulations that have deterred if not effectively grounded many pilots. Certainly it is smaller (and presumably less profitable) consumer drones that suddenly seem to be the order of the day. This has to have negatively affected their projected turnover. So, even though I remain puzzled by some of the delays (it was months before I could get extra control handles, for example), I can't be too hard on them without knowing their challenges. Like you said, I bought the 4D for what the camera was and consider what I might be able to do with it in the future to be sugar on top. Chinese compatriots Tilta already weighed in with a few accessories, so maybe they and third parties from countries which don't regard DJI as persona non grata will increase their support.
I couldn’t agree more. Having invested heavily into this system, I can’t understand why they haven’t released at least the XLR extension. It’s crazy
That's interesting, when this first came out DJI had every known Content Creator and RUclipsr use it to get first dibs on it and most praise this camera. I thought it was a great camera and hope to buy it in the future. Then everyone stop talking about it as if it wasn't what it were cut out to be. But it's good to see that you got plenty of use out of it and it worked out for yourself
I think it's less that it's not as good as people though, and more that it's not new and shiny and people have moved on to just using it as a tool, as we know views make the money and the majority of people interested in this already know about it, meaning it doesn't make sense for everyone to keep making videos about it.
I use mine several times a week, and everyone that sees it for the first time is fascinated by it.
I love your updates on this camera. Thanks for posting this and the previous ones 👏🏾
Much love!!
Very glad that when I came across your video that DJI has been delivering with the Flex, audio adapter, 8k. Likely going to buy it as it does seem DJI will continue supporting it and coming out with updates and accessories.
I've been eyeballing this dang thing for a long time, but I've never quite pulled the trigger. Really appreciate hearing your thoughts!
2:00 that description is similarly spoken to the way people talk about apple. The final experience is more than the sum of its parts. I think the 4D could definitely keep up in the current market, but DJI probibly needs to sell more units. They should sell to Nikon so they can have a cinema camera.
Thank you for doing this one year review of the Ronan 4D Chris. I have been following the development of this camera platform (Or lack of development ?) since the Ronan 4D's initial release last year. There was a great deal of heavy blitz publicity courtesy of DJI and then suddenly "the big clam up." When a company suddenly makes a Left turn with a product, then you can be rest assured there's a big problem. From listening to you talk, it sounds like you may not know the reason why DJI has so suddenly gone silent with the Ronan 4D ? RED has an exclusive Patent of RAW digital Video recording technology. Many in our industry think RED should never have been granted such an exclusive and all encompassing patent for RAW recording technology as they have been given. DJI was approached by RED and told to remove the RAW recording capabilities of the Ronan 4D, or face legal proceedings on the basis of Patent infringement.🤔For many in the professional Cinema Industry world wide, the lack of a RAW recording capability is a deal breaker. Therefore, this product has been ruined by RED ! The camera is for all intensive purposes a boat anker ! As far as I am concerned, I would still consider purchasing the Ronan 4D even if DJI fails to follow through with the 8K version (Which is the one I have been waiting for to purchase), and even though the camera can no longer shoot in RAW format (If you didn't do any firmware updates, then you still have this capability if you own an originally first released 6K Ronan 4D !) DON'T DO ANY FIRMWARE UPDATES TO YOUR RONAN 4D FROM ORIGINAL RELEASED CAMERA FIRMWARE, OR YOU WILL HAVE THE RAW FEATURE REMOVED ! There is also the risc that if you do shoot a commercial production with a Ronan 4D in RAW, then RED could come after you legally. RED has been quite aggressive in pursuing any company legally which has tried to violate their stranglehold on in camera RAW recording. Nikon is fighting RED's patent claims on RAW in camera recording in court. There is one other company also fighting RED in court as well. The chances of DJI pulling out and cutting their losses versus taking a protracted wait and see stance to see how Nikon fairs in court is not small. I think you have a collector's item there. I hope to collect a Ronan 4D for myself in 8K, but barring that eventuality, I will snap up a 6K as soon as possible before there's none left ! The Ronan 4D is an amazing piece of technology. 👍
I see that DJI has a RAW license for sale that works with the prossd card. Did they hash out a deal for use?
Great review man, I’m a commercial dp and it’s nice to see a thoughtful review from a working commercial dp!
I wonder what you think of the new ronin 4d flex that just came out? You gonna switch to it ? Seems like they are giving ronin 4d continued support
JUST dropped a video on it! Got a chance to get early access!
It’s my favorite camera I’ve ever filmed with. I got 2 fully spec’d out. Clients love the wireless monitoring and so do the AC’s I work with. Plus it films easy on a steadicam as well.
You seem very genuine, and I enjoyed hearing about your experiences with this camera. Great Job Chris! (+1 sub)
Bro I color graded some of the sample footage from this cameras and the image quality is insane. IQ is so top notch. It’s sad they were never able to get raw for the camera.
Great content, and love some of the b-roll you included. Subbed!
I'm renting one of these next week and considering buying one... it would be great to get some official news from DJI on what's to come!
Very solid and informational video. I've been thinking about this camera but there hasn't been enough videos about processes.
Best Ronin 4D breakdown video on RUclips. Love your footage and thoughts! Thanks man 🤘
Thanks for some worthy info and insides man!
It's a good thing I didn't give up on this a The movie Civil War has confirmed that you can still make a banger of a movie with this Camera. Sometimes you gotta wait a year or two to really judge what a camera can really do...
Great update. I love the idea of this camera but just never pulled the trigger. I’m hoping we will hear more this year about the future of this system from DJI
Great video Chris. What do you find is your typical workflow for cropping into the footage. Because I think it only films in 17:9 and so I think that means you have to crop into the picture to adjust it for 16:9, am I correct? Also, is there a way to mount the monitor on the top of the handle instead of on one of the sides of the handle? Thanks!!
Nice review, man, thanks.
Chris, loving your content :) Can you tell me more about the Tilta Float. I. need something to save my poor old tied back haha. Considered the easyrig too but never used either. I have a Ronin RS3 Pro and BM 6K. Leaning towards the float and tilta duel handle
Great video. This camera got me new jobs on the spot of a shoot for a client as the camera caught their attention.
I love the ease of using it. Out of the transportation box and it's ready to use. I also use the Tilta Float, and it is so easy to use for a long shoot.
Crossing the fingers that DJI will continue with developing the Ronin 4D.
great video glad to see the flex has come out since
Best investment I ever made. very happy with it. and I'm fully built out with the added screens an transmitters. Waiting for the xlr
I've been told by at least 2 DJI contacts an "exciting update" is coming so I'm cautiously optimistic. For now, it's stressfull to have your fingers crossed for over a year. I think owners will be ok...right? Right?!?!
it's luminous! I mean the style and feel of this review. Incredible mix of intelligence, emotional grown-up positivity. "Good cameras are cheap. And cheap cameras are getting pretty good..." I know it's not from this review but it's a perfect example of attitude that makes it oh, so wonderful.
Great video! I'm new to this camera but I'm obsessed. My main gripe is that the audio module isn't available. I really really wish that was out.
Very good review. Thanks Chris.
Cheers so much for sharing all your experiences with it ❤ The only issue for me is it can't be underslung 😊
@ChrisFranklinJr - Thank you for your in depth video on the Ronin. 👍🏾 You put a lot of effort into it and covered many points and questions I was looking an answer to. I am curious about the tilta float you're using. On their website I see multiple options: the handheld, the dual handheld and the gimbal support system. Which one do you have and do you think I will, like you, protect my back with the Tilta Float Handheld Support System for $999? It seems like the two more expensive options aren't necessary and the funds rather go into the shoulder strap.
Cheers, Oli 🤙🏾
PS: I'd love to see more of your work you've shot with the ronin. Can you point me to some of it on your site or other online place?
I was suuuuper excited for this cam, but once I saw the bullshit RED was pulling with the RAW recording and the inability to fly any of my anamorphic lens adapter setups while still being able to use the Z-axis feature, it was a wrap.
I'm super excited about a V.2, a 4D Mark II or something. Because like you said, what it does do, it does REALLY well.
Fingers crossed!
Try a sachtler DR bag to carry the 4d fully rigged out and extra lenses!
Well predicted. Will you be creating a video on the Ronin 4D Flex?
Nevermind. I saw it but wanted to leave a comment for good engagement.
Haha much love!!
Hi Chris, do you have a video on how you got started? How did you get your first couple clients?
Excellent … I have one with no regrets and look forward to my future with it as is. But hopeful as you are about DJI’s promises.
i learned a valuable lesson with DJI cameras, not gimbles or drones, but the actual cinema cameras they make, i owned a osmo x5 pro ! so i know how they can be, they will always over promise a lot of cool features , they will always have a huge ecosystem to buy into (expensive), they will always have a a certain feature that is very revolutionary , but you'll learn slowly but surely other camera manufactures will eventually do the same thing but cheaper, the main thing they will do , they will abandon the product 2 or 3 years in!
(Not to mention RED" killed off any idea for them to ever use "RAW" on this due to trademarks)
Beautiful footage, Chris! As a colorist I've notice the footage from Ronin 4d got some weird chroma noise on green and blue. Other than this, Ronin 4d is solid camera even I wanna own one.
I LOVE the camera even without the raw ...the concept is ground breaking
Great video. We've been thinking about this camera. Not really looking to buy it but just thinking and wondering if it is worth it
You know when this camera came out and I started drooling over it. I wanted to invest into something that I could use it in multiple ways and having a built-in gimbal truly impressed me. Everybody was raving about it and they were all pre-production models. so I knew everybody was pre-ordering it, and it was gonna be a couple more months before I would know more about it. So I waited and really never heard much more about it. A lot of the stuff I thought came with it, does not. And even after a year like you have owned it. There’s still not too much talk about this camera. I am a professional photographer that wants to get into the video side. But I think I will pick up a Sony FX6because I am so invested into the Sony ecosystem already. But don’t get me wrong this DJI ronin 4D still is a unique bad ass camera. But I don’t think it will be for me. It might be overkill.
I picked one up used a few months back and I haven't used my old rig once since. At retail price I don't think I'd be in, but at 5300 it was absolutely worth it.
I am reluctant to buy anything DJI having experienced many of their products, starting with the original Ronin. There are little to no legacy product users under the DJI banner for two reasons - proprietary power systems and reliance on app support for critical systems. For half the price of the 4D I can buy a PCC6K Pro/Ronin RS3 combo and basically get the same system, only I get BRAW, EF lens mount with decades of available glass and the ability to go straight hand held with the 6K in some situations, utilizing the gyro stabilization in DaVinci Resolve, reducing the weight and bulk of my rig on fast-paced shoots. BMD should pay me for all the free advertising I give them, but I just love the platform and can't stop recommending it to anyone I meet.
Great video - really wish the price point wasn't so high - the features are targeting a users with a lower budget. In terms of case, I would look into a soft/hard case such as the Shape camera bag or Tenba bags. I used to use a hard plastic case but the soft cases with hard shells are much better.
Hi Chris! Thank you for this video! I follow your channel since I am on a similar journey as you professionally but in a different region of the world. I wanted to ask you if I were to invest and buy the RONIN 4D, are there things you wish you had known or thought about before buying it? And especially with the knowledge you now posses having it for about a year. Thanks 😊. Things maybe you haven’t mentioned in the video?
I would get in the FB group and look at common problems or solutions! This thing is HEAVY but very cool! I love having the ability to AF as well. I would look into a good carrying case as well! Transport is important as this thing is fragile!
@@ChrisFranklinJr Thanks for the advice Chris! Will keep it in mind. Good luck on the channel! You’re doing an amazing job.
Hi Chris, I just ha e a quick question for you about the lenses. Do you need lens support when using the vespid primes with the ronin 4d? Or can you goball day without lens support?
Thanks, man! Really appreciate it!
Well God, I hope so I just bought one! Even knowing this is a huge risk, if the build quality and spare parts are there I think you can make it work maybe?? Using it for the week I've owned it, it's a nice platform to work with. Certainly the nicest (smoothest) gimbal if used.
Hey Chris, love your content! 👍 Would you rather buy an FX3 + RS3 Pro or the dji 4D for real estate and corporate shootings?
If you're ONLY doing real estate the 4D will provide superior image and easier setup, but it's not as versatile as an FX3 if you ever want to do more! (Like interviews or take a photo)
Just used the Camera for the first time… I LOVE IT!
Could you try out the Xeen CF lenses by any chance? On paper, they should fit with the counter weight. Love the look of those. They are some gorgeous pieces of cine glass, really digging the look.
Greetings from Switzerland 🔥🤘🏼
is there an update video to this ? it has been one year since you uploaded this
Well, RAW is out, 8K is out, audio expansion is out :D
Hey I have the Blackmagic 6k and was looking at this dji should I upgrade?
This camera scared me from the start. Honestly mostly because of the company that put it out. To me it was a huge jump from drones to cinema cameras. I appreciate the update and glad you have recouped your investment on it.
SAME! One of those too good to be true moments almost! So I am very hopeful that they continue developing!
RAW IS NEVER COMING TO THIS CAMERA! the footage but depth and colors are still great . But RED made sure that camera would never get raw but people who don’t care about raw, this camera is more than Good
@@legitimatejonesraw is back after the last update.
great job man.
I have the same set up like you without the lens. 😢 but like you said its a great great camera. the only cons for me like you said its heavy and I also have the tilta like yours and its great. 😅 thanks keep it up
I am tired of searching people review Z axis in detail. Can you pleass make a separate video just covering the accuracy and efficency of Z axis. This ronin 4d is a game changer not mainly because of ergonomics or camera quality but Z Axis as it is the first Z Axis gimbal. I wanted to see how steady the z axis can make footage. Will it be as steady as a mounting the cam on conventional cars or tracks ?
This is the video I've been waiting for.
Thank you for this honest post. I was trying to decide between getting this or a C300 mkiii
C300 mkiii is overpriced now, if your work requires sdi then better c70. Or else just go with fx6 and commit to sony
Great video. How do you get around the Tilta Float blocking the bottom sensors? I was using this on a big event streamed to 3 million people last week, and engaging the Z axis still didn't make for a perfectly smooth look (you could see some bounce in the foreground using DJI 50mm on Super35 Crop). Was annoying!
As a commercial Drone video maker I can tell you that DJI never ever held their promisses. I will never buy anything expensive from DJI based on their promisses. DJI has great products but all of them feel somewhat unfinished.
Love this camera!!!!! I don't have one yet. I bought the 8k and so I am still just waiting.
Everything you were worried about ended come to fruition
I feel this camera was not meant to be the main camera it should be a tool to make certain other shots simpler like having a b-cam on a steadicam to speed up the process
It is a really good put together Camera. I have very few issues with it. Hopefully I can buy it this year.
This camera is way beyond where I am today, but it looks like so much fun. I hope I get to use one someday.
Now you’ve got the flex option AND the ability to buy ProRes RAW. The investment in this camera is no longer a risk
Great review and excellent advice!
why exactly it wouldn't survive?
So I'm wondering why my Ronin 4D won't record. I have the right card in the slot. Every time I push the record button a message comes up that says "Hi we make it very difficult for people to use this camera" Ok it might as well say that. It says activate dji ronin 4d using dji assistant 2, so i did that. what am i missing? has anybody else experienced this? every other camera on the planet out of the box you push record and by a miracle it works. very frustrating. is there another wire I need to attach to program it?
I would say that given what's going on with DJI as of late, the best bet is probably some modding from a dedicated group along the lines of Magic Lantern. But that's just my opinion.
Interchangable lens?
what will be the price ,if DJI sets for a shoot
I always wanted to get my hands on one but it's out of my budget. Maybe one day I'll pick one up on the used market :)
Drone pilot here... DJI makes great gear, but will not hold support, probably... as soon as they release a new model in the same product line, you are doomed... non compatibility to force you to upgrade, no new firmware upgrades or replacement parts produced, etc... I would be scared to spend so much on a DJI product in that range... and I am used to throw some thousands in their drones and FPV gear.
Put BRAW in this thing and it’s nearer to perfection for the solo production person!
This company should have been knocking down your door to take care of your needs considering that you have been one of their biggest supporters, I did rent it for 4 days and it’s great, but when it came time to pull the trigger and get a big boy camera I ended up going with the blackmagic12K that’s already gone thru it’s price reduction, the sales numbers of the DJI is not the best, and the only way it looks like they can keep it relevant is to drop the price at least 2,000.00 and that will still make it a 4,800 dollar camera, so to your other point, if they don’t have the sales numbers to justify working on upgrades specifically for only one of the cameras in their line are they going to do that, or just cut and run to something else, none the less it’s a beautiful camera, DJI needs to send you a check for all the promo you have done for them
Just ordered the 8K and Im sure DJI will surpass our expectations.
Your footage is beautiful!
Thank you so much!
What is your alternative camera style instead of ronin 4D?
Sony FX3 or BMPCC 6k!
Try the Shape Camera bag!!
with new accessories and firmware continuing to be announced, idk how you are saying it is falling into the abyss
I saw somewhere that DJI was sued by Red for patent infringement or technology in the 4D camera. That might explain why it is essentially a dead camera.
It was certainly compromised but "dead" may be a stretch. You may be referring to the ProRes RAW codec DJI initially promised but were forced to withdraw (with a small reduction in the purchase price). It was included on early examples (my 4D was purchased in March 2022) but the act of registering and activating the camera included a mandatory firmware update which removed it. RED are also suing Nikon, who they claim have breached their patent by including ProRes RAW (HQ 12-bit) on their Z9. Amazingly, RED's patent not only precludes other manufacturers from offering ProRes RAW but also any similar RAW compression in the future, plenty of people have Z9s in their hands already, myself included, so if RED wins its case, we'll all still have ProRes RAW and its hard for me to see what anyone could do about it if we stick to the current firmware.
Blame RED for the built in RAW. Actually, blame RED for all of the issues with RAW
doesn't the lidar make it easy to auto focus with the primes?
It enables autofocus but I rarely use it with the Cine lenses!
THis camera is so interesting and weird to me ha. I hope they keep updating it because the potential is huge!
It will not and it will not get support from DJI. The Ronin D is a Niche camera. It happened to me with the DJI X5 Osmo Pro. I paid well over 3K . It produced some pretty good footage but had too many quirks . Then all of a sudden there were no more updates and DJI stop supporting the camera. My advice, stick to Sony Alfa, Canon, Red, Blackmagic. Don't believe in DJI promises. "Promises Thomas's and can't make toast".
Hoping it drops in price lolz I'll cop One when it's reduced tremendously!
Well the sensor extension exists now sooo…you’re close?
Big Win!
I tried this camera in the store today! WICKED pice of tech
Image quality from this camera looks so good. Could you get the same quality from a Sony camera at a lower price ? Asking for a friend.
The sensor's not that special , you could get an fx30 with the stacked cmos or the multiple stacked ff cams ( a1 , a9 )
Its my dream. Even if it is what it is right now. Everything else is just gravy. But... I'm still eating hotdogs. Love my GH5, but its definitely showing its age!
I actually just put mine on eBay :-( All points agreed the thing it does good it's unmatched. I just think it's more than what I need at this point. This video will really impact my ability to sell lol
If this thing gets BRAW!!!