Element 14 has published a new project to their “Presents” YouTube channel providing details on how you can build your very own DIY DSLR motorised camera zoom system to remove the need to forever adjust and correct the zoom and framing on your DSLR camera when capturing video. Check out the video below to learn more about the project and how you can build your very own.
“Clems Video production is a one-man-show. He has to switch back and forth between being the subject and the cameraman. Constantly moving around the workshop for every single little correction is very tedious. Why not upgrade any common DSLR with a remotely controlled Zoom/Focus? Commercially available motorized zooms and focus pulling devices are very expensive, so Clem develops his own cheap and flexible solution and finds out if is it worth building this sort of camera equipment yourself.”
Why Build a DIY Motorized Zoom System?
Building a DIY motorized zoom system for your DSLR camera can be a game-changer, especially for solo content creators, vloggers, and independent filmmakers. The ability to control zoom and focus remotely can significantly enhance the quality of your videos by ensuring consistent framing and focus without the need for constant manual adjustments. This is particularly useful in scenarios where the camera is positioned in hard-to-reach places or when you need to maintain a specific shot composition while moving around.
Moreover, commercial motorized zoom systems can be prohibitively expensive, often costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars. By building your own system, you not only save money but also gain the flexibility to customize the setup according to your specific needs. For instance, you can choose the type of motor, the control interface, and even integrate additional features like focus pulling or automated panning.
Components and Steps Involved
To build your own motorized zoom system, you’ll need a few key components: a motor (preferably a stepper motor for precise control), a motor driver, a microcontroller (such as an Arduino), and a power supply. Additionally, you’ll need some mechanical parts to connect the motor to the zoom ring of your DSLR lens, such as gears or a belt system.
1. Motor Selection: Choose a stepper motor that provides enough torque to turn the zoom ring of your lens. Stepper motors are ideal because they offer precise control over movement, which is crucial for smooth zooming.
2. Motor Driver: The motor driver is responsible for controlling the motor based on signals from the microcontroller. Ensure that the driver is compatible with your chosen motor and can handle the required current.
3. Microcontroller: An Arduino or similar microcontroller will serve as the brain of your system. It will send signals to the motor driver to control the motor’s movement. You can program the microcontroller to respond to various inputs, such as buttons or a joystick, to control the zoom.
4. Power Supply: Ensure that you have a stable power supply that can provide sufficient current for both the motor and the microcontroller.
5. Mechanical Connection: Use gears, pulleys, or a belt system to connect the motor to the zoom ring of your lens. This may require some custom fabrication or 3D printing to ensure a secure and precise fit.
6. Programming: Write a program for the microcontroller to control the motor based on your input method. This could be as simple as moving the motor a set number of steps when a button is pressed or as complex as integrating with a wireless remote control.
For more projects jump over to the Element14 Presents YouTube channel. “Visit the element14 Community for more great activities and free hardware”
Source : Adafruit : Element 14
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