What Is The Purpose Of An External Camera Monitor? Choosing An On-Camera Screen
One of the first pieces of equipment you should include if you wish to is an external camera monitor. Let’s look at what to consider when purchasing an external screen for your camera and the top camera monitors for every price range.
There are various configurations available when purchasing a camera. Some cameras have a screen where you can access all the choices, compose your shot, and record when they are ready to shoot. Compact cameras and products like the Blackmagic Pocket typically have this setup.
Then there are cameras that include both an electronic viewfinder and a screen. A viewfinder is useful because it makes you feel closer to the action.
You can also stay clear of problems like brightness, flares, etc. with a viewfinder. It provides an additional point of contact, which is advantageous in run-and-gun scenarios and lone-gunman shootings.
The issue with many cameras is the poor quality of their viewfinder. They may be deficient in features, resolution, or both, which is why. Fortunately for us, subsequent camera generations have brought about some changes. Viewfinders on cameras, like the Sony A7s III, are of exceptional quality.
Some cameras don’t have a monitor or viewfinder, such the Sony FX3. They are little more than brains that can be modified to your preferences. If you want to be able to see what you photograph with these cameras, an external monitor or viewfinder is a need.
An external display, nevertheless, will also be helpful for cameras with an integrated screen and viewfinder because it makes the perfect companion for customised setups. It also has its own functions, which are typically more sophisticated than the tools on the camera.
What is the difference between a viewfinder and an external camera monitor?
You might choose between an external monitor and an external viewfinder depending on your shooting preferences and requirements.
An external monitor allows you freedom, yet an external viewfinder gives you solitude, another point of contact, and assistance in intense sunlight. That’s because you don’t have to keep an eye on it, making it ideal for tasks like self-shooting or gimbal work. Some shooting situations when you need your crew to check the frame can benefit from an external monitor.
If you decide to use an external display, you may buy a great monitor for a reasonable price. But if you require a viewfinder with comparable external camera monitor vs viewfinder functionality and a respectable quality, get out your money.
Your shooting style and the requirements of a certain task will determine which option you should use. Some traditional filmmakers, for instance, are unable to remove their eye from a viewfinder. Modern shooters, on the other hand, are more accustomed to reviewing their frame on an external display.
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Pros and Drawbacks of an External Camera Screen
Pros
Independence – You can visualise the shot without having to keep your eyes glued to the screen if you use an external monitor. A viewfinder, on the other hand, necessitates keeping an eye on it while composing the photo.
More tools – The average external monitor has more functions than your camera, which makes it simpler for us to get the perfect photo.
Simpler to see – Monitors frequently have larger screens than those on cameras, which improves the shooting experience, particularly during extended sessions.
Clients and crew can examine the external monitor for the camera – An external monitor is the ideal option when you need to display a shot to a client or ask your art director to add a background element.
In these times of social distance, they won’t have to approach the camera to verify the frame.
Recording – A few displays double as recorders, enabling you to capture your images in professional formats that many cameras are unable to handle.
Moving shots – For gimbal, Easyrig, and Steadycam shots, an external monitor is a need.
Cons
Bright situations – To see the screen in bright outside scenes, you will need an external monitor with sufficient brightness. The most costly monitors are typically the brightest. In most cases, a viewfinder is preferable in these circumstances.
Customers and staff can check – Sometimes you don’t need 20 different outside voices telling you what to do.
More attachments and a bigger rig are required if you attach an external monitor. These items include an arm, batteries, and rigging accessories.
Stands out – If you’re a street shooter seeking casual shots and prefer to blend in, a compact setup would be preferable.
Distractions – When looking through a viewfinder, the outside world is absent. You arrive on the site and give the shoot your complete attention. You must focus harder to avoid outside distractions when using an external monitor.
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Who Would Benefit Most From An External Camera Monitor Among Creators?
DoPs – A monitor is a requirement if you are working with a crew. The frame must be seen by the director, the client, and representatives from other departments. You’ll benefit from it in the majority of situations.
Cinematographers that use a Gimbal and Steadicam will require an extra monitor while filming with these devices. External displays will provide you more capabilities and a larger screen even if the camera’s screen is capable of handling the task.
Content Creators – Your options for a camera will expand if you use an external display. Since a tilt screen is not necessary, you are not constrained in your search for cameras with additional functions.
Operators of handheld devices – If you utilise an Easyrig, shoulder mount, etc., an external monitor is a great utility. It enables you to detach your body from the camera, enhancing your flexibility of movement and rig customization.
Solo studio photographers – If your setup is more or less constant, a monitor will be helpful. You won’t have to constantly reframe or change background elements while watching the camera screen.
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What To Consider When Purchasing an External Camera Monitor
Good resolution – You must ensure that your monitor has sufficient resolution to determine whether the frame, focus, etc., are accurate.
Brightness – The more brightness, the better. On a bright summer day, it will be nearly impossible to see anything outside if your monitor isn’t bright enough.
Tools for exposure – A good monitor should contain features for exposure including false colour, zebras, histograms, waveforms, and RGB parade.
Peaking – Your frame must be sharp. You can adjust it using good peaking tools till you feel confident shooting.
LUTs – In the era of flat profiles, importing your LUTs into the monitor is a requirement.
Long Battery Life – Everyone appreciates a device with a long battery life.
Weight – After hours of shooting, especially when using a gimbal or while shooting handheld, every gramme counts.
Connectivity – Depending on your workflow, you’ll require connectivity such as HDMI, SDI, etc. Make sure the connections on your preferred monitor are strong.
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Cheapest External Camera Monitors Available
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Key Features
- 1920 x 1200 Native Resolution
- 500 cd/m² Brightness
- 1000:1 Contrast Ratio
- 170° Viewing Angle
- Red Silicone Rubber Case
- Peaking / False Color / Histogram
- Exposure / Level Meter / Image Flip
- 1/4″-20 and VESA 75 Mounting Options
- Sun Hood Included
With an HDMI 1.4 input, Lilliput’s A7S 7″ Full HD Monitor with a red rubber cover is appropriate for UHD 4K filmmaking and photography. The LCD panel shows Full HD images with a 1000:1 contrast ratio and a 16:10 aspect ratio. You can output over HDMI to any additional device that is compatible by using the HDMI loop-through feature.
The A7S enables control over your shooting workflow in both the field and the studio if you have upgraded to the 4K workspace. The two programmable function keys can be utilized to create shortcuts to your preferred and often used monitor functions.
By screwing the provided shoe mount adaptor onto the 1/4″-20 holes at the bottom, you may mount the monitor to your camera. The A7S may be mounted to other devices using the VESA 75 hole on the rear.
- UHD 4K compatible
- Advanced functions such as timecode, columnar YRGB, pixel zoom, vectorscope, audio level meters, peaking, false color, histogram, exposure, check fields, color bars, pixel-to-pixel, and image flip
- Includes battery plates for Canon LP-E6 and Sony F-970
- Includes AC adapter
With this monitor, you really can’t go wrong, especially given the price. This Lilliput includes necessary tools like Peaking, False Color, Histogram, etc. for beginners searching for a respectable monitor. It also offers a respectable level of brightness and includes a sun hood for those sunny days.
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TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Key Features
- 1920 x 1080 Touchscreen Display
- 10-Bit Exterior Viewable Monitor
- 4K HDMI 2.0 Input/Output
- Supports ProRes RAW with Select Cameras
- 1000 cd/m² Brightness
- AtomHDR Mode with 10-Stop Dynamic Range
- 10-Bit 4:2:2 ProRes & DNxHR Encoding
- Records to 2.5″ Mini or Standard SSDs
- Supports Multiple Log Formats
- Single Sony L-Series Battery Slot
The Atomos Ninja V 5″ 4K HDMI Recording Monitor is a 5″ on-camera monitor/recorder that records to mini-SSDs that have been specially designed for this purpose and records and plays back up to DCI 4K.
Select cameras’ sensors can be recorded in Apple ProRes RAW up to DCI 4K60 on this monitor. A 10-bit screen with a brightness of 1000 cd/m2 and AtomHDR technology is included in the display features. Additionally, major log formats from Sony, ARRI, Canon, JVC, Panasonic, Nikon, RED, Sony, and Z CAM cameras are supported.
The Ninja V is powered by a single L-series battery and has an aluminum chassis to withstand the rigors of production. Numerous onscreen exposure analysis, framing, anamorphic de-squeeze, and focus assist tools are included among the additional features.
To further enhance the functionality of your Ninja V, purchase the AtomX SDI, AtomX SYNC, Connect 4K modules, and an SDI Raw licence key separately. Apple ProRes RAW over HDMI is supported by firmware update 10.76 for the Olympus OM-1 Micro Four Thirds camera.
This 5″ monitor/recorder quickly rose to fame. This monitor can be one of the best additions to your toolkit if you use a mirrorless or DSLR system to step up and improve the calibre of your work. The Atomos Ninja V will significantly increase the capability of your camera thanks to its HDMI ports, limitless permutations, and 10-Bit 4:2:2 ProRes recording.
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TODAY’S BEST DEALS
Key Features
- 7″ 1920 x 1080 Display
- SDI and HDMI Inputs
- Bright 2200 cd/m² LCD Panel
- HDR Preview
- Power via 2-Pin LEMO
- PageBuilder OS
- Milled Aluminum Unibody Housing
- Includes D-Tap Power Cable
Although it can be challenging to watch HD video signals outside, the SmallHD 703 UltraBright On-Camera Monitor solves this environmental challenge with its 2200 cd/m2 strong backlight. For focus pulling and image analysis on location and in the studio, the 7″ 1920 x 1080 LCD offers a sharp image.
The high-brightness panel’s ability to preview HDR video on the monitor is another benefit. HDR preview increases the dynamic range of the display to show a wider variety of brightness in the image.
The monitor’s unibody aluminum casing serves as a cooling for the inside circuitry while keeping it light and strong. A layer of optically-bonded Gorilla Glass, renowned for its transparency and durability, covers the LCD itself as protection. It prevents blacks from being washed out and lessens the harshness of reflections thanks to the optical bonding technique.
The SDI and HDMI I/O are located on either side of the monitor. The ability to display two SDI signals side by side is made possible by dual SDI ports.
Alternatively, the secondary port can be designated as an output to transmit an SDI signal upstream to a different monitor, switcher, or wireless accessory. The PageBuilder OS, which offers sophisticated capabilities with a simple and effective graphical user interface, makes all of the monitor’s features accessible.
This SmallHD will meet all of your needs if you’re seeking for a high-quality monitor. Excellent picture quality, SDI connectors, brightness to record in any environment, two inputs simultaneously… Even though it is heavier than other models, it is still portable enough to be used alone.
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About the author: Trent (IMDB | Youtube) has spent 10+ years working on an assortment of film and television projects. He writes about his experiences to help (and amuse) others. If he’s not working, he’s either traveling, reading or writing about travel/film, or planning travel/film projects.
