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DPReview TV: Syrp Genie One motion control and pan head review

18 Jul

The Syrp Genie One is a motion control system for creating automated time-lapse sequences or live-action video. In fact, it could even turn your existing slider into a programable motion control rig.

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Can Chris pass as a Kiwi from New Zealand?
Introduction
User interface
Time-lapse examples
Design and functions
Time-lapse functions
Live action function
Compared to the competition
One last time-lapse!

New to time-lapse? Watch our Introduction to time-lapse photography episode!

Watch our introduction to time-lapse photography video

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Camera accessory manufacturer Syrp acquired by Vitec Imaging Solutions

24 Jan

New Zealand-based camera gear company Syrp, which was founded in 2012 by two videographers, has been acquired by Vitec Imaging Solutions. The acquisition took place on January 23, according to Vitec, which holds an extensive brand portfolio that includes Manfrotto, JOBY, Gitzo, and more.

Syrp’s product lineup includes motion control and slider hardware for photographers and filmmakers, as well as related software for controlling the hardware. These products will become part of Vitec’s own portfolio under the acquisition, which will involve Syrp being integrated with Vitec Imaging Solutions.

As part of this integration, Vitec plans to transform Syrp’s New Zealand facility into its new Research & Development ‘center of excellence’ for motion control and mechatronic products. The Syrp brand will remain, and its products will be made available globally via Vitec’s global distribution network.

Vitec acquires Syrp, leader in sliders and motion technology, expanding innovation capabilities for future product development.

Vitec Imaging Solutions, a Division of The Vitec Group plc (“Vitec”), a globalprovider of products and solutions to the Broadcast and Photography markets, is pleased to announce that on 23 January 2019 it acquired Syrp Limited (“Syrp”),a New Zealand based slider and motion control company.

Syrp designs and develops motorised camera sliders as well as motion control hardware and software that enables independent content creators to remotely control their camera equipment, allowing for the capture and smooth tracking of shots for video, time-lapse and hyper-lapse imagery.

The acquisition of Syrp adds electronics and software features that control cameras to Vitec’s current product portfolio. Syrp will be integrated into Vitec’sImaging Solutions Division, which will commercialise the brand’s innovativeproduct offering to content creators worldwide. This will facilitate easy access to Syrp sliders and motion controls, as the perfect complements to Manfrotto andGitzo’s tripods and heads.

Founded in 2012 by two skilled videographers, Syrp has been dedicated to empowering independent filmmakers and photographers to explore new creative possibilities in dynamic photography and filmmaking. This commitment isperfectly aligned with Vitec’s purpose to provide innovative solutions for capturing and sharing exceptional content.

Syrp’s brand and products will benefit from Vitec Imaging Solutions globaldistribution network, with its highly efficient customer service, logistics, and integrated shipping capabilities. The brand will also receive the added support ofVitec’s integrated marketing campaigns and social media presence.

With the acquisition of Syrp, Vitec will expand its ability to provide customers with innovative solutions for the creation of exceptional time-lapses and hyper-lapses thus matching the growing demand for engaging digital and social media dynamic content.

Going forward, Syrp’s New Zealand facility will become Vitec’s R&D center of excellence for mechatronic and motion control products.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Syrp launches Magic Carpet Pro slider with ‘infinitely extendable’ track

17 Mar

Filmmakers who need really long sliders are the target of the new Magic Carpet Pro, the latest in a series of sliders announced by accessories manufacturer Syrp. The key selling point of the Magic Carpet Pro is its ‘limiteless’ range, a feature made possible by a new track lever design that allow users to lengthen their slide by simply clicking additional lengths of track into place—no tools required.

But that’s not all the Magic Carpet Pro can do.

A newly designed flywheel sits inside the camera carriage, eliminating the need for belts and pulleys while creating smooth motion during manually controlled camera movements. And as with all of Syrp’s other slider systems, automated motion control can be added via a Genie system; in fact, the Genie ll is able to slot directly into the new quick release holder in the carriage itself.

The tracks are made from aluminum, and are expected to manage a payload of up to 70lbs when no extension tracks are in use, and up to 50lb when they are. Here’s a quick video intro from Syrp itself:

The Syrp Magic Carpet Pro can be pre-ordered now for May/June delivery, with kit prices ranging from $ 990 to $ 1470. Three kits will be available, including one with a two foot ‘Short Track’, one with a ‘Medium Track’ of three feet, and a third that includes both the short and the medium tracks to create a combined five foot slider.

For more information, visit the Syrp website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Syrp introduces Super Dark 5-10 stop variable ND filter

13 Dec

Accessories brand Syrp has announced a new variable neutral density filter that will appeal to those who like to create very long exposures. The Syrp Super Dark Variable ND Filter operates between five and ten stops (ND32 to ND1024) and provides stop-markings on the rings so photographers can measure exactly how much light they are cutting out.

The company says it has reduced the range of densities the filters create to avoid the ‘X’ interference effect that is common with one to ten-stop filters. The filter can only be rotated within ‘safe’ limits, and Syrp has used ‘hard stops’ to prevent the forward ring being turned too far.

The filters come in 67mm and 82mm sizes, and each is packed with a pair of step-up rings to allow them to fit to smaller lenses. The forward ring of each is also threaded so further screw-in filters can be stacked in front of them, and the bezel is moulded to allow a regular lens cap to be fitted.

The filters cost $ 169 for the 67mm version and $ 209 for the 82mm version, and both come with a protective leather zip-up holder. For more information see the Syrp website.

Manufacturer information

Introducing the New Super Dark Variable ND Filter!

With 5-10 stops of adjustable exposure control, the Syrp Super Dark Variable ND Filter is a must-have tool for any photographer’s gear bag and is available for pre-order from today, with a planned shipping date of the 15th of December. The Super Dark is available in two sizes and includes hard stops at the minimum and maximum ends for reducing X-pattern.

Long exposures are fundamental to landscape photography as they capture the effect of time passing, giving your images an expressive and often surreal look. They also add a creative element to your time lapses making them more fluid and giving them a dreamy effect. Silky smooth waterfalls or glassy lakes can be captured in full day light with just a simple twist of the filter to allow you to slow your shutter speed and record long exposures.

Both the Small and Large Filter Kits come with a genuine leather carry case to house the filter and ensure it stays protected from dust and scratches. Our Super Dark Variable ND Filter provides exposure reduction of 5 (ND32) to 10 (ND1024) stops using a smooth, adjustable front ring. The filter also has a front thread so you can easily stack filters if needed and will fit your regular lens cap.

Included in each Filter Kit are two step up rings for maximum compatibility with the range of lenses in your kit. The Large Kit (82mm) has 77-82mm and 72-82mm rings and the Small Kit has 58-67mm and 52-67mm rings. An invaluable tool for time-lapse, the Super Dark creates a more natural and fluid transition between frames, reducing the appearance of moving elements’ flickering and stuttering.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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The Slingshot by Syrp wants to bring a new look to your time-lapses

15 Sep

Syrp is a New Zealand-based company that has introduced a product for shooting unique time-lapses called the ‘Slingshot.’ It’s a cable based dolly system that utilizes things like trees, rocks and other natural (or man made) anchor points to support two cables that the dolly runs on.

After finding your anchor points and running the cables between the two points, the system is tightened using a winch – no tools required. The cable system can be transported to and from location in a backpack included in the kit.

The Slingshot can be configured with Syrp’s Genie to add motorized control, and additional accessories make it possible to create multi-axis time-lapses over distances up to 300ft. Three different kits are offered, starting at $ 989 without a Genie and up to $ 3,102 including several accessories for added motion control.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Syrp Genie Robotic Tripod Head Review

16 May

If you’re in the market for an ultra portable robotic tripod head that pans and tilts and is super easy to setup, you’ll be wanting to take a look at the Syrp Genie. The guys at Syrp have done their Kickstarter backers proud with a solid product that looks as good as it performs.

While it can’t pan and tilt at the same time, the Genie has a little trick up its sleeve to add an extra layer of motion control to its arsenal.

When you want to put the Genie on to a slider you won’t need any extra motors or cables to get things moving. The Genie comes complete with the linear accessory which utilizes a thin yet strong rope which you attach to either end of your slider. The motor inside the Genie will then pull the unit along the slider to add production value to your video recordings or time-lapse footage. You could even put the genie on a skate board or cart and then attach the ropes to trees or fences while it pulls itself through your scene.

While this might not be the most advanced method of motion control, you’ve got to love the sheer simplicity of the Genie, and with its built-in battery it really takes up very little space in your camera bag. If you’re off on a long haul flight and don’t relish the idea of packing lots of complex toys, you’ll appreciate the compact form of this device.

Syrp Genie Review - Gavin Hardcastle

Build Quality

I was really impressed with the build quality of the Genie and its accessories. The packaging was like something you’d expect from Apple and everything has a solid, ruggedness about it that feels reassuring. I had some problems with the battery on the first unit that I received so Syrp promptly replaced it and the second unit had no problems with the battery lasting as advertised.

Ease of Use

The Genie is about as easy as it gets. Time-lapse photographers will love the presets and how the time calculations are adjusted based on your input. The interface is really easy to navigate and pretty intuitive. I only had to refer to the manual on a couple of occasions. Setting up a panning shot is pretty easy but I found the tilt shots more of a challenge to get things lined up with the horizon and also struggled a little with the ball head that Syrp kindly included. Once you’ve done it a few times it gets easier.

Syrp Genie Motion Control Review - Gavin Hardcastle

Accessories

My first impression of the ball tripod head that Syrp included was that it might not be up to the job. After putting it to some serious stress tests it turned out to be a very sturdy little head that can handle a lot of weight and some hefty abuse.

Syrp Genie Review Ball Head

The infra red transmitter stalk is a really cool addition for time lapse photographers who don’t fit into the Canon/Nikon mold and can’t connect up to the Genie with a cable. The IR transmitter plugs into the Genie and then sticks out of the side like one of those gooseneck desk microphones. The idea is that you point it at the IR receiver on your camera and it triggers the camera for time lapse shoots. I shoot with a Sony A7R so this was essential for me. I just wish the IR transmitter was a couple of inches longer so that I didn’t have to strap it to my lens with an elastic band. Anyway, it works and is much easier than fiddling about with a long IR cable.

The rope that you use for linear motion on sliders is really good quality and you can order different lengths to suite your needs.

Tech Support

I found the tech support from Syrp to be pretty quick and effective. When I had any big problems they jumped on it quickly and were patient when I was just being thick and didn’t get how things worked. I get the impression that even if I wasn’t a writer for dPS, I’d still get taken care of well.

Is it Worth the Price?

This is a tricky one and it really depends on your needs. Currently priced at $ 890 USD, the Genie cannot pan and tilt at the same time. It can only pan, tilt or slide. There are other robotic ‘motion control’ heads out there that offer more functionality for around the same price, but it’s kind of unfair to compare the Genie to more advanced units because they don’t have the built in battery and they require motor accessories in order to slide. With that in mind your decision to buy the Genie might come down to its two greatest features – simplicity and portability.

The Results

Here’s some quick and rough test footage that I shot with the Genie straight out of the box. Please watch at 1080p.

I am a confessed pixel peeping perfectionist. A snob of the worst kind when it comes to image quality and the finished product of a shoot.

My main use of the Genie was for shooting time-lapse sequences and I have to say that the results I got were not as smooth as I’ve had with other devices on the market. I don’t know if this can be fixed with a firmware update or if it’s down to a mechanical limitation of the Genie design. That being said, whether or not my obsessive ‘buttery’ motion requirements would make much of a difference once a finished video is butchered by the compression ogre from Vimeo or YouTube remains to be seen.

I suspect that for most time-lapse and video shooters, the motion of the Genie will be more than sufficient. I’m just a picky bugger.

Things I Love

Portability
Ease of use
The Preview Function (others could learn from this)
Build quality
Built in battery

Things I Don’t Love

Can’t pan and tilt at the same time
Not the smoothest results for time-lapse
The little bit of ‘play’ that makes the first few frames of your time lapse completely static. You can see this in the second clip of my test footage video above.

All in all, the Genie is a really cool product that I feel is ideal for time lapse beginners and budding cinematographers. When you factor in the portability and the ease of use, the Genie comes in at a very fair price point with excellent build quality. Time-lapse shooters that are looking for something more advanced will have to spend a little more to move up to the next level of production value. I give the Syrp Genie 4 out of 5 stars.