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The Pictar Pro gives your smartphone physical dials, add-on viewfinder

05 Oct

Miggo has launched the latest in its line of camera grips for smartphones with the Pictar Pro, a model that offers users enhanced handling and access to hidden features of their phones, as well as an optional viewfinder for shooting in bright conditions. The company promises that this next generation Pictar makes it easier to control the camera functions of your iOS or Android phone through new larger dials and buttons, as well as a rocker switch that can control the camera’s zoom.

The Pictar Pro clamps around the smartphone and connects to it via high frequency sound waves, leaving Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and physical ports free for other functions. The device recognizes the type and model of phone automatically by communicating with the Pictar App that users need to install. The Pictar Pro also comes with an optional built-in power supply that can roughly double the time the phone operates between charges.

The new larger press/turn dials control the app in the camera and give access to features many native camera apps don’t include. Users can control the shutter speed of their phone’s camera, as well as dial in exposure compensation, use focus and exposure lock, access different flash modes and work in ISO or Shutter priority exposure modes.

The highlight for me though is the optional viewfinder that plugs into the Pictar Pro to let the app know it is in use. When the app detects the collapsible viewfinder the phone’s display screen shrinks to the size of the viewfinder so that the whole screen can be seen through the eye piece. This allows better stability for longer exposures as well as giving users a clearer view of what they are shooting in bright conditions. It makes the phone feel much more like a ‘real’ camera.

The free Pictar App gives users a choice of RAW, TIF and JPEG file formats, advanced white balance settings, a histogram display and options for aspect ratios. A cold shoe lets accessories, such as video lights, be mounted on the top of the grip, and the base is fitted with a standard tripod thread.

Kickstarter backers will be able to get the Pictar Pro for between $ 129 and $ 189. The estimated price once the campaign finishes is $ 250 for a kit including the viewfinder and accessories.

For more information see the Miggo website, or the Pictar Pro Kickstarter campaign page.

Miggo Returns to Kickstarter and Goes Pro with the New Pictar Pro, the World’s Most Advanced Camera Grip for iPhones and Androids

Pictar Pro unlocks possibilities on the smartphone camera to take control and get the best quality video and photography

Offers 12 incredible camera features to create a highly capable DSLR camera and mobile studio with advanced video features

Miggo is further enhancing the mobile photography and video experience with the introduction of Pictar Pro exclusively on Kickstarter the same community-driven platform that helped launch its original breakthrough smartphone camera grip concept worldwide a year and a half ago. Pictar Pro unlocks smartphone possibilities (for both iPhones and Androids) to enjoy remarkable camera control and creativity not possible with the smartphone camera by itself. Starting August 28, 2018, anyone can back the development of Pictar Pro on Kickstarter at http://crwd.ly/pictar_pro1

Smartphone cameras’ potential aren’t fully realized. Despite the fact that Apple and Android smartphone makers invest tens of millions of dollars yearly in optical lens development, most users don’t take full advantage of their smartphone’s photography tools. And controlling the smartphone’s camera is done through menus, which isn’t very convenient.

“Photography is about capturing the moment, not digging around menus to figure out the best way to capture the moment,” said Guy Sprukt of Miggo. “Pictar Pro helps take control of your photography along with the best-quality video not possible with the smartphone camera alone.”

Feels like a Real Camera and Shoots like a Real Camera

Pictar Pro takes all the exciting features that made Pictar One a world-class success, and upgrades them further, offering unmatched control over the phone’s camera with four improved external camera control buttons, a ‘shark-skin’ ergonomic grip, Qi wireless charging to keep the smartphone charged for continuous shooting, a unique viewfinder for shooting on bright days, advanced video capabilities and more. And the new Pro version is designed to be more like a Leica camera with a classic solid satin-finish brass body used in traditional cameras to offer a more substantial feel.

The heart of the system and the engine that drives Pictar Pro is Pictar App, a powerful advanced photo application for iPhones and Androids with pro-level features and user-friendly interface – which allows unmatched control over a variety of photo options.

A lot of intelligence is built inside, from recognizing which device is being used (i.e.: iPhone vs Samsung Galaxy, vs Sony) to intelligently adjusting the camera for macro shots to uniquely connecting the viewfinder that automatically shrinks the image down on the phone to the size of the viewfinder via proprietary technology. And the Pictar Pro is simple as plug and play. Simply slide the phone in and start using it with the Pictar App. No need to attach anything or rely on connecting to Bluetooth nor the lightening port.

Turn your smartphone into a powerful video camera. Whether recording a family event or vlogging on YouTube, Pictar Pro offers advanced video capabilities and allows for professional accessories to be connected such as a tripod, microphone, LED lighting and external lenses.

12 Incredible Camera features not available with smartphones by itself – but only with Pictar Pro.

These include:

  • New classic satin-finish brass body with sturdy camera grip that provides the feeling of a real camera and allows for one-handed shooting.
  • Four external larger control wheels and buttons for easy one hand and one-touch use with better control over the camera’s features for sharper pictures.
  • Exposure compensation wheel for superior control over the exposure and darkness or brightness of the image.
  • Multi-state Shutter Release button offers two modes: a half-press to lock the focus and exposure, and a full click to shoot.
  • Rocker Zoom Switch for ease of use and continuous smooth motion of the zoom, even in video shooting. And depress it to change from front-to-back camera for fun selfies.
  • Smart Wheel – Rotate the wheel left and right to switch between 9 different shooting modes: Auto, Shutter Priority, ISO Priority, Manual, Macro, Video, Selfie, Sport and Filters
  • Press the wheel to switch between the different flash modes. The button can be easily programmed to change its function via the application.
  • Viewfinder, which easily connects to see the smartphone’s screen even on a very bright day.
  • Qi wireless charging via an internal battery to keep smartphone going to never miss a great shot.
  • Shutter speed control for “freezing” or blurring the image.
  • ISO control for “cleaner” pictures.
  • Larger zoom range over iPhone to get even closer to the object.
  • Advanced image formats: jpeg / tiff / raw for larger and more detailed files.
  • Multi-featured camera app (free) for better performance and many more options.
  • Tripod attachment great for night photography, long exposures and family selfies.
  • “Cold shoe” connector designed for a microphone or lighting accessories for adding light to any dark scene. Designated side-window allows cord connection
  • Breakthrough wireless connectivity to connect to Pictar Pro to the Pictar App, transferring commands from the various buttons using patented technology of high frequency sound waves.

Pictar Pro fits all sizes of iPhones (from 6 to X, including all Plus models), and a wide range of selected Android and is future proofed for new iPhone models that will be launched soon. Included are a hand strap and neck strap made from a stylish parachute cord with real leather elements, and a premium quality fabric pouch for keeping the Pro when not in use.

Rewards
Miggo has four successful crowdfunding campaigns under its belt with all products delivered to its backers. Miggo chose to bring back Pictar Pro to its loyal Kickstarter community and will be providing special offers including an early-bird price starting at $ 119 (limited availability). Rewards will be range from $ 129 to $ 189. Pictar Pro is estimated to retail for $ 245, which includes the Pictar Pro unit, carrying case, neck strap, wrist strap, viewfinder, charging cable, and Pictar app. It is now available for pre-order on http://crwd.ly/pictar_pro1. Delivery estimates of the Pictar Pro are for the beginning of 2019.

About Miggo
Miggo was established five years ago to bring photography lovers innovative and fun products that make the photography experience more enjoyable and successful. With decades of experience in product development in the field of photography, Miggo develops and markets breakthrough products for smartphones, DSLR cameras, drones and action cameras. The company headquarters are located in Israel and its development center is located in the UK.
Website: myMiggo.com

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The Miggö Pictar is a pricey camera grip for iPhone photographers

26 Jun

Miggö Pictar
From $ 99 | www.miggo.com

Many photographers would probably agree that the image quality of smartphone cameras has improved rapidly over the past few years and in many cases now rivals the output from some conventional digital compact cameras. However, even if the image quality of the smartphone camera in your pocket is all you need, there is still one area in which conventional cameras offer undeniable advantages over smartphones: ergonomics.

Multi-touch smartphone displays are great for general use and navigation of mobile devices, but many photographers prefer physical buttons and dials for setting camera shooting parameters over virtual controls on a screen.

Enter the Miggö Pictar camera grip. It attaches to your iPhone and provides a number of customizable physical controls, plus a tripod mount and a cold shoe connector. The Pictar is available in two versions. One is compatible with the iPhones models 4s, 5, 5s, 6, 6s, SE and 7 and will set you back $ 99. The other fits the larger iPhone Plus models, including the latest iPhone 7 Plus flagship, and is $ 10 more expensive.

I’ve been using the Pictar grip with an iPhone 7 Plus for a few days. Here are my impressions.

Features, ergonomics and build quality

Attaching the Pictar to your phone is straightforward process. You ‘click’ the phone in place where it is safely held thanks to a spring-loaded mechanism. Once attached to the phone and connected to the Pictar app the grip offers most essential controls that you would expect on a conventional camera.

The Pictar’s chunky rubberized grip allows for comfortable and secure holding.

The shutter button supports half-press for focusing and locking exposure and two dials at the back of the grip are by default configured for dialing in exposure and changing the shooting mode. A front dial acts as a zoom ring, pressing it switches to the front camera. This configuration makes sense but if you don’t like how things are set up by default, the Pictar app allows for an impressive amount of customization. You can have a different setup for each shooting mode and even create custom profiles.

The Pictar offers a range of controls and features you would normally find on a digital compact or interchangeable lens camera.

Thanks to its rubberized grip the Pictar is comfortable to hold, even with only one hand, and most of the controls can be easily reached. Only the front dial is in a slightly inconvenient place which means you have to loosen your grip slightly when using it. That’s not much of a problem when you hold the phone and grip with both hands but makes for slightly unstable shooting in one-handed use. On my test unit the front dial is also a little stiff, making it difficult to dial in the desired zoom factor with precision.

The grip’s open design allows for attachment of most add-on lenses that don’t need a phone case but you cannot charge your iPhone while the grip is in place. A cold-shoe mount lets you use lights or microphones with your phone and at the bottom of the grip you’ll find a standard tripod mount.

Two dials on the back allow for quick adjustment of shooting mode and parameters.

Two major drawbacks of the Pictar are build quality and power supply. It’s made of quite cheap-looking plastic which stands in stark contrast to the iPhone’s premium materials. The buttons feel quite flimsy as well and the spring mechanism makes creaking noises when the iPhone is being attached. I have had no particular quality issues during my relatively short test but it remains to be seen how the Pictar will stand up to longer travels or intense daily use over time.

Power is supplied by a 1/2AA battery which Miggö says should last between 4 and 6 months. I had no issues with battery life during my testing but those batteries aren’t cheap and, depending on where you are, not always easily available. In this day and age even the cheapest devices seem to be USB-rechargable, and it’s a shame that the Pictar doesn’t offer this feature.

Pictar App

The Pictar camera app displays all essential shooting information. A histogram, virtual level and framing grid can be activated in the settings.

To use the grip you have to download and install the dedicated Pictar app first. Instead of Bluetooth it communicates with the phone via ‘ultrasonic OS’. Essentially, the grip sends out ultrasonic frequencies that are picked up by the iPhone’s microphones with a unique frequency for each function. According to the Pictar makers, this drains less battery on both devices. Everything worked well during our test and all of the grip’s physical controls were responsive and reliable at all times.

The app’s user interface is simple and well-designed. It shows all important camera settings and gives you the option to display a grid, histogram and virtual horizon. You can set focus and exposure points on the display and in some modes one shooting parameter is adjusted on a virtual slider but otherwise most settings are modified via the grip’s physical dials and buttons.

The customization options for the physical controls are almost endless.

The mode dial lets you switch between Auto, Manual and Shutter Speed and ISO priority modes. There’s also a Macro mode and a Sports modes, which biases toward using higher ISOs for faster shutter speeds, and a filter mode which allows for some live image manipulation. A video mode is included as well, but manual control is limited to exposure compensation.

Unfortunately the Pictar app does not offer the option to shoot images in Raw format, and there is no button to switch between the iPhone 7 Plus dual-camera lenses but you can assign that function to the front button if you want to. Unlike on a conventional camera a press of the shutter doesn’t take you back to the capture screen from review mode or when using another app.

Conclusion

In my experience there are two types of mobile photographers: purists who like mobile photography for its inconspicuousness and want to keep their device as compact and portable as possible, and those who like to use any gadget they can get their hands on to enhance their smartphone’s camera capabilities or feature set.

If you belong to the latter group and also like to have manual control over your shooting parameters the Pictar grip could definitely be for you. The dials and buttons offer quicker adjustment than most on-screen controls and the tripod and cold-shoe mounts will be appreciated by most more serious photographers.

On the downside, the Pictar does feel a little cheap for a $ 100 device. We’d also prefer USB-recharging to relatively obscure 1/2AA batteries. Raw support in the camera app would have been nice, too, especially when considering the photographically minded target users. That said, quite a few buyers will probably get the Pictar for its attractive retro-look alone.

What we like:

  • Good ergonomics and comfortable grip
  • Easy to use
  • Customizable configuration
  • Well-designed app

What we don’t like:

  • Cheap plastic material
  • Requires fairly obscure 1/2AA battery
  • Slightly stiff front dial makes precise zooming difficult
  • No Raw support in camera app

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Miggo wants to ‘DSLR your iPhone’ with the Pictar grip

20 Apr

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Accessory manufacturer miggo has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund a new iPhone grip that it says brings DSLR-style controls to many current iPhone models. The Pictar grip uses conventional buttons, wheels and dials to deliver a traditional camera experience that makes the photo feature of the phone easier to navigate, and the company claims the app that complements the grip allows greater camera control than the standard iPhone interface.

While most devices that connect wirelessly with smartphones do so using potentially battery-draining Bluetooth, the Pictar grip communicates with an iPhone app using high frequency sound that humans can’t hear but which the phone’s microphone can. It’s definitely a unique approach, and it’s not clear whether it will drive your dog crazy.

Turning the wheels and dials creates unique tones that instruct the app what it is the user wants to do. All of the controls can be customized to suit the user, but by default one of the top plate dials is set to deliver exposure compensation while the finger wheel on the front of the camera is used as a zoom or, when pressed, to switch from front to rear cameras – for selfies.

The Pictar grip is adjustable which allows it to work with a range of past, current (excluding the larger 6s Plus) and future models, and as there is no physical communications plug or socket the company says its device is not reliant on Apple maintaining its current form factor or connections.

The Pictar grip provides a cold shoe for microphones and lighting, as well as a tripod socket on its base. It is powered by a CR ½ AA battery which miggo says will last between six and eight months. The miggo Pictar will cost $ 90 and, if the campaign is successful, will come to market in December.

For more information see the miggo website, and the Pictar Kickstarter campaign page.

Press release:

miggo Transcends the Limitations of Mobile Photography with the Launch of Pictar

Inspired by classic camera design, Pictar unleashes the true photographic power of iPhones

New York – miggo, which first made its worldwide debut with the innovative Strap & Wrap and Grip & Wrap protective carrying solutions for digital cameras, today unveiled its most revolutionary offering yet – Pictar. High-tech and cutting edge, Pictar is an ergonomically advanced Camera-Grip for the iPhone that brings the familiar controls of a DSLR right to users’ fingertips.

Key features of Pictar include:
– Five user programmable wheels/buttons for full user control.
– Ergonomic grip for one handed use.
– Revolutionary communication between hardware and App via ultrasonic sounds.
– Compatibility with most iPhone models (4-6s and planned support for future models).
– Control over iPhone camera features not possible in the native App.

While the digital camera incorporated in each new generation of the iPhone has improved dramatically, what has stayed the same since its introduction is the way consumers hold the device and navigate its features and settings. With that in mind, when it comes to taking a photo, it’s not very ergonomic and simply does not compare to the traditional experience offered by that of a dedicated DSLR. Advanced shooters welcome a DSLR’s physical controls which put frequently used settings right at their fingertips – something Pictar was designed specifically to replicate. By bringing these physical controls to the iPhone, Pictar offers unprecedented control and gives users the ability to take their iPhone photography to a completely new level and transform the way they use it to take photos and video.

“As the adage goes, the best camera you have is the one you have with you,” said Guy Sprukt, co-founder of miggo. “It’s no secret that one of the most popular smartphones in the world is also one of the most widely used digital cameras.  The image quality of the phone can rival that of some of the best digital cameras on the market. With Pictar, we’re looking to give users – whether they be professionals or social shutterbugs — the ability to DSLR their iPhone and completely unleash its full potential.”

The Pictar project is the result of over a year of extensive research and development focusing on alleviating the shortcomings as it relates to the ergonomics and control of the iPhone. miggo’s product design engineers devoted significant resources to developing a solution to address these shortcomings and help deliver an experience that’s more natural, more comfortable, and that delivers better results.

Key shortcomings addressed by Pictar include:
* Poor control – while touchscreens have proven to be the method of choice for many of today’s mobile devices, they simply aren’t fast enough when it comes to navigating menus or accessing camera controls. Because of this, users choose to simply press capture or record i.e. take the pictures on Auto and fail to truly experience what the iPhone could offer.

* Uncomfortable grip- sleek and slim, the iPhone simply does not offer users a comfortable or secure grip when using the device to capture photos or videos. Due to the way users are forced to hold the phone, it’s often easily dropped or results are often not sharp enough because of an unsteady hand, especially when operating with just one hand.

Pictar features five external controls which operate key settings and includes a patented, revolutionary interface which utilizes high-frequency dual tone sound to activate and control the camera, saving significant battery power compared to standard Bluetooth connectivity. In addition, the ergonomically designed grip allows for one handed operation and sharper images.

In addition, users will also benefit from the optional hand and neck straps, which offer peace of mind, saving Pictar and the user’s iPhone from damage in the event of accidental drops. Both straps feature quick release buckles which enable the user to effortlessly switch between both to suit their needs. Moreover, for safe storage, miggo also includes a stylish padded pouch. Manufactured from neoprene, the pouch will protect Pictar when not in use and can also be attached to a belt or bag for easy transport.

External controls and features include:
1. Multi-state shutter button – electronically calibrated to provide maximum sensitivity, just like that of a traditional DSLR. Pictar’s shutter button offers a “half press” mode to lock focus and exposure for easy tracking of a moving object or to create a desired composition, as well as full-press for immediate shutter release.

2. Zoom ring – located right under the index finger, the rotating zoom ring alleviates the need to touch the screen to pinch-and-zoom, making it easy for the user to zoom in and out with just one hand. The zoom ring can also be programmed and changed by user to suit specific needs.

3. Selfie button – clicking the zoom ring will switch between the iPhone’s front and back camera for easy “selfie” shots.  Like the rotation of the zoom ring, the button can also be programmed and changed by user to suit specific needs and control other settings.

4. Exposure compensation wheel – located on the rear of Pictar, the exposure compensation wheel helps the user determine the exact level of exposure. Based on the user’s preference, the exposure compensation wheel – like Pictar’s selfie button and zoom ring – can also be programmed and changed from its default setting to control other features

5. Smart wheel – customizable, the smart wheel allows users – beginners and advanced – to control a variety of functions. In default mode it changes the camera’s preset modes: sports, landscape, portrait and for the more advanced users, full manual, aperture priority and more. Advanced photographers can choose to program the smart wheel to control other functions, such as manual mode, shutter speed, iso, flash modes and white balance settings.

6. Tripod mount – for those photographers looking for added stability, for landscapes or for video recording, Pictar offers a ¼” standard tripod mount located on the bottom of the device.

7. Cold shoe – located on top of Pictar, the integrated cold shoe will allow users to mount a variety of LED lighting accessories or mics for added creativity and control.

A powerful, dedicated app featuring patented high-frequency dual tone sound control:
Pictar is designed to communicate with the iPhone via a dedicated camera app which unlocks key features inaccessible on the native app to iPhone users. Each of the physical controls found on Pictar drive a specific function or setting and does so using high-frequency dual tone sounds. Each physical control is assigned a specific tone, and with each turn of a dial, press of a button or turn of a wheel, Pictar omits a sound that – when detected by the app – generates a corresponding action. The high-frequency dual tone (18,500 – 20,000 khz) is inaudible to the human ear and significantly increases battery life when compared to Bluetooth connectivity. Using a standard CR ½ AA battery which is easily found worldwide, miggo estimates 6-8 months of use before the need to replace the power source is required.

The Kickstarter campaign is now live with an introductory price of $ 90 USD. Full retail availability is slated for December 2016.

miggo was founded 2013 by a group of designers with extensive experience in developing award-winning camera cases and bags, as well as a passion for bringing to market innovative concepts for carrying and supporting cameras. In just three years, miggo expanded its portfolio to include patented game-changing camera carriers, multi-functional camera and binocular straps and innovative compact tripods. These products are successfully marketed in over 30 countries around the world.

Today, with two highly-successful Kickstarter projects under the company’s belt – the 2014 “Strap & Wrap” campaign and the 2015 “agua” campaign – miggo returns to Kickstarter for the third time with its sights set on the trend of mobile photography. With Pictar, the company’s new state-of-the-art grip enclosure, miggo is giving consumers the ability to truly unleash the power of their iPhone camera and take their mobile photography to a completely new level. 

For more information please visit www.mymiggo.com or follow us on Facebook.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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