If there's is one thing many filmmakers dread while shooting a scene, it is the task of maintaining the focus of a moving subject. Of course, it is always a challenge having a moving subject in focus while attempting to get other critical aspects like the composition and lighting all balanced.

This trouble while manually focusing is quite common to creatives, but it can be avoided. One way to alleviate these issues is through the follow focus. A follow focus will allow you to shoot moving subjects while keeping your camera rig stable, which means that your subject is always in focus.

What Is Follow Focus, and How Does It Work?

A follow focus device allows you to control focus while shooting video. Unlike most cameras, which are fixed-focus and require one to manually adjust the focus with the lens, a follow focus makes it possible to achieve smooth and accurate focusing while shooting.

Adding a follow focus to your video rig allows you to be able to adjust the focus of your camera from a more convenient position, other than directly from the lens itself. This helps you easily highlight the focus in order to create sharper shots when filming.

The working principle of follow focus is simple. It works by attaching it to a motorized ring on your camera’s lens mount (or sometimes directly on your lens). You then use this ring as a joystick to manually move the lens left or right when filming - this allows you to change the focal length of your shot without touching the camera lens which is incredibly useful in situations where there isn’t much room for movement around an actor (or object), such as inside an office building or a small apartment, or when using large telephoto lenses that require more space than usual for focus adjustments (such as with long zooms).

Parts of a Follow Focus and Their Uses

There are two major types of follow focus systems: gear-driven and gearless. Gear-driven follow focuses have been the standard for many years, but recently gearless systems have become more popular due to their ease of use, reduced maintenance, and lower cost.

The gear-driven follow focus uses two gears, also known as the rack and pinion, meshed together and allows you to control the focus of your rig with a large side knob. The gearless follow function is always within quick reach because it doesn’t involve any gear adjustment. Users can simply turn on the motorized ring, press record, and start shooting. The crucial parts of a follow focus that enable you to seamlessly adjust your focus manually are:

● Rod Clamp: This is essentially the base for the follow focus and will often come as 15mm or 19mm.

● Arm: The arm is attached to the rod clamp, and it is the key to the flexibility of your follow focus.

● Gear: The gear acts as the joining point between the arm and the lens knob for the follow focus. The gear allows the knob to find the perfect focus shot by moving it from its minimum to maximum distance.

● Focus Knob: The focus knob helps move the lens gear ring. Users can change focus in smooth motions and transitions with the focus knob.

How does the SmallRig Follow Focus Address the Focus Issue?

When shooting a video, chances are you've experienced focus issues at some points. Watching your footage and seeing the focus shifting from one subject to another can be frustrating. The SmallRig follow focus 3010C addresses this problem by facilitating manual focus in the following ways:

1. Catering to Handheld and Tripod Shooting Scenes

Whether you are shooting handheld or on a tripod, a follow focus helps you stabilize your manual focusing. The SmallRig follow focus follows the movement of your lens, making it easier to maintain sharp focus throughout your shot. The SmallRig Follow Focus setup makes it simple to keep track of what’s in focus while also keeping an eye on your framing and composition.

2. Delivering Maneuverability

Whether right or left-handed, the SmallRig follow focus allows you to mount the follow focus either on the right or left side of your lens, enabling you to capture the best-looking shots without limiting your use of other accessories.

3. Improved Versatility

Have you got various lenses for different shooting scenarios? The SmallRig follow focus has got you covered with its several interchangeable gears (standard 0.8 MOD), compatible with various lens sizes.

Why Do You Need the SmallRig Mini Follow Focus 3010?

The SmallRig mini follow focus 3010C is a lightweight, portable, easy-to-use follow focus system designed for filmmakers who need to create stunning footage with ease. The product is made of high-strength aluminum alloy, and the gears are made of stainless steel. And the best part is that the mini follow focus sits comfortably under $100, with the following robust features:

● The mini follow focus has Adjustable AB

● Marks for easy switch between AB focal length and full focal length

● Multiple interchangeable gears (standard 0.8 MOD), compatible with various lens sizes

● Tie-style focus gear ring for added versatility

● Easy mounting and assembly with its rod clamp (with NATO rail)

Final Thoughts

At SmallRig can you be assured of accessories that of the best build quality. SmallRig is the ideal choice for all your camera shooting equipment. We offer a wide range of products designed to help you get the most out of your camera equipment, whether you’re shooting on a budget or with top-of-the-line gear. SmallRig products are made from high-quality materials, so you can rest assured that your camera will be protected from bumps or scrapes and remain in working order for years to come.

For more information, visit our website and begin your SmallRig journey.