Camera
Review: Nikon NX Studio answers our plea for a free, all-in-one editing app
![Review: Nikon NX Studio answers our plea for a free, all-in-one editing app Review: Nikon NX Studio answers our plea for a free, all-in-one editing app](https://2.img-dpreview.com/files/p/E~TS940x788~articles/4959548379/Nikon-NX-Studio-1.0.0-user-interface.jpeg)
Introduction
Nikon NX Studio version 1.0.0’s user interface. |
A few weeks ago, we published an article comparing Nikon’s free ViewNX-i and Capture NX-D utilities with their dominant payware alternative, Adobe Camera Raw, which also underlies the popular Adobe Lightroom Classic. In summary, I found both ViewNX-i and Capture NX-D to offer pretty decent image quality and good performance.
But one of my primary complaints with this duo was that neither app offered a complete feature set. ViewNX-i’s Raw processing capabilities were rather more limited in the interests of approachability, while Capture NX-D lacked features like support for geolocation, keywording, movies, slideshows and more. That left users having to switch back and forth between the pair for a full experience.
The newly released Nikon NX Studio definitively addresses this. It’s essentially a replacement for both applications, offering almost every feature of the pair in a single program. Capture NX-D and ViewNX-i will remain available for download, but are unlikely to be updated to add support for new cameras or compatibility with future operating system updates.
NX Studio replaces ViewNX-i if already installed, but can run alongside Capture NX-D, allowing you to try both in parallel should you want to. It comes bundled with a new version of Nikon Transfer 2 whose sole change is to add support for NX Studio itself. It also works with the same Message Center 2 and Picture Control Utility 2 apps as its predecessors.
It will support all Nikon DSLRs released since the D1 in 1999, as well as all of the company’s Z and 1-series mirrorless cameras, Coolpix compacts and KeyMission action cameras. (Although with that said, AVI-format movies from a couple of dozen Coolpix models released between 2009 and 2011 can’t be played back in the app.)
Key takeaways:
- NX Studio comes with a modern, approachable UI
- Keywording and GPS tagging are now supported
- Allows for movie playback and light editing
- Image quality and performance are broadly similar to predecessors; convenience in a single package is the reason to upgrade
A cleaner, friendlier, more modern user interface
The user interface is aesthetically similar to that of both earlier apps, but it’s now cleaner, friendlier and more standards compliant than before. Icons are monochromatic, with a bolder yellow accent color used to call attention to enabled options, rather than the more muted yellow of the Capture NX-D and ViewNX-i. And unlike both earlier apps, there are no drop shadows or gradient effects, giving NX Studio a cleaner, more modern look.
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Alongside its predecessors, Capture NX-D (bottom left) and ViewNX-i (bottom right), Nikon NX Studio (top) has a cleaner, friendlier user interface that’s nevertheless familiar. |
Compared to NX-D specifically, NX Studio is far more approachable. Adjustment panels are no longer hidden behind toggle buttons, expanding a new one no longer causes a previous one to vanish from the UI, and nor do conflicting variations of a single control appear in multiple places as in the earlier app. If you only use a subset of the controls on offer, you can also create a custom panel containing just those specific controls, which helps made them easier to find.
And unlike in Capture NX-D, Windows conventions are now properly followed, so you can tab or shift-tab to switch back and forth between fields when typing in values directly, saving some wrist strain in having to reach for your mouse or touchpad repeatedly. One slight shortcoming is that while keyboard shortcuts are supported – for example, the F key toggles full-screen mode – there’s no list of shortcuts to be found in the otherwise-excellent user manual, and nor are they listed in the app’s settings. We’ve sent a query over to Nikon about the keyboard shortcuts, and will update this article if and when we receive a response.
Few and minor drawbacks to the new interface
There are relatively few downsides to the new UI. You can no longer undock and float panels to place them wherever you like on the screen, nor can you dock them in different locations to their defaults, other than for the film strip. This defaults to a horizontal bar at the bottom of the screen, but can be switched to a vertical column at screen left instead
The navigation panel, folders and albums controls are all fixed at screen left, while the histogram, adjustments, EXIF information and keywording tools sit at the right of the screen. Both of these side panels can easily be resized, or hidden with a single click on their centrally-located arrow buttons. The film strip lacks a similar button to allow it to be hidden, but you can hide it by dragging downwards when resizing.
Keyword your images manually or based on location
Given that ViewNX-i had a rather abbreviated selection of editing controls, I’d wager most users will be migrating from Capture NX-D. In most respects, NX Studio’s editing controls are identical to that app, although it does add the Color Booster control from ViewNX-i alongside NX-D’s saturation tool, giving you access to other method.
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NX Studio now includes support for XMP and IPTC keywording, including automatic address and Wikipedia data tagging based on geolocation info. | |
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But what else do you gain by switching from NX-D? The most significant addition is probably the arrival of both XMP/IPTC keywording, allowing you to manually tag your images post-import, view existing tags and remove those which aren’t applicable.
If your images are geotagged, you can also add location-based tags semi-automatically, choosing from a list of app-selected location name suggestions, or even from place names suggested via Wikipedia. Confusingly, though, this functionality is available only when in map view, even though the ‘Set from location data’ button remains visible – albeit grayed out – in other views. I’d like to see Nikon correct that to be clickable regardless of your chosen view.
View your images and track logs on the map
Speaking of the map view, that’s another new addition, and it allows you to see geotagged images from your currently-selected folder or album on an interactive world map. You have a choice of map, satellite, hybrid or physical views provided by Google Maps.
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The new Map view can pinpoint the location and capture direction of individual photos, show GPS track logs and automatically geotag your images from the tracks. |
Each individual image shows up as a yellow pushpin on the map, with the currently selected image being shown in red. If your camera recorded a compass bearing at capture time, that direction is also indicated on its pushpin when selected as shown in the screenshot above left, but not otherwise.
If you have an NMEA or GPX track log recorded by the camera itself or a compatible device, these can be imported and shown as a red track line. And once imported, they can be used to approximately geotag selected images based on their capture time as compared to the times recorded in the track log.
Play movies and perform basic editing tasks
Another new addition is support for movies, both in terms of playback and basic editing. The editing functionality allows you to quickly trim the start and end of clips, or splice multiple files together.
You can also combine multiple movie clips and images to make a new file complete with titles, captions, and overlaid music. There are, however, only three transition effects, three still image durations (with optional motion effect), and three brief music samples provided. You can also add your own music in .WAV or .M4A formats, and process movie clips to remove autofocus noise.
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You can now view and perform basic editing on movies in-app, but you’ll need a beefy processor and GPU if you want to do so with ultra high-def footage. | |
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Unfortunately, you’ll need quite a beefy processor and GPU for smooth playback if you shoot in 4K, let alone editing. On my 2018 Dell XPS 15 9570 laptop running Windows 10 version 1909, I found 1080p clips from the Nikon Z5, for example, played smoothly but those at 4K resolution stuttered badly.
And that’s not down to the hardware, as VLC Media Player played them perfectly smoothly on the same computer, while Windows’ own Media Player and Photo apps only dropped a handful of frames.
Several smaller tweaks, too
Nikon NX Studio also includes a number of smaller tweaks compared to Capture NX-D. For one thing, you can now upload images and movies directly to Nikon’s Image Space service and YouTube, respectively. You can also view slideshows with optional, user-provided background music, and the new program adds support for more obscure file formats such as 3D Multi Picture Object files or voice notes recorded on older Coolpix cameras.
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Support is included for uploading your creations to both Nikon Image Space and YouTube. |
Really, I can only find a couple of omissions. As mentioned previously, you can no longer undock interface panels, nor can you change whether they appear in the left or right-side palettes. Other than that, I couldn’t find any other missing features this time around.
Image quality is indistinguishable from NX-D
Initially, I planned to compare Nikon NX Studio’s image quality to that of its predecessors and Adobe Camera Raw in detail. However, on testing the program I’ve found its results with identical settings to be visually indistinguishable from those of NX-D, even though precise file sizes do differ fractionally at the same compression level.
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You can also play basic slideshows in-app, but there are only three transition types to choose from, and you’ll need to supply any background music yourself. |
With that being the case, I’ll refer you to the second page of my earlier article, instead, for a more detailed analysis. NX Studio is capable of delivering good image quality with very pleasing color and impressive shadow recovery, but feel Adobe still has a slight edge when it comes to fine detail at low sensitivities, which increases at higher sensitivities thanks to significantly stronger noise reduction from Nikon.
The good news is that with no noticeable change in image quality, and with all the same controls on offer as in both predecessors, NX Studio will read and apply all the same tweaks as did either earlier application, meaning you can upgrade without fear of having to rework all of your adjustments.
Performance is similar to both predecessors
As for performance, which was already a strong point of Nikon’s software compared to that provided by most manufacturers, things are also pretty similar to before. Adobe still has a small but noticeable edge in the speed of final output processing, and a more substantial advantage in terms of preview performance.
NX Studio is a little faster than Capture NX-D, however. Using the same six comparison images as for my previous article, it took 28 seconds to complete the batch. That’s about two seconds faster than with NX-D, and two seconds slower than NX-i. By way of comparison, performance leader Adobe still holds the crown with a time of 19.5 seconds.
A few bugs, but that’s to be expected in a brand-new app
In my time with Nikon NX Studio, I’ve found it to be very stable, but that’s not to say it’s perfect, nor would I expect a brand-new app to be. I’ve run across a couple of bugs, although only one strikes me as particularly significant. (And both are related to issues I found with the previous apps, as well.)
Firstly, there’s still an issue with detecting dragging of the right-panel scroll bar, regardless of whether the program is running maximized or not. But where this only happened with my Dell Active Pen, it now also happens with both the touch screen and even when dragging with the mouse. Simply using the scroll wheel or a two-fingered touchpad swipe works around this, however.
The program also ignores Windows’ scaling settings entirely in mixed-resolution monitor setups when running on an ultra high-def screen. That makes it extremely difficult to use on a 4K display unless you either lower the resolution or disable your lower-res screen(s).
The good news is that Nikon is aware of this problem and working on a fix. In the meantime, desktop users with mixed-resolution displays can work around it using a scaling setting built into NX Studio, but notebook users will find that they constantly have to change this setting – which also requires an app restart – every time they disconnect or reconnect a display of differing resolution.
NX Studio is a big step in the right direction
So what do I think of Nikon NX Studio? I have to say that it’s a big step in the right direction, giving photographers that Nikon cameras a powerful editing application where they can perform most of the edits they’d want to.
The most important thing here is that the new program provides basically everything of any significance from its two predecessors, allowing you to ditch one of them altogether. Its new interface is noticeably better and easier on the eye, and its performance and image quality are just as good as before.
I think this first iteration of NX Studio is a great replacement for Nikon’s earlier apps. If you’re using either ViewNX-i or Capture NX-D currently, I highly recommend you upgrade to the newer app, because I’m confident that you’ll agree.
What we like:
- Available free with your Nikon camera
- Includes almost every feature of Capture NX-D and ViewNX-i in a single app
- Recognizes and retains edits made with Capture NX-D or ViewNX-i
- Significantly friendlier interface than its predecessors, though with familiar controls
- Realistic color with minimal effort
- Impressive shadow recovery from Active D-Lighting and D-Lighting HS
- Slightly faster than Capture NX-D, albeit still a fair bit slower than Adobe
- A very generous editing feature-set
What we don’t:
- No overall one-click auto control, although many individual controls have an auto setting
- Noise reduction robs fine detail and, depending on your camera, there may not be much scope to fine-tune it
- Interactions between controls can prove challenging
- 4K video playback requires beefy hardware
- Similar touch/pen issues to earlier apps, but they’re easily worked around
Camera
Accessory Roundup: mini Nikons, a desk arm, and new cages for new cameras
![Accessory Roundup: mini Nikons, a desk arm, and new cages for new cameras Accessory Roundup: mini Nikons, a desk arm, and new cages for new cameras](https://3.img-dpreview.com/files/p/E~TS590x0~articles/7678579451/Lede.jpeg)
Images: Dua Lipa, Three Legged Thing, Bandai Namco |
It’s the weekend, so that means we’re once again rounding up all the little accessories and gadgets that we heard about throughout the week. But first, let’s see what’s on sale this week…
Full Frame Gold
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The Sony a7R V.
Photo: Richard Butler |
The Sony a7RV, which has earned both a place on our best high-end cameras buyers guide and a gold award, is currently on sale for $500 off MSRP. It features a stabilized 61MP sensor, as well as Sony’s excellent autofocus system.
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The Nikon Z5.
Photo: Dan Bracaglia |
For those looking to spend a little less, the DPReview Gold-winning Nikon Z5 is also $400 off MSRP, which makes it just under $1,000 body only. It features a 24MP sensor, and while its autofocus and video are far from class-leading, its ergonomics and battery life help make up for those downsides – especially at this price.
Buy now:
You get a SmallRig, and YOU get a SmallRig
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The EOS R5 II is going into its cage, and it’s feeling just fine.
Image: SmallRig |
SmallRig has come out with a few new kits this week. The company has started selling versions of its ‘HawkLock’ quick-release cage and ‘Black Mamba’ ergonomic cage for the Canon EOS R5 Mark II now that the camera is starting to make its way to consumers. The company is also releasing a traditional basic cage for the EOS R5 II.
HawkLock cage kit for EOS R5 II:
Black Mamba cage kit for EOS R5 II:
The company has also released ‘Colorful Editions’ for the HawkLock cages for the Sony FX3 / FX30 and A7R V / A7 IV / A7S III. Similar to its last color event, it’s only selling a limited number of each, though there are fewer colors to choose from; you can only get the cages in red or orange this time around. They also come at a $5 price premium over their black counterparts.
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Image: SmallRig |
On the other end of the photography/videography spectrum, SmallRig has also released a new kit for people serious about shooting video with their phones. Its ‘All-In-One Mobile Video Kit’ is a collaboration with YouTuber and filmmaker Brandon Li. It includes a cage, which you can attach to your phone using Apple’s Magsafe or a more traditional clamp, as well as a pair of handles, a 67mm filter plate, and a USB hub.
The handles have a few tricks beyond just giving you a place to grip your phone. One includes an m.2 SSD enclosure, which can be used for external ProRes recording on the iPhone 15 Pro. It also has an integrated Bluetooth remote, which acts as a wireless shutter and zoom control for Android phones and iPhones.
SmallRig is offering several different bundles of the video kit, and you can buy several of the components separately.
Buy now:
An always-with you card reader
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Image: Anker |
If your phone is less of your main camera and more of an accessory to your photography, Anker’s latest MagSafe offering may be for you. It’s a puck that adds an SD and TF card reader to the back of your phone, so you can offload pictures from a dedicated camera to share on social media or upload to the cloud.
The MagGo USB-C Adapter has an integrated USB-C cable, which plugs into your phone to enable data transfer. It also has a USB-C port on the side, which allows it to also act as a pass-through charger if you connect it to a power adapter or battery bank. According to Anker it can output up to 42.5W, and supports data speeds up to 312MB/s (though the iPhone 15’s USB-C port is limited to much slower USB 2.0 speeds).
Of course, you can also connect the MagGo’s cable to a computer, which will let it act as a USB-C hub and card reader dongle.
Buy now:
The Desk Arm
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This could be an incredibly easy way to mount a camera and ring light to your desk.
Image: Three Legged Thing |
Three Legged Thing has announced a series of accessories called the ‘Camera Desk Mount System.’ At its heart is an extending pole that you can clamp to a table or desk with a ball head and 1/4″-20 thread on top. Also available is an accessory arm that clamps to the pole and that can be purchased in straight or articulating varieties.
The company is marketing the system towards content creators making videos for TikTok, Reels, and Twitch, but it could also be handy for photographers who often find themselves needing to get top-down shots of their desk (or for people who want a place to mount their extra-fancy webcam). It can hold items up to 1kg (2.2lbs).
The upright mount costs $35 on its own, and you can get a kit with a single accessory arm for $50 or the articulating arm for $60. You can also get the arms a la carte for $23 and $30, respectively.
Buy now:
Tiny Nikons
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Image: Bandai Namco |
This next pick isn’t an accessory for your camera but rather a camera-shaped accessory for your desk, keychain, or bookshelf. Nikon has partnered with Bandai Namco to create miniature versions of the Nikon F, Z Fc, SP, and Z9, which will be sold through capsule vending machines known as gashapons.
Each plastic figurine comes with a specific ‘lens,’ though they are removable, so you might be able to mix and match them if you had multiple models. According to The Verge, they’re only available in Japan. Those of us elsewhere will have to be happy just knowing these exist in the world.
Radical optimism about film
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Image: Dua Lipa |
The final piece of gear doesn’t come from a camera retailer but from a pop star’s merch shop. Dua Lipa, the artist behind hits like ‘New Rules’ and ‘Don’t Start Now,’ is now selling a ‘reusable 35mm underwater camera’ on her merch store (via Kosmo Foto). It has a 28mm F9 ‘focus free’ lens, according to the very colorful box.
The camera’s branded with the name of her latest album ‘Radical Optimism,’ and includes a lanyard and waterproof shell that’ll work down to 3m (approx. 10ft). However, the package doesn’t include any film, which is a bit of a bummer given its $40 price tag – you can currently get a 27-shot waterproof disposable for around $13, which is unfortunately cheaper than most rolls of color ISO 800 film these days. It’s also worth noting that Fujifilm and Kodak’s one-time-use waterproofs are rated to go over twice as deep as Dua’s.
However, it’s probably worth looking at this camera with some… optimism, for lack of a better word. If a Dua Lipa fan sees it, buys it, and has fun with it, that’s one more person keeping film alive. How’s that for Future Nostalgia?
Camera
DJI's 'Neo' Drone is $200 and made for taking selfies
![DJI's 'Neo' Drone is 0 and made for taking selfies DJI's 'Neo' Drone is 0 and made for taking selfies](https://4.img-dpreview.com/files/p/E~TS590x0~articles/1919790610/DJI_Neo_palm.jpeg)
Image: DJI |
DJI has announced a new drone called the Neo. It costs $199, weighs a mere 135g (4.76oz), can shoot 4K video, and can fly for up to 18 minutes. The company says it’s designed as “a vlogging tool ideal for capturing everyday life, leisure activities, family moments, and pets.”
In essence, it’s a flying selfie camera, similar to the HoverAir X1 or Snap Pixy. It comes with removable propeller guards that allow it to be used safely indoors, though using them will slightly reduce its flight time.
The Neo can capture 12MP images using a Type 1/2 (6.4 x 4.8) sensor with a 14mm full-frame equivalent F2.8 lens. It can shoot in 4K/30 or 1080 at up to 60p. If you aren’t using electronic image stabilization, the video will be 4:3; turn on the ‘RockSteady’ or ‘HorizonBalancing’ mode, and it’ll drop down to 16:9. The drone also has a physical single-axis (up/down) gimbal to help keep footage steady, even if it’s moderately windy.
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The DJI Neo can do ‘Palm Takeoff’ and automatically follow you around.
Image: DJI |
The drone’s controls align with its beginner and casual photographer-friendly nature. A button on the top lets you select what mode you want the drone to use; by default, it will follow you, using ‘AI algorithms’ to keep you in frame, even if you’re moving quickly on a skateboard or bicycle.
From there, you can hold it out in your hand and it will automatically take off and start recording after detecting you as a subject. How you get it to land will depend on what mode it’s in, but it can fly back and land in your palm as well.
The drone also has a feature known as ‘QuickShots,’ where it will automatically perform a specific movement such as circling around you or zooming straight up into the sky while keeping you in the center of the frame. You can select a QuickShot mode using the button, or the drone’s app.
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You can essentially control the DJI Neo with one button, though the company says you should set up the app in case you need to take control of it while it’s in flight.
Image: DJI |
The app also lets you control the drone with your voice or with virtual joysticks on the screen. It’s also how you preview the footage it’s taking and export it to social media, and it even supports recording audio with your phone’s microphone.
You can buy an optional controller for the Neo, but physical controls alone won’t make it a suitable replacement for serious video drones like the DJI Mavic or even DJI Mini. Those drones have larger cameras, more sophisticated gimbals and ranges measured in kilometers, where the Neo can only be used up to 50m (164ft) away.
Of course, that’s not what the Neo is designed for. As its product page says, it’s made to ‘capture cinematic footage with YOU in focus,’ and to do that task with as little fuss as possible. And at that $199 price point, it seems likely it’ll be a hit with consumers who want to spice up their social media feeds without really having to learn how to use a drone.
The Neo is for people who want drone shots without having to learn how to use a drone
With that said, there are potential dark skies in DJIs future that any Americans considering the Neo should be aware of. Congress is currently considering passing the ‘Countering CCP Drones Act,’ which could act as a de facto ban on the company’s drones. If passed, “telecommunications and video surveillance equipment or services” made by DJI would be placed on a list of products that ‘pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security,’ according to the bill’s summary. The company has published a document responding to ‘inaccuracies lodged against DJI in the public domain,’ but it remains unclear whether its products will be allowed in the United States in the future.
For those outside the US or who are willing to roll the dice, however, the Neo could turn out to be an extremely fun toy. If you get one, just be sure to be very aware of the rules around using a drone wherever you are. It may be small and light enough to take anywhere, but that doesn’t mean it should be used everywhere.
Buy now:
Press Release
DJI Makes Everyday Life Recording Fun and Easy with New Personal, Palm-Sized Videographer
New DJI Neo is light, compact, and makes capturing cinematic photos and videos effortless
DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, today announces the DJI Neo, a new personal lightweight and compact aerial videographer for taking cinematic footage of day-to-day adventures or having fun with friends. Weighing less than 5 ounces (135g), Neo can take off and land from the palm of the hand1. It can be flown indoors or outside for a flight time of up to 18 minutes1 and takes 4K ultra-stabilized videos via QuickShots. The propellers are fully enclosed to ensure the safety of users and their surroundings.
“At DJI we are always studying everyday camera use so that we can help people capture their videos and photos in the most convenient way possible. The DJI Neo strives to give people the latest tech in the smallest form factor so that they can capture their daily lives, saved as treasured memories, safely and with ease,” said Ferdinand Wolf, Creative Director at DJI.
Into the Air at the Press of a Button
By simply pressing the mode button and selecting the desired shooting mode, Neo will automatically snap 12MP stills with its 1/2-inch image sensor or produce 4K UHD stabilized videos at 4K/30fps1 using DJI’s powerful stabilization algorithms. Upon completion, Neo will return to the user’s palm.
Tell Your Story with QuickShots
Neo’s AI algorithms have been created to keep the subject within frame. Whether cycling, skateboarding or hiking, captivating shots can be created with ease. Additional creativity can be achieved by taking advantage of Neo’s QuickShots, which has six intelligent shooting modes1, offering a range of different recording angles.
Expanse: Videographer flies backward and ascends, with the camera locked on the subject, and records a video.
Circle: Videographer circles around the subject.
Rocket: Videographer ascends with the camera pointing downward.
Spotlight: Videographer rotates while keeping the object of interest within the frame
Helix: Videographer ascends and spirals around the subject.
Boomerang: Videographer flies around the subject in an oval path, ascending as it flies away from its starting point and descending as it flies back. Its starting point forms one end of the oval’s long axis, while the other end is at the subject’s opposite side from the starting point.
Control It Your Way
Neo has been designed to fly with style and capture hassle-free photos and videos. It can be piloted using one-button QuickShots or voice control1 which is enabled with the “Hey Fly” command. With a Wi-Fi connection, Neo can also be controlled using the DJI Fly app’s virtual joysticks on the app’s interface with a control range of up to 50 meters1. Within the app, the perspective and distance can be set, giving extra freedom to shoot from afar or up close.
Stabilization as Standard
Neo is equipped with a single-axis mechanical gimbal and is capable of handling high-speeds or flights with lots of maneuvers. When combined with RockSteady or HorizonBalancing stabilization, overall image shake is significantly reduced and horizon tilt is corrected within ±45°1, for smooth and stable footage that maintains clarity in both highlight and shadow areas. Using an infrared and monocular vision positioning system, Neo can hover steadily in the air, maintaining stability even in Level 4 wind conditions. It also supports automatic Return to Home (RTH) for convenient, worry-free operation.
Transfer Content and Record Sound Wirelessly
Using the DJI Fly app, phones and videos captured with Neo can be transferred instantly via high-speed QuickTransfer. This wireless transfer makes post production and sharing smoother. The DJI Fly app offers a vast selection of templates, sound effects, and image effects, for quick and easy editing.
Audio can also easily be recorded wirelessly with the simple tap of a button on the DJI Fly app, either through the smartphone’s built-in microphone or DJI Mic 2 via Bluetooth for even higher audio quality. The app automatically eliminates propeller noise and merges the audio track with the footage, ensuring a clear sound even when shooting low-angle vlogs.
For convenient charging, connect Neo directly to a power source using a Type-C data cable. Additionally, the Two-Way Charging Hub can charge three batteries simultaneously1, increasing both charging speed and efficiency.
Price and Availability
The DJI Neo is available for pre-order from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners, in the following configurations:
DJI Neo: 199 USD
DJI Neo Combo: 289 USD
Neo Debuts at IFA, 6-10 September, 2024
Be among the first to experience the groundbreaking DJI Neo at this year’s IFA, Germany. Visitors can try it out at DJI’s booth (Hall 17-110) from 6th-10th September.
DJI Care Refresh
DJI Care Refresh, the comprehensive protection plan for DJI products, is now available for DJI Neo. The replacement service covers accidental damage, including flyaway, collisions and water damage. For a small additional charge, you can have your damaged product replaced if an accident occurs.
DJI Care Refresh (1-Year Plan) includes up to two replacements in one year. DJI Care Refresh (2-Year Plan) includes up to four replacements in two years. Other services of DJI Care Refresh include official Warranty and free shipping. For a full list of details, please visit: https://www.dji.com/support/service/djicare-refresh.
1All data was measured using a production model of DJI Neo in a controlled environment.
1For more information, please refer to https://www.dji.com/neo.
Camera
DJI's 'Neo' Drone is $200 and made for taking selfies
![DJI's 'Neo' Drone is 0 and made for taking selfies DJI's 'Neo' Drone is 0 and made for taking selfies](https://4.img-dpreview.com/files/p/E~TS590x0~articles/1919790610/DJI_Neo_palm.jpeg)
Image: DJI |
DJI has announced a new drone called the Neo. It costs $199, weighs a mere 135g (4.76oz), can shoot 4K video, and can fly for up to 18 minutes. The company says it’s designed as “a vlogging tool ideal for capturing everyday life, leisure activities, family moments, and pets.”
In essence, it’s a flying selfie camera, similar to the HoverAir X1 or Snap Pixy. It comes with removable propeller guards that allow it to be used safely indoors, though using them will slightly reduce its flight time.
The Neo can capture 12MP images using a Type 1/2 (6.4 x 4.8) sensor with a 14mm full-frame equivalent F2.8 lens. It can shoot in 4K/30 or 1080 at up to 60p. If you aren’t using electronic image stabilization, the video will be 4:3; turn on the ‘RockSteady’ or ‘HorizonBalancing’ mode, and it’ll drop down to 16:9. The drone also has a physical single-axis (up/down) gimbal to help keep footage steady, even if it’s moderately windy.
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The DJI Neo can do ‘Palm Takeoff’ and automatically follow you around.
Image: DJI |
The drone’s controls align with its beginner and casual photographer-friendly nature. A button on the top lets you select what mode you want the drone to use; by default, it will follow you, using ‘AI algorithms’ to keep you in frame, even if you’re moving quickly on a skateboard or bicycle.
From there, you can hold it out in your hand and it will automatically take off and start recording after detecting you as a subject. How you get it to land will depend on what mode it’s in, but it can fly back and land in your palm as well.
The drone also has a feature known as ‘QuickShots,’ where it will automatically perform a specific movement such as circling around you or zooming straight up into the sky while keeping you in the center of the frame. You can select a QuickShot mode using the button, or the drone’s app.
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You can essentially control the DJI Neo with one button, though the company says you should set up the app in case you need to take control of it while it’s in flight.
Image: DJI |
The app also lets you control the drone with your voice or with virtual joysticks on the screen. It’s also how you preview the footage it’s taking and export it to social media, and it even supports recording audio with your phone’s microphone.
You can buy an optional controller for the Neo, but physical controls alone won’t make it a suitable replacement for serious video drones like the DJI Mavic or even DJI Mini. Those drones have larger cameras, more sophisticated gimbals and ranges measured in kilometers, where the Neo can only be used up to 50m (164ft) away.
Of course, that’s not what the Neo is designed for. As its product page says, it’s made to ‘capture cinematic footage with YOU in focus,’ and to do that task with as little fuss as possible. And at that $199 price point, it seems likely it’ll be a hit with consumers who want to spice up their social media feeds without really having to learn how to use a drone.
The Neo is for people who want drone shots without having to learn how to use a drone
With that said, there are potential dark skies in DJIs future that any Americans considering the Neo should be aware of. Congress is currently considering passing the ‘Countering CCP Drones Act,’ which could act as a de facto ban on the company’s drones. If passed, “telecommunications and video surveillance equipment or services” made by DJI would be placed on a list of products that ‘pose an unacceptable risk to U.S. national security,’ according to the bill’s summary. The company has published a document responding to ‘inaccuracies lodged against DJI in the public domain,’ but it remains unclear whether its products will be allowed in the United States in the future.
For those outside the US or who are willing to roll the dice, however, the Neo could turn out to be an extremely fun toy. If you get one, just be sure to be very aware of the rules around using a drone wherever you are. It may be small and light enough to take anywhere, but that doesn’t mean it should be used everywhere.
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Press Release
DJI Makes Everyday Life Recording Fun and Easy with New Personal, Palm-Sized Videographer
New DJI Neo is light, compact, and makes capturing cinematic photos and videos effortless
DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, today announces the DJI Neo, a new personal lightweight and compact aerial videographer for taking cinematic footage of day-to-day adventures or having fun with friends. Weighing less than 5 ounces (135g), Neo can take off and land from the palm of the hand1. It can be flown indoors or outside for a flight time of up to 18 minutes1 and takes 4K ultra-stabilized videos via QuickShots. The propellers are fully enclosed to ensure the safety of users and their surroundings.
“At DJI we are always studying everyday camera use so that we can help people capture their videos and photos in the most convenient way possible. The DJI Neo strives to give people the latest tech in the smallest form factor so that they can capture their daily lives, saved as treasured memories, safely and with ease,” said Ferdinand Wolf, Creative Director at DJI.
Into the Air at the Press of a Button
By simply pressing the mode button and selecting the desired shooting mode, Neo will automatically snap 12MP stills with its 1/2-inch image sensor or produce 4K UHD stabilized videos at 4K/30fps1 using DJI’s powerful stabilization algorithms. Upon completion, Neo will return to the user’s palm.
Tell Your Story with QuickShots
Neo’s AI algorithms have been created to keep the subject within frame. Whether cycling, skateboarding or hiking, captivating shots can be created with ease. Additional creativity can be achieved by taking advantage of Neo’s QuickShots, which has six intelligent shooting modes1, offering a range of different recording angles.
Expanse: Videographer flies backward and ascends, with the camera locked on the subject, and records a video.
Circle: Videographer circles around the subject.
Rocket: Videographer ascends with the camera pointing downward.
Spotlight: Videographer rotates while keeping the object of interest within the frame
Helix: Videographer ascends and spirals around the subject.
Boomerang: Videographer flies around the subject in an oval path, ascending as it flies away from its starting point and descending as it flies back. Its starting point forms one end of the oval’s long axis, while the other end is at the subject’s opposite side from the starting point.
Control It Your Way
Neo has been designed to fly with style and capture hassle-free photos and videos. It can be piloted using one-button QuickShots or voice control1 which is enabled with the “Hey Fly” command. With a Wi-Fi connection, Neo can also be controlled using the DJI Fly app’s virtual joysticks on the app’s interface with a control range of up to 50 meters1. Within the app, the perspective and distance can be set, giving extra freedom to shoot from afar or up close.
Stabilization as Standard
Neo is equipped with a single-axis mechanical gimbal and is capable of handling high-speeds or flights with lots of maneuvers. When combined with RockSteady or HorizonBalancing stabilization, overall image shake is significantly reduced and horizon tilt is corrected within ±45°1, for smooth and stable footage that maintains clarity in both highlight and shadow areas. Using an infrared and monocular vision positioning system, Neo can hover steadily in the air, maintaining stability even in Level 4 wind conditions. It also supports automatic Return to Home (RTH) for convenient, worry-free operation.
Transfer Content and Record Sound Wirelessly
Using the DJI Fly app, phones and videos captured with Neo can be transferred instantly via high-speed QuickTransfer. This wireless transfer makes post production and sharing smoother. The DJI Fly app offers a vast selection of templates, sound effects, and image effects, for quick and easy editing.
Audio can also easily be recorded wirelessly with the simple tap of a button on the DJI Fly app, either through the smartphone’s built-in microphone or DJI Mic 2 via Bluetooth for even higher audio quality. The app automatically eliminates propeller noise and merges the audio track with the footage, ensuring a clear sound even when shooting low-angle vlogs.
For convenient charging, connect Neo directly to a power source using a Type-C data cable. Additionally, the Two-Way Charging Hub can charge three batteries simultaneously1, increasing both charging speed and efficiency.
Price and Availability
The DJI Neo is available for pre-order from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners, in the following configurations:
DJI Neo: 199 USD
DJI Neo Combo: 289 USD
Neo Debuts at IFA, 6-10 September, 2024
Be among the first to experience the groundbreaking DJI Neo at this year’s IFA, Germany. Visitors can try it out at DJI’s booth (Hall 17-110) from 6th-10th September.
DJI Care Refresh
DJI Care Refresh, the comprehensive protection plan for DJI products, is now available for DJI Neo. The replacement service covers accidental damage, including flyaway, collisions and water damage. For a small additional charge, you can have your damaged product replaced if an accident occurs.
DJI Care Refresh (1-Year Plan) includes up to two replacements in one year. DJI Care Refresh (2-Year Plan) includes up to four replacements in two years. Other services of DJI Care Refresh include official Warranty and free shipping. For a full list of details, please visit: https://www.dji.com/support/service/djicare-refresh.
1All data was measured using a production model of DJI Neo in a controlled environment.
1For more information, please refer to https://www.dji.com/neo.
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