Interchangeable Lenses and New Color Management Features Make it a More Flexible Tool for Cinematographers
DJI announced the Zenmuse X7, a new drone camera with a Super-35 format sensor that shoots raw footage at up to 6K.
The Zenmuse X7 can capture 14 stops of dynamic range, DJI said. Even better, it utilizes a new DL-mount system for changing among an available set of F2.8 prime lens options — 16mm, 24mm, 35mm and 50mm. The 16mm lens has a built-in ND 4 filter, DJI said, while the 24mm, 35mm and 50mm lenses have a mechanical shutter built in.
DJI said the set-up weighs a total of 631 grams when fitted with the 16mm lens (as pictured, above). With the Zenmuse X7 installed, the DJI Inspire 2 has a max flight time of 23 minutes, the company said.
DJI Zenmuse X7 camera with 16mm lens attached
Recording options include 6K CinemaDNG raw or 5.2K Apple ProRes at up to 30p and 3.9K CinemaDNG raw or 2.7K Apple ProRes at up to 59.94p.
Also new in the X7 is the DJI Cinema Color System, which utilizes a D-Log curve and D-Gamut RGB color space developed in consultation with Technicolor for a more cinema-style approach to color management. A new EI Mode is meant to use different curves to maximize latitude for post production.
“The Zenmuse X7 offers everything professional content creators need to make their aerial footage as stunning and vivid as they demand,” said DJI Senior Product Manager Paul Pan in a prepared statement. “From the large Super 35 sensor to a new mount, lenses, and color system, the Zenmuse X7 gives cinematographers and professional photographers an unmatched set of tools that work seamlessly with the DJI Inspire 2 drone to capture high-quality footage that is easily integrated into projects shot with industry-leading handheld cameras.”
The Zenmuse X7 is expected to start shipping early in November for $2,699, DJI said. The 16mm, 24mm and 35mm lenses will be $1,299 each and the 50mm lens will be $1,199, but a four lens package will be available for $4,299, a $797 discount.
