DJI has a 3D focus accessory for the DJI RS 2 that allows you to autofocus any manual lens using LiDAR using what is called time of flight technology. The technology has a few limitations like it won’t autofocus beyond 4m (22ft) because there aren’t enough photons bouncing back at that distance and the system has to be calibrated for each lens. The system also won’t work with lenses that do not have a hard stop.
The system is pretty basic at this time and it is dumb zone AF, but this might be improved with time. The follow focus seems to work best between 1m and 4m from testing and the calibration program, which checks two distances during calibration. The gimbal can store profiles for 3 lenses so you do not have to repeat calibration every time. AF is handled completely independently of the camera and the lens is focused via gears so it will focus even with the camera off and since it uses LiDAR it will even focus in the dark. DJI also makes an accessory to add gears to your manual focus lenses.
The 3D focus module isn’t available yet, but it will be in a few weeks for $169 and it requires the focus motors and RS2, but not the Ravens Eye wireless transmitter that was used in the video. If you want the setup to track you then you will need the Ravens Eye wireless transmitter. This system also makes older cameras with poor AF relevant again, which is a nice bonus.
DJI RS 2 and RSC 2: B&H Photo / shopmoment / Amazon / Adorama
