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SmallHD Focus 5: A Comprehensive Review for Filmmakers and Content Creators

The SmallHD Focus 5 is a popular on-camera monitor known for its compact size, bright display, and affordability. It’s a favorite among independent filmmakers, videographers, and content creators who need a reliable monitoring solution without breaking the bank. This review will delve into the features, performance, and overall value of the SmallHD Focus 5, providing a comprehensive overview to help you decide if it’s the right monitor for your needs.

What is the SmallHD Focus 5?

The SmallHD Focus 5 is a five-inch, daylight-viewable on-camera monitor designed to be lightweight and easy to use. It’s primarily used for monitoring video signals from cameras, providing a larger and more detailed view than the camera’s built-in screen. This allows filmmakers and videographers to accurately assess focus, exposure, and composition, ensuring they capture the best possible footage. The SmallHD Focus 5 is powered by Sony L series batteries, which are widely available and offer excellent battery life.

Key Features and Specifications

Display: 5-inch LCD with 1280×720 resolution
Brightness: 800 nits (daylight viewable)
Inputs/Outputs: HDMI input and output
Power: Sony L series battery
Software: Page Builder OS with customizable pages
Weight: 5.6 oz (without battery)
Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.0 x 0.8 inches

Design and Build Quality

The SmallHD Focus 5 boasts a durable and lightweight design. The plastic housing feels solid and well-constructed, capable of withstanding the rigors of on-location shooting. Its compact size makes it easy to mount on cameras or gimbals without adding excessive weight. The monitor features a single HDMI input and output, as well as a headphone jack for audio monitoring. The power button and menu navigation buttons are located on the top of the monitor, making them easily accessible during operation.

Display Performance

The SmallHD Focus 5 excels in display performance. Its 800-nit brightness ensures excellent visibility even in bright sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor shooting. The 1280×720 resolution provides a sharp and detailed image, allowing for accurate focus assessment. While it’s not a full HD display, the resolution is sufficient for most monitoring needs. The color accuracy of the SmallHD Focus 5 is also commendable, providing a reasonably accurate representation of the footage being captured. [See also: Best On-Camera Monitors for Filmmaking].

Software and Features

One of the standout features of the SmallHD Focus 5 is its Page Builder OS. This intuitive software allows users to create custom pages with various monitoring tools, such as waveform, vectorscope, focus peaking, zebras, and false color. The ability to customize the display to show only the most relevant information is a significant advantage for filmmakers and videographers. The SmallHD Focus 5 also supports 3D LUTs, allowing users to apply custom color grades in real-time for a more accurate representation of the final look of their footage.

Ease of Use

The SmallHD Focus 5 is designed to be user-friendly, even for those new to on-camera monitors. The menu system is straightforward and easy to navigate, and the Page Builder OS allows for quick customization of the display. Mounting the monitor is also simple, thanks to the standard 1/4-20 mounting points on the top and bottom. The SmallHD Focus 5 is a plug-and-play device, requiring minimal setup before use.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Bright, daylight-viewable display
Compact and lightweight design
Customizable Page Builder OS
Supports 3D LUTs
Affordable price point

Cons:

Not a full HD display
Plastic housing may not be as durable as metal alternatives
Limited input/output options

Alternatives to the SmallHD Focus 5

While the SmallHD Focus 5 is a great option, there are several alternatives to consider, depending on your specific needs and budget.

Atomos Ninja V: A more advanced monitor/recorder with 4K recording capabilities. [See also: Atomos Ninja V Review]
Blackmagic Video Assist 5″ 12G HDR: Another monitor/recorder with similar features to the Atomos Ninja V.
Feelworld F5 Pro: A budget-friendly alternative with similar features to the SmallHD Focus 5.

Who is the SmallHD Focus 5 For?

The SmallHD Focus 5 is ideal for independent filmmakers, videographers, and content creators who need a reliable and affordable on-camera monitor. Its bright display, customizable features, and compact design make it a versatile tool for a wide range of shooting scenarios. If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to improve your monitoring capabilities without breaking the bank, the SmallHD Focus 5 is an excellent choice.

Setting up your SmallHD Focus 5

Setting up the SmallHD Focus 5 is a breeze. First, attach a compatible Sony L-series battery to the back of the monitor. Then, using an HDMI cable, connect the monitor to the HDMI output of your camera. Power on the monitor using the power button located on the top. Once powered on, navigate to the menu using the buttons on top to adjust brightness, contrast, and other settings to your preference. Explore the Page Builder OS to add and customize your monitoring tools like waveform, focus peaking, and zebras. Ensure your camera’s output settings are compatible with the monitor’s resolution and frame rates. With these simple steps, the SmallHD Focus 5 is ready to enhance your on-set monitoring experience.

Optimizing your workflow with the SmallHD Focus 5

The SmallHD Focus 5 isn’t just a monitor; it’s a tool that can significantly optimize your workflow. By providing a clear and accurate representation of your camera’s output, you can make informed decisions about focus, exposure, and composition in real-time. This reduces the need for guesswork and post-production corrections, saving you time and money. The customizable Page Builder OS allows you to tailor the display to your specific needs, ensuring that you have the information you need at your fingertips. For example, you can set up one page for focus peaking and another for exposure monitoring. Furthermore, the ability to load 3D LUTs allows you to preview the final look of your footage on set, ensuring that you’re capturing the right look from the start. [See also: Color Grading Workflow Tips].

Troubleshooting common issues with the SmallHD Focus 5

Like any electronic device, the SmallHD Focus 5 can sometimes encounter issues. One common problem is a blank screen. Ensure that the HDMI cable is securely connected to both the monitor and the camera. Also, check that the camera is outputting a signal compatible with the monitor’s resolution and frame rates. If the image is too dark, adjust the brightness settings in the monitor’s menu. If the colors appear inaccurate, try loading a different 3D LUT or resetting the monitor to its default settings. If you’re experiencing battery issues, make sure the battery is fully charged and compatible with the monitor. Refer to the SmallHD website or user manual for more detailed troubleshooting information. If problems persist, contact SmallHD support for assistance. Regularly updating the firmware of the SmallHD Focus 5 can also resolve several issues and improve overall performance.

Conclusion

The SmallHD Focus 5 remains a solid choice for filmmakers and content creators seeking a reliable, bright, and affordable on-camera monitor. Its user-friendly interface, customizable features, and durable design make it a valuable tool for improving on-set monitoring. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive options, the SmallHD Focus 5 delivers excellent performance and value for its price. If you’re looking to enhance your filmmaking workflow without breaking the bank, the SmallHD Focus 5 is definitely worth considering.