How often have you found yourself using a wired camera monitor to view footage from your camera? Unfortunately, they are cumbersome and can only be connected via cable, meaning you cannot move them around easily. That’s why external wireless camera monitors are becoming more and more popular.
Wireless camera monitors are a very new technology that is on the rise. While there have been a few products in this category over the last few years, it is only recently that there have been enough products for consumers to be able to choose from. Wireless camera monitors have become more popular among professional filmmakers and consumers because they can be used to shoot movies and take photos from virtually anywhere.
With wireless camera monitors, you can shoot videos seamlessly anywhere, whenever you want. By merely connecting them to another device, they can also be moved as needed. There are various models available, allowing you to choose between compact options, larger ones, and more advanced options. Read our guide to understand how a wireless camera monitor works.
Why Are Wireless Camera Monitors Important for Shooting Videos?
A wireless camera monitor is a device that allows you to view the live feed from your camera on a computer screen. This is an extremely useful tool for photographers, particularly those who shoot videos. When taking a video, being able to see what the camera sees is crucial. Here are some benefits of having wireless camera monitors on set.
Examining What You’re Shooting
Although cameras will always have a way to view the action as it is being captured, the monitors on cameras are very small. You and your crew can view what is being shot in high resolution on an external monitor as it is happening. Unlike the smaller on-camera screens, these large monitors allow you to make thoughtful creative decisions immediately.
Easily Improving the Overall Video Quality
External monitors also give you a better way to view videos without draining your camera’s batteries. The addition of additional equipment to a camera can make some production more difficult than others because different cameras have different battery lives.
However, you can upgrade your camera without using more power because of the personal battery of the external field monitor. The value of an external wireless monitor cannot be overstated. Without putting additional strain on your camera, this production tool can assist you in quickly identifying a variety of common problems.
Faster and Easier Detection of Problems
You have more options for improving your product than just making better creative choices because of the size and image quality of external monitors. Additionally, you can spot a number of problems that will harm your production, like an out-of-focus shot.
Instead of discovering those out-of-focus shots after the filming is over, external monitors can make it easier for you to notice them. Additionally, you’ll be more effective at spotting and fixing continuity issues and frame flaws.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Wireless Camera Monitor
Size
The biggest advantage of a field camera monitor is that it allows you to see what is being shot more closely. This way, you can avoid using the camera’s tiny built-in screen. For this reason, it’s critical to consider the screen size when selecting an on-camera monitor.
Screen sizes should be in the 5′′ to 7′′ range for the best results. The 7-inch monitor may seem like the obvious choice because it is larger, but usage is what really matters here. For the best use, the 5″ field monitor works flawlessly.
Generally speaking:
- For on-camera use, 5-7″ is the sweet spot.
- For larger kits or remote viewing, 7-9″ works well.
- Field monitors of 10″ or larger are typically not intended for on-camera use.
Image Resolution
The image resolution is a further consideration when buying an on-camera monitor. Fortunately, size isn’t an issue with this factor. On-camera monitors with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 are widely available. Our top favorite on-camera monitor is the Hollyland Mars M1, which offers 1920 x1080 screen resolution with professional color calibration for a comfortable viewing experience.
Brightness
This is a more difficult specification to evaluate because, until you actually shoot in the sun one day, you might not really notice any problems with a low-brightness display. Some displays marketed as “daylight-viewable” offer 1000 cd/㎡ (nit) brightness, which is ideal if you plan to do a lot of shooting outdoors or want to make sure you have a display for all lighting conditions.
Field monitors, like the Mars M1 monitor, have ultra-low latency, 1000-nit brightness, and powerful color calibration. Remember:
- We should aim for HD or full HD as the minimum resolution.
- Outdoors and high-brightness monitors are helpful.
- To protect against glare and direct lighting, it is preferable to purchase a hood or shade for outdoor use.
Compatibility
The issue of compatibility is crucial in photography. Regarding external monitors, this is particularly accurate.
If it won’t “talk” to your camera, buying one is pointless. Therefore, it’s crucial to determine which microphones, headphones, video formats, and codecs, and—most importantly—whether your external camera monitor comes with all the necessary connections.
If you’re working with a set assistant, most monitors also let you “loop” the video to other monitors or gadgets. As an alternative, you can simply use an HDMI cable to connect the camera to an external monitor.
In the world of content production, using external wireless camera monitors can greatly enhance your filming process and overall video quality. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your equipment and capturing the best possible footage, it’s essential to work with experienced professionals. Consider searching for a video production company near me, a reputable provider that offers expert video production services. By choosing an established company, you can create captivating and high-quality content without feeling overwhelmed by promotional material.
Conclusion
The best wireless camera monitors have a large display that is easy to see from any angle. They also have excellent image resolution and the ability to connect directly to your camera. This way, you can monitor audio and video separately as well as simultaneously to improve the overall quality.
One field monitor worth laying your hands on is the Hollyland Mars M1. The Mars M1 functions as an all-in-one transmitter, receiver, and monitor solution. It supports video transmission of up to 4K and a high transmission range of 450ft. The Mars M1 is very easy to use, and it’s a great buy for a videographer looking to add more powerful gadgets to their set.
