In this article by Christian Kober for Riwit, the importance of using an external monitor for filming and photography is emphasized as a crucial step to elevate your creative work. Relying solely on a camera’s built-in display can create challenges, especially with focus, exposure, and visibility in bright outdoor environments. By using an external monitor for photography or videography, you gain access to larger screens, better resolution, and professional tools that help ensure accuracy and efficiency during shooting.
Why an External Monitor is Essential for Photography and Filmmaking
Kober outlines several key benefits of an external monitor. First, an external camera monitor provides a larger screen and better visibility, especially under challenging lighting conditions like bright sunlight. High-resolution monitors offer superior image clarity, making it easier to focus and fine-tune details in real-time, which reduces the need for extensive post-production work. This is critical for both professional filmmakers and photographers looking to deliver high-quality results quickly.
Moreover, many external monitors come equipped with professional features like histograms, vectorscopes, focus peaking, and false color, which allow users to correct exposure, focus, and color settings with precision. These tools are invaluable for those working in complex shoots where every frame needs to be perfect.
The Flexibility and Ergonomic Benefits of an External Monitor
Another advantage of using an external monitor for video production or photography is the flexibility it provides. Unlike built-in camera displays, external monitors can be positioned at various angles, making it easier to maintain an ergonomic posture during long shoots. This is especially beneficial when using equipment like gimbals, where awkward camera angles are common.
Additionally, external monitors allow filmmakers to see not just the frame but also the surroundings. This wider field of view helps camera operators detect unexpected elements entering the frame, enabling quicker adjustments and more dynamic composition.
Atomos Shinobi II: The Best External Monitor for Professionals
One of the best examples of a professional-grade external monitor for filmmakers is the Atomos Shinobi II. This monitor is praised for its 1500 Nit brightness, ensuring clear visibility even in direct sunlight. Its Full HD resolution provides crisp, color-accurate images, making it easier to assess focus, color balance, and exposure on set.
The Shinobi II also includes advanced features like focus peaking, zebra, and 3D LUT support, which help filmmakers fine-tune skin tones, manage highlights, and achieve the perfect shot. Furthermore, the monitor offers intuitive camera control, compatible with popular mirrorless cameras from brands like Canon, Sony, Nikon, and Panasonic. This flexibility allows users to adjust camera settings directly through the monitor, saving time and effort during fast-paced shoots.
External Monitors: A Must-Have for Filmmakers and Photographers
In conclusion, external monitors are no longer just accessories—they are essential tools for anyone serious about improving their videography or photography workflow. By providing better visibility, superior image quality, and advanced tools, an external monitor helps ensure every shot is perfectly captured. For professionals, the Atomos Shinobi II stands out as a powerful and lightweight option, offering camera control, HDR support, and rugged durability for use in any environment.
Read the full article by Christian Kober HERE
