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using the smart z-finder, viewfinder for phones

A Smart Z-Finder Review: Transforming the small screen of a smartphone into a powerful tool

The Zacuto Smart Z-Finder is an innovative viewfinder designed for smartphone filmmakers, offering a significant enhancement in both viewing quality and filming 
precision. This accessory aims to provide a more professional experience for
smartphone videographers and filmmakers.


The Zacuto Smart Z-Finder boasts a sleek and robust design. Made with durable
materials, it is lightweight but still feels solid and well-constructed in hand. The
viewfinder attaches securely to most smartphones, I use an iPhone 15 pro. The
ergonomic design ensures comfort during prolonged use, making it an ideal
companion for lengthy shooting sessions. I’ve used it on two shoots so far and it has enhanced my shooting experience tremendously!

Smart Z-Finder Drop in Diopters- No more glasses! 

One of the standout features of the Smart Z-Finder are its drop-in diopters, catering to users with varying vision needs, which significantly enhances the clarity and detail of the smartphone screen. No more putting glasses on, taking glasses off, misplacing my readers, sitting on my readers, losing my glasses, where are my glasses? Oh on my head! Duh! Don’t need them with the multiple magnifying diopters! The drop-in diopter ensures that users with different eyesight can achieve a sharp view, enhancing the overall filming experience. It also comes with 3 anti-fog discs. Most importantly, the viewfinder’s ability to block out ambient light is particularly beneficial especially in bright outdoor settings, No glare whatsoever! There is an opening at the bottom that gives you room to tap the screen in order to control your camera.


In terms of performance, the Zacuto Smart Z-Finder excels. The magnification and clarity it provides are game-changers for mobile filmmaking, transforming the small screen of a smartphone into a powerful tool for precise framing and focus.
The professional-grade Zacuto Smart Z-Finder is a must-have accessory for serious smartphone filmmakers. While it may be on the pricier side, its benefits far outweigh the cost for those looking to elevate their smartphone filming capabilities. Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or a budding enthusiast, the Smart Z-Finder is sure to impress and enhance your creative projects.

Written by Joshua Fishbein @RAZRFISH

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Comments

Bill Kerrigan - October 17, 2024

Just wrapped up a shoot for an agency filming interviews for social media. We had a small crew, including an agency rep, director, makeup artist as needed, and myself as the cinematographer.

We used an iPhone 15 Pro Max shooting in LOG Pro Res. The goal was to keep things small and flexible, allowing us to shift locations quickly. Initially, I was a bit nervous, but by the second day, I was having fun.

One piece of gear I was adamant about using was the Zacuto Smart Z-Finder. Without an external monitor, verifying shots in the bright sunlight would have been nearly impossible. The Zacuto Smart Z-Finder turned out to be one of the best viewfinders I’ve ever used, significantly enhancing my shooting experience and ensuring we captured every detail accurately.

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