Today we are looking at the first fully integrated LiDAR follow focus system developed by PDMovie under the title of PDMovie LiveAir 3 Smart.
Concept
Wireless follow-focus technology has been around for a while. We’ve reviewed a number of these units in the last couple of years, and they definitely offer versatility and
We reviewed PDmovie’s previous version of this follow focus in May 2022, so refer to that video for the kit overview and the system’s technical aspects. Also, PDmovie ships this system in multiple [controller/ motor/accessories] configurations, so make sure you know what you’re ordering. [Our kit is the Motor Smart Mini + controller + Remote Air rig handwheel.]
PDMovie-LiveAir-3-Smart with a 30mm T1.5 Irix lens
Innovations
The LiveAir 3 Smart uses the same controller as the previous version and a very similar-looking motor. The biggest innovation is that they managed to fit a lidar inside this thin motor. [there is also a double-power motor available]
The Motor features 2 indicator lights: a small one for motor status and a bigger one for lens ID. There is a single button with multiple tap inputs for different functions, like calibration, speed, and pairing.
The PDMovie-LiveAir-3-Smart with a front-facing Lidar system
Features
The system features 3-speed settings to control how fast the motor reacts to the controller. The slow setting is best for close-up shots. For any kind of action, it’s best to change to high speed by clicking the motor button 5 times. The indicator light will flash 3 times for the high-speed setting.
Another useful feature of the LiveAir 3 Smart is 5 customizable auto-focus presets. These are identified in different colors by the bigger light indicator on the motor. To switch between these presets, double-click the motor button. The kit also includes color labels for the lenses to identify which preset is for which lens.
The motor rotation direction feature can be activated from the controller or on the motor itself by clicking the button 7 times.
Limitations
In our review of PDmovie’s previous version of the LiveAir system, we had a lot to say about mounting. And a year and a half later, the issue is still very present. The selling point of this system is its minimal size, but I think it’s important to point out that you probably wouldn’t use this system in its most stripped-down presentation.
The rod holder that comes in this kit just doesn’t keep the motor steady. It’s a powerful motor that requires a solid hold. The best way to set this motor up is on rods. Even with a cage with multiple points of contact on the camera, the motor gear can get loose.
Another design aspect that really limits this system is the lack of a screen. The light indicators can’t convey all the information. Of course, a screen would increase the size of this motor, but that could actually help with mounting and give enough room for a battery cover.
Besides, when you consider the size of the rig with rods and batteries, this motor can definitely be bigger.
Another limitation that we ran into is the app that controls the motor remotely. We had trouble getting it to work, even though it showed that it connected to the motor. It’s a very simple interface with no setup options. A more robust app with all the settings would improve this system a lot.
Requires a strong motor attachment setup
In use
All this doesn’t mean that it’s not a great system. We’ve used it on long shoots, and the batteries hold up just fine. It’s responsive and relatively easy to set up.
Remembering all the button tap functions is a bit of a learning curve [again, a menu screen would help], but once everything is set up, the operation is seamless.
Of course, the most important feature of this system is the lidar, and in our experience, it has been very quick and dependable.
Autofocus
One thing that takes a while to get used to though, is that it’s a system that’s independent from the camera, so when you’re not recording, it’ll still try to focus. We had to try to remember to turn it off by clicking the motor button.
To set up the autofocus, PDmovie provides a focusing card that you print out and manually operate the lens wheel to focus at the minimal focusing distance, 2 feet farther, and another 5 feet back for the maximum distance. Click the motor button to set the focus at each step, and the motor will confirm with a beep.
The lidar’s function is limited beyond 13 feet and in bright sunlight. PDmovie provides a reflective sticker to help the lidar focus at long distances and in harsh lighting conditions. We tried it, and it actually works, but it’s probably not the ideal shooting scenario for the lidar anyway.
The lidar actually does a very good job at minimal changes in focus. It’s really good at following a subject when it’s big in the frame, so it’s best for close-ups and mid-shots.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the LiveAir 3 Smart system is great for solo shooters and remote focus pulling. It packs plenty of power for a full day of work. It’s small and portable, and the lidar is a great addition. The only thing we’d ask for is a menu screen and a better app with an option to save [unlimited] custom lens presets.
The first all in one Lidar follow focus AF system
Pricing
As for pricing, the LiveAir 3 Smart basic kit sells for $470 and the full kit costs $600 on the company’s website (or Amazon and B&H).
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