Since Fotodiox introduced their ND Throttle adapter for mirrorless cameras, a really neat adapter with integrated variable ND filter behind the lens, shooters have been asking for a version, which would allow for electronic communication between the camera and the lens so users can control AF and aperture control.
The ND Throttle is a really interesting concept as it mimic “built-in” ND’s which naturally are located behind the lens thus minimizing flares, reflections and other unwanted artefacts, sometimes present with front ND filters. Just recently, Fotodiox have updated their ND Throttle adapter to include a new “Smart” version of the adapter for Canon EF and EF-S lenses to Sony E mount bodies allowing for electronic aperture control and Autofocus support of such lenses on Sony NEX and other E-mont cameras.
The Variable ND’s control ring is geared for either manual control, or it’ll mesh with a follow focus for even more control options. Package includes a lens mounting yoke to support longer Canon lenses with a rail system.
You can see the video below for more details on the ND Throttle system (note the video below is for the older, “dumb” non-electronic version of this adapter, but it gives you a good idea of what this adapter can do).
Features:
- Premium Grade Fotodiox “Pro” Adapter
- Infinity Focus Guaranteed
- Built-In 10-Stop Variable ND Filter ND2 – ND1000 (1 – 10 Stops)
- Full Communication on Most Lenses Allowing Automatic Focus and Control from Camera
- All-Metal Design; Brass with Stainless Steel Finish
- Removable Tripod Mount
- 2 Year Manufacturer Warranty
The geared dial on the adapter is a built-in 10-stop variable ND filter which allows you to control the amount of light coming in from the lens with a quick twist of the dial. This is great for video as you are able to shoot in bright daylight with a shallow depth of field, also allows you to move from bright to dim locations and adjust the light on the fly via the adapter. The gearing on this adapter and the included lens yoke make it a great pairing with a follow focus and rail system .
Compatible Cameras
Sony Alpha E-mount Cameras (Including, but not limited to):
- Sony Alpha α3000, α5000, α6000, α3500, α5100, αQX1, Sony PXW-FS7 and Sony PXW-FS5
- Sony NEX-3, NEX-5, NEX-C3, NEX-5N, NEX-7, NEX-F3, NEX-5R, ,NEX-6
- Sony NEX-VG10, NEX-VG20, NEX-VG30, NEX-VG900, NEX-FS100, NEX-FS700, NEX-EA50
Although this adapter would technically mount on any E-mount Sony camera, for full-frame Sony A7s, A7RII owners out there it is worth to note that you may see a slight vignette unless used in APS-C crop mode. However, for Super 35 chip cameras like the Sony FS5 and FS7 this adapter should work just fine and be a cost effective and compact solutions for run’n gun situations.
The Fotodiox Vizelex ND Throttle “Smart” Adapter for Canon EF/EF-S to Sony E mount is available in limited quantities and retails for $199.95 directly from Fotodiox.
Specifications:
| Adapter Type | Vizelex ND Throttle Auto Adapter – Lens Mount Adapter with Built-In Variable ND Filter (ND2-ND1000) AND Full Automated Functions |
| Lens Mount | Canon EOS EF/EF-s Lenses |
| Camera Mount | Sony NEX APS-C E-Mount Cameras |
| Infinity Focus | Yes |
| Variable Density Range | ND2 – ND1000 (1 – 10 stops) |
| Metering | Automatic |
| Material of Construction | Brass with Stainless Steel Finish |
| Tripod Mount | Yes – Removeable |
| Manufacture | Fotodiox Inc. |
| Warranty | 24 Months |
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Very interesting piece of equipment. But I disagree, shallow depth of field is not cinematic it is just shallow depth of field. And it is over used and miss used quite a lot.
There is a related problem, though. People use the complaint about overuse of shallow DoF to justify not ever needing/using shallow DoF, which, to me, is a much bigger mistake.
I totally disagree with you! Not using shallow DoF is not a problem or a mistake. And I know no one, have met no one or talked to anyone that uses this comment as justification for anything.
Shallow depth of field is only one of the filmic devices. Like all devices, use sparingly. Then once you use it, will be very powerful. There are many 35 mm or larger formats award winning films using deep depth of field instead of shallow. Most fine super 16 film all used deep focus. Hitchcock and Eisenstein used deep focus. They were film masters.
Your comment implies that this is only used for shallow dof, consider the a7s that can only use slog2 @ iso 3200, this is an ideal solution.
My comment implies nothing. When I read the original article there was a line stating shallow depth of field makes your footage look cinematic. It seems to be missing now. That is what it is in reference to. I see that statement a lot and and disagree and wish people would stop saying that.