A great thing about the RED KOMODO is that it is so modifiable. The simple box shape just lends itself to being improved with various accessories.
Unfortunately, it means that if you want to maximize the potential of the KOMODO you’ll pretty much have to pick up some extra components.
If you just picked up your own KOMODO or are building your wishlist and want to get off to the right start you’ll want a list of core accessories to go along with it.
For that we have the guys at LensProToGo who have six must-have accessories to elevate the experience of your RED cinema camera.
1. Cage/Baseplate System
The cube shape of the RED KOMODO makes it a prime candidate for adding a cage or baseplate system.
The one thing that may cause an issue is the top display makes it tough for top plates and handles to be mounted.
Getting the proper cage and components to work with the KOMODO and mount accessories is key. They are using the Wooden Camera Top Mount Kit along with the Wooden Camera Unified DSLR Cage.
Image Credit: Wooden Camera
2. Top and Side Handles
Now that you have a cage, the next step is to add a top and side handle. RED’s own Outrigger Side Handle is great and attaches to the top in a way that keeps the display clear. There are some accessory mounting points. The handle does also have a record button to make it easier.
Image Credit: RED
The previously mentioned top mount kit comes with a top handle and some extra mounting points. This handle is adjustable and is designed to leave clearance for the screen.
There are also options for top rails if you were doing a follow focus or other accessories. A key piece is a tilting monitor mount at the top.
3. Monitor
While there is a display on the top of the camera it won’t cut it for proper monitoring. Picking up a true monitor is the only move and the SmallHD Indie 7 is a great pick.
Besides being a great monitor on its own it is also available in a kit that allows for camera control via the monitor’s touchscreen. Everything is better to use with this setup.
Image Credit: SmallHD
4. KOMODO Expander Module
Another RED-made accessory is the Expander Module. It is a smaller piece that adds timecode, Genlock, GPI, and LEMO control ports. It’s nice but there is a wish for more types of outputs.
Besides some nice connections, a big advantage of the module is that it serves as a neat camera riser to give it a bit more clearance. If you are using larger cinema lenses this will likely be mandatory. Plus, it has some extra mounting points.
Image Credit: RED
5. Mount Adapter with Drop-In ND Filter
Something missing from the RED KOMODO compared to other cinema cameras is a built-in ND filter system. You can almost make up for it (if you are using Canon EF-mount glass) by picking up the Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R with Drop-In Variable ND Filter.
Image Credit: Canon
This adapter gives you a variable ND filter behind the lens which allows you to swap out lenses without needing to keep moving around your ND filters.
6. Battery Slide
The KOMODO uses two Canon BP-series battery packs, which is fine. However, if you want more reliable power you will want to use some industry-standard V-mount or Gold-mount battery packs.
The Wooden Camera Battery Slide allows you to adapt these battery packs to the KOMODO. There are adjustments if you need to tweak it for your specific battery.
Image Credit: Wooden Camera
Need a recommendation for the battery? They use the Anton Bauer Titon Micro packs. It’ll run for longer than two BP-series packs.
Anything you think is missing from this list?
[source: LensProToGo]
Order Links:
- RED KOMODO 6K Cinema Camera (B&H)
- SmallHD Indie 7 RED RCP2 Monitor Kit (B&H)
- RED KOMODO Outrigger Handle (B&H)
- Wooden Camera Complete Top Mount Kit for KOMODO (B&H, Amazon)
- Wooden Camera Battery Slide for KOMODO (B&H, Amazon)
- Canon Drop-In Filter Mount Adapter EF-EOS R with Variable ND Filter (B&H, Amazon)
- Wooden Camera Unified DSLR Cage (Small) (B&H)
- RED KOMODO Expander Module (B&H)
- Anton/Bauer Titon Micro 90 V-Mount Battery (B&H, Amazon)
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate partner and participant in B&H and Adorama Affiliate programmes, we earn a small comission from each purchase made through the affiliate links listed above at no additional cost to you.
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