Vivo's X300 Ultra is a powerful smartphone designed to be a versatile tool for both photography and videography enthusiasts. The device comes with a range of innovative features, including teleconverter lenses, a video cage, and a professional grip, making it a serious contender in the market.
The Photography Kit
The X300 Ultra's photography kit includes two teleconverter lenses, a case, a grip, and a video cage with smart handles. The new 400mm equivalent telephoto extender is a standout feature, offering an impressive zoom capability. Despite its size, the 400mm lens is only slightly longer than the previous 200mm lens, but it's significantly wider. This design choice ensures better balance when attached to the phone.
The 200mm lens has been improved, appearing smaller and more compact, which should enhance its usability. However, the 400mm lens may pose a challenge due to its weight, which could strain the camera mount. Vivo's partnership with Zeiss for the 400mm lens is a significant development, as it promises high-quality optics.
The camera grip has been enhanced with additional controls, including a video record button, scroll wheel, zoom lever, shutter button, function button, and flash button. This level of customization allows users to have more control over their photography.
The Pro Video Rig Kit
Vivo's collaboration with SmallRig results in the Pro Video Rig Kit, a cage system that transforms the X300 Ultra into a serious video camera. The cage is expandable, featuring multiple cold shoe mounts and quick-release ports, allowing for a wide range of accessories.
The kit includes two smart handles with Bluetooth-controlled shutter buttons and zoom levers, providing a stable grip and easy control. The cage can accommodate various accessories, such as an adjustable LED light, an active cooling fan, and external storage devices, microphones, and monitors.
Video Capabilities
The X300 Ultra's video capabilities are impressive, thanks to its native 10-bit Log support across all three cameras. Vivo's optimization results in smooth tonal roll-off and a film-like texture, ensuring that the video doesn't appear oversharpened or digital. The '4K Master Color Video' feature is a significant improvement over previous models.
Sound has also been enhanced, with the pro video app capable of focusing on the sound from the subject. However, the ability to connect external microphones is yet to be confirmed.
Conclusion
Vivo's X300 Ultra is a feature-rich smartphone that caters to both photographers and videographers. The photography kit and Pro Video Rig Kit offer a comprehensive solution for content creators, providing high-quality optics, customizable controls, and a range of accessories. The device's video capabilities, including 10-bit Log support and optimized color grading, make it a serious contender in the market.
While the price and release date are yet to be announced, the X300 Ultra is a promising addition to Vivo's lineup, offering a versatile and powerful tool for content creation.
