PETALING JAYA, May 2 — A Malaysian in New York is taking the iPhone 6 and 6S to new heights by adding a new dimension to them — videography.
Brandon Hoe, a New York-based professional filmmaker, has come up with the Helium Core and Helium Core+ add-on that can turn iPhone users into professional mobile videographers.
This is done by fitting the Helium Core’s aluminium chassis over the iPhone 6 and 6S, and includes 16 other accessories, while the Helium Core+ has 17.
The chassis allows users to mount their device creatively — on a tripod, gimbal, drone, car mount, articulating arm, fig rig, slider, jib, shoulder rig, motorcycle, helmet.
Speaking to Malay Mail, Hoe related how he often found the size and weight of his professional gear, such as his cameras, lenses and lights, frustrating.
“Eventually I realised more of my shots were being taken with the iPhone, rather than my gear. So I began to look into how I could enhance its videography capabilities,” he said.
Despite the iPhone’s compact size, mobility, discreet nature and excellent camera sensing, Brandon discovered several drawbacks.
One limitation was its built-in camera which meant he could not swap lenses, add accessories or mount it.
Its small size also counted against it because the phone could become uncomfortable to use as a camera over extended periods of time.
“When I realised there were no other types of accessories in the market that could tap into the iPhone’s potential, I began to draw up plans that eventually led to the Helium Core,” he said.
The Helium Core was in a kickstarter funding drive earlier this year which netted US$18,389 (RM71,965) of the targeted US$30,000 (RM 117,405).
Hoe said the 6/6S size Helium Core was priced at US$93 (RM363) and the Helium Core+ for the 6/6S Plus at US$99 (RM387).
He said shipment was likely to begin in August once funding for the project was completed by May 27.
