BVE 2016: The END - Genus show electronic ND control for Sony E-mount cameras

We saw a prototype last year of what Genus are now calling the END – it’s a combined EOS-mount to E-mount adapter and electronic ND filter that uses liquid crystals to change the effective ND from between three to ‘between eight and ten’ stops.

The form factor isn't final but this version is already fully functional. — The form factor isn’t final but this version is already fully functional.

The unit draws power from the camera, a Sony A7s in the video above, and currently incorporates a wireless control system that can be used to control iris, focus and ND strength. Genus are going to gather feedback from early users, but intend to change the form factor to make mounting the unit more streamlined and manual control more straightforward.

The bare unit. Other lens and camera mounts are possible in theory; Genus are going to gauge demand before committing to other combinations.

They’re aiming to have the next iteration ready to show in April at NAB and to ship shortly afterwards, aiming for a price of under $1,000 US.

Although the END unit adds bulk to a small camera like the A7s here, it's still a discreet package, even with Newsshooter contributor Simon Glass attached. — Although the END unit adds bulk to a small camera like the A7s here, it’s still a discreet package, even (especially?) with Newsshooter contributor Simon Glass attached.

By Elliot Smith

After working on the pictures and multimedia desks at The Guardian, Elliot now makes videos for production company Happen Digital and types words for Newsshooter.com.