iPhone iPhone

Singapore

How To: Low-light photography, videography on an iPhone

Take out your lightsabers and record Star Wars-themed content!

Published

on

Gone are the days where our smartphones struggle from shooting when there’s a lack of proper lighting. Nowadays, most smartphones — flagships specifically — can record amazing videos and stunning photos in low-light conditions.

For instance, FightSaber Singapore, a premier Lucasfilm-recognised lightsaber performance organization recorded a Star-Wars themed video using only the iPhone 12 Pro Max. FightSaber Singapore used lightsabers from SaberMach, Singapore’s first and only professional combat saber company, to highlight NeoPixel blades that astonishingly lit up the room.

 

Nonetheless, taking gorgeous stills and videos in low-light situations is now possible using just your smartphone. Fret not, you don’t need to be a pro; you just need to follow simple tricks.

Tips and tricks

First, make sure to turn on High-Efficiency Image File Format before you start shooting. Next, adjust HDR (high dynamic range) on your camera settings which will help you capture vibrant stills in high-contrast situations. If you plan on capturing light streaks, set your settings to 4K with 24 FPS. For smooth movements, adjust it to 4K with 60 FPS.

When you start shooting, lock the exposure and maintain auto-focus. Tap the spot on your screen that you want to adjust. On iPhone, you can also press and hold on the screen until you see AE/AF lock to keep the focus and exposure in the same spot.

Moreover, you can create a quick whip zoom effect while recording by tapping on the individual lenses. No need for post-production!

On a non-technical tip, don’t forget about varying your camera angles. Low-angle shots tend to add drama while high-angle shots provide an overview of the scene.


SMARTPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY SERIES

Smartphone photography 101: Foreground element

Smartphone photography 101: How to take slice of life photos

Smartphone photography 101: Capturing festivities

Smartphone photography 101: Taking flat lays

Singapore

Xiaomi Singapore expands lineup of smart washing machines

With different capacities and functions to suit modern household needs

Published

on

Xiaomi has expanded its range of smart washing machines in Singapore. These laundry offerings come with different capabilities and functions to suit modern household needs.

The new products include the Mijia Front Load Washer 8kg, Mijia Front Load Washer Dryer 10.5kg, and Mijia Front Load Washer Dryer 9kg.

Both of the Mijia washer-dryer combos are designed for superior cleaning and drying performance.

An ultra-slim and extra large drum offers more tumbling space and strong centrifugal force for fast and efficient drying.

Xiaomi’s Power Wash technology creates deep and effective cleaning, with a dedicated Steam function to remove up to 99.99% of bacteria, viruses, and mites.

There are over 30 programs to choose from on the user-friendly touch control panel, including Baby Care and Underwear. Users can also connect via the Xiaomi Home app for extra care on specific materials.

In addition, both come with a fast 59-minute wash-and-dry cycle, 24-hour delay timer, and function to add clothes during a mid-cycle, further enhancing convenience.

Meanwhile, the ultra-slim Mijia Front Load Washer 8kg is big on cleaning capabilities and energy efficiency.

It is similarly equipped with Power Wash technology and Steam cleaning functions to remove stubborn stains and protect everyone’s health.

With a 15-min super fast Quick Wash, its load-sensing system automatically detects laundry weight to optimize water volume and cycle time, improving energy efficiency.

Price, availability

Depending on the model, the latest Xiaomi Mijia washing machines are available on mi.com, Xiaomi Stores, Lazada, and Shopee.

Pricing are as follows:

  • Mijia Front Load Washer 8kg: SG$ 349
  • Mijia Front Load Washer Dryer 10.5kg: SG$ 699
  • Mijia Front Load Washer Dryer 9kg: SG$ 599
Continue Reading

Cameras

Sony announces new FX5 full-frame camera

Newly-developed sensor, Open Gate recording, more enhanced capabilities

Published

on

Sony has launched the new FX5 full-frame camera in its Cinema Line series with enhanced capabilities.

The camera is equipped with a newly-developed fully stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor and the latest high-speed BIONZ XR2 image processing engine, which includes a dedicated AI processing unit.

When shooting in S-Log3, the camera achieves 15+ stops of dynamic range. The broad latitude and low-noise performance enable seamless roll-off from highlights to shadows and natural texture reproduction, even in high-contrast scenes.

Three Base ISOs of ISO 800, ISO 4000, and ISO 12800 enable low-noise image expression under a wide range of conditions.

Moreover, Dual Gain Shooting function, supported for the first time in the FX series, maximizes the performance of the image sensor to enable smooth gradation reproduction with even wider latitude, while effectively reducing noise without compromising shadow detail.

For the first time in the Cinema Line FX series, the FX5 supports Open Gate shooting, as well as in-camera recording in X-OCN, Sony’s proprietary RAW format.

This includes a variety of scan modes like 17:9, 16:9, and super 35mm. This allows for flexible angle-of-view selection for the user’s creative intent.

The camera is capable of shooting in 5K at up to 60 frames per second, in 4K up to 120 frames per second and in FHD up to 240 frames per second.

These features bring together the Cinema Line look and operability designed to meet the needs of production environments in a compact, highly portable body.

The Sony FX5 will also include two new optional accessories: a detachable OLED viewfinder and an XLR Handle that enables recording in-camera at up to 96 kHz, 32-bit float.

The camera system incorporates expertise that Sony has cultivated through the development of Cinema Line cameras, which have earned high praise from cinematographers and video creators around the world.

Price, availability

The ILME-FX5 with XLR Handle Unit (SG$ 7,199) and ILME-FX5B Body Only (SG$ 6,399) will be available for pre-order until August 9.

The DVF-EL1 OLED Detachable Viewfinder (SG$ 899) and VMC-BNCU1 Timecode Adapter Cable (SG$ 129) will be available after Mid-August.

Meanwhile, the XLR-H2 XLR Handle (SG$ 1,099) will be available by special order.

On July 28, the FX5 will also be on display atThe Arts House At The Old Parliament from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., giving creators the chance to experience it for the first time.

Continue Reading

Singapore

Sony launches IER-M500 in-ear monitors

For live performers

Published

on

Sony has officially expanded its professional audio lineup with the debut of the Sony IER-M500 in-ear monitors.

These new stage-ready monitors target a specific niche of live performers — they’re built for amateur musicians, emerging artists, and professional monitor engineers.

The launch fills a critical gap in Sony’s professional audio ecosystem.

Currently, the company covers recording with its microphones and mixing with headphones like the MDR-M1. Now, Sony supports live stage monitoring with this new affordable option.

The Sony IER-M500 will be available in Singapore by August for SG$ 139. Available colors are Red, White, and Black.

Stage-tuned audio designed by experts

Sony engineered the IER-M500 monitors to handle the harsh, loud environments of live concerts.

The company collaborated closely with top industry professionals during development. This includes veteran tour monitor engineer Noel Edwards.

Edwards noted that the sound quality of the universal-fit IER-M500 comes incredibly close to expensive custom-molded monitors.

The monitors feature a fully sealed internal structure. This design isolates your ears by blocking out loud stage noise.

Consequently, the high passive isolation protects your hearing during long sets. Inside, a dynamic driver pairs with a large acoustic chamber.

This combination produces deep, controlled bass frequencies. At the same time, the optimized internal layout refines high-frequency reproduction.

The system is also fully high-resolution audio compatible. Artists can easily hear every cue, harmony, and subtle detail on stage.

Secure fit, durable build

Comfort is highly critical during extended live performances. Sony addresses this by using original fitting supporters alongside flexible ear hangers and clips.

These additions ensure the monitors stay locked in place while you move. The package includes four sizes of noise-isolating earpieces.

These earpieces utilize a thin polyurethane wall to maximize seal and wearability.

Furthermore, the design easily stands up to the physical demands of touring. The housing resists moisture, splashes, and sweat.

Performers can move freely without worrying about water damage. The monitors also feature a detachable 1.6-meter cable. This cable is thick and durable, built specifically to handle frequent plugging and unplugging.

Continue Reading

Trending