THE DJI Ronin 4D Review: ALMOST a camera revolution

EDIT Feb 2022: ProRes raw has had to be dropped, whether permanently or temporarily we don’t know. DJI are adding ProRes Raw 4444 XQ via firmware soon.

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This review has taken a LOT of time to make, which is the same story for most of my reviews really! I start off trying to keep them simple but question after question pops up whilst making them which makes things more and more complicated, more tests, more emails to the manufacturers, and more time!

This one was particularly complicated as a lot of things weren’t quite right as it is pre-production and it’s also the most featured packed camera system I’ve used; there was just so much to go through!

I hope you enjoy it, you have no idea how happy I am to have finally finished it. Sadly, no rest for me as my video backlog is bigger than ever!

Thanks to Sarah Seal for the shots of me with the Ronin 4D in my parent's garden and of course to my beloved cats for being amazing. Sorry Percy, somehow you missed this one…next time I promise!

If you use my affiliate link thank you! They help get the cats fed whilst making these reviews when I need to be working!

[philipbloom]

Update Feb 2022: ProRes raw has had to be dropped, whether permanently or temporarily we don’t know. DJI are adding ProRes Raw 4444 XQ via firmware soon. The reasons why are most likely connected to what I talked about in this video.

[geraldundone]

Fabulous video, Philip. Extremely informative and much appreciated! 🤓🙏

[AbroadinJapan]

The definitive Ronin 4D review is here 🍿
Watching your masterfully produced reviews has honestly altered my concept of time. 37mins has never gone so bloody fast!
Very exciting camera - DJI have outdone themselves this time, though I think I’d struggle with the form factor. Will stick with the gimbal....for now.

[AlexiBexi]

this is madness. I love it. and thank you for sharing little details, like your lenses within the shots. incredible interesting so see how they perform.

[mr.shutterz]

It's simply so enjoyable watching these reviews. I have no intention of buying this, but it feels like I'm watching a short film. I watch others on YT of course, but I'm always left feeling slightly agitated or mislead in some way - not by everyone, but most. Philip, don't ever change mate, you have a very unique and consistent ability to deliver the information in such a way it leaves us all feeling very.... positive, entertained and informed!

[MarcoAries]

As someone with back injuries myself, thank you for addressing weight and ergonomics in relation to that!

[CallMeChato]

I can't think of anyone else who makes the sponsored pitch portion of their video as compelling as the rest. You leave no stone unturned.

[TheSeekingknow]

This was not a review. This was a DOCUMENTARY!
You make me want to be a photographer / videographer.
Also the music with your cool voice made it all so beautiful to experience.

[NickPerkiss]

By far the best video about the 4D. I don't think anyone but you Philip takes the time to dive into actually showing and telling about features.

[KenFlanagan]

Simply one of the best reviews of any piece of equipment I have seen. The high quality of this channel has been exceeded not least because of the incredible innovation that you have to get your head around when confronting the 4D's capabilities, possibilities and limitations. I'm not sure but I think Mr Bloom even avoided saying game changer. Thank you. The kind of video that restores our faith in humanities innovation and critical appreciation.

[selfscience]

The final setup whit the thing wrapped on your waist is the way this will shine. Thank you for your dedication.

[howiesk]

This isn't just a review. It's a work of art.

[YllaStar]

Incredible layers of production, a vast wealth of knowledge, this one is a keeper, a reference point to all manners, i.e product review, skilled set ups, real field studies, anacdotal cats, lots of cats.
Sarah did a truly professional job too.
Well done, to the pair of you.
A new subscriber, just about to go down this rabbit hole.
Time to clear my desk.

I got pretty much the same back injury, try a book called the mckenzie method, it change my life. Thanks for this wonderfull video, and all the others too!

[slapsoldonit]

By far the best review for this device on YT. Honest and informative. Thx for putting the work in.

[NeilEvery]

Thank you Philip for once again putting out a video with exceptional detail, creativity and authenticity. I really appreciate the time and effort you put into your content. Also, I feel your back pain. I destroyed mine as an AC hauling massive Panaflex gear on and off camera truck tailgates. There's a reason they called the 3:1 zoom "The Antichrist"... It destroyed many an ACs spine before even getting to the mental focus side of things (for some reason it was always that lens they insisted on using at 120fps capturing stunt people diving from explosions!)

[JustinPandelo]

Brilliant review man. Hope you continue on the mend & get some relief soon. Wishing you a speedy recovery Philip.

[GonePhshing]

My first thought when you mentioned the weight in the intro was whether you'd try it with a vest or similar, so the fact that you closed with that was just perfect.

While it's not something I'd ever look to own, it's a great first crack at a very unique product for DJI. Very keen to see what they come up with in this space in the future.

[nickazg]

Man, I love your reviews! Not only because you take us on a journey with your filmmaking but you always bring a perspective and attention to detail nobody else has. Literally all other reviews are just cut copy, rince and repeat (except mr undone) . Worth the wait.

[eclecticguy]

Almost nothing that you review is something I can afford or justify buying. But I very much enjoy your cinematic in depth look at what is possible for future filmmakers. Thank you for all your hard work.