A Hidden Relic from the Past – Video

Only 3 minutes reading time.

First Test Video – Lessons Learned

This is my very first test video, meant to showcase how I discover interesting spots on my e-mountain bike, how the surroundings look, and how I capture them. Things didn’t go exactly as planned—maybe nerves, forgetfulness, or a mix of both—but that’s all part of the learning process. Over time, I’m sure it’ll improve – I hope 🙂

For this test, I used an Olympus E-M10 Mark III with the Kamlan 15mm f/2.0, set to hyperfocal distance (just before the 3m mark) at f/5.6. The camera was in video mode (PASM dial), recording in 4K 25P with a 1/50s shutter speed (following the rule of doubling the frame rate). Auto ISO was capped at 6400.

Challenges & Observations

• 4K Recording Setup: The camera only allows 4K recording if the PASM dial is set to the camera icon. From there, you must manually select 4K in the menu. If you later switch the dial (e.g., to “P”), pressing the record button will default to Full HD instead of 4K.
• Manual Lens Stabilization: When using a manual lens, you must set the focal length for stabilization. This is done via the Super Control Panel → Stabilization → Info → Set Focal Length.
• Shutter Speed Rule: Always double the frame rate (e.g., 25P → 1/50s). I also set the video bitrate to Super Fine for maximum quality.

Finally, I mounted the camera on an old Ulanzi M rig/cage, originally designed for smartphones but versatile enough to hold other cameras.

This is just the beginning—I’ll refine things as I go!

Since I’m only making short videos or clips, I haven’t encountered any real technical issues. Olympus cameras allow up to 30 minutes of recording, but my videos will never be that long. The only thing I noticed is a slight ‘wobble’ in the footage—something I’ve seen before with small action cameras. It’s visible at the start of the video and briefly near the bunker’s rear window. It’s not really disturbing, and you might not even notice it, but I still need to figure out what causes it.

Possible causes:

• Stabilization: Only sensor-shift is active, no electronic stabilization. The 15mm field of view is set—so this should be fine.
• Rolling shutter: A faster shutter speed (e.g., 1/100s) might help. Needs testing.

Ulanzi M Rig a Compact & Versatile Camera Rig

Durable & Portable
A solid metal, U-shaped rig designed for smartphones, action cameras, and small cameras like the Olympus E-M10/E-PL9. Compact and easy to carry in a bag or backpack.

Mounting & Customization
Features multiple 1/4″ and 3/8″ threads, cold shoe mounts, and supports add-ons like microphones, lights, and sound recorders.

DIY & Upgrades
Pipe insulation can serve as budget-friendly side handles (blocks side mounts). A top handle is a useful upgrade for better control and portability. I’d recommend adding a side handle—I ordered one myself. It can be mounted on either side, improves grip and portability, and adds minimal weight. A separate metal/wood handle can be found as cheap as €17 on AliExpress :

Pricing
The Ulanzi M Rig/Cage costs between €25–€50, with fluctuating prices on AliExpress, Amazon, and eBay. Eastern European sellers may charge more—shop around for the best deal!

And finally the video itself :

The pictures on La Gallerie :

Video Software : ShotCut 25.01.25

Credits Soundtrack:

Title:
The Inspiration by Keys of Moon
URL:
https://www.chosic.com/download-audio/27962/
Credits:
The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon
Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/