Summary Reader's Response Draft # 3

 According to Monlux(2020), the DJI Zenmuse X7 is a high-end camera system tailored for aerial cinematography and photography. Its standout features include a Super 35 sensor, which surpasses typical drone cameras, affording superior image quality and exceptional low-light performance. Monlux(2020) also states that the X7 further distinguishes itself with its support for interchangeable lenses, accommodating prime lenses with diverse focal lengths, granting users a wide spectrum of creative possibilities. Additionally, it can record in 6K CinemaDNG and 5.2K ProRes formats, granting filmmakers extensive post-processing flexibility due to its gimbal stabilization. Monolux(2020) further explained that the DJI Zenmuse X7 offers a 24-megapixel image and boasts an impressive 14 stops of dynamic range, ensuring vivid and detailed shots even in challenging lighting conditions. The DJI DL-Mount lens system is specially designed for the X7, ensuring lightweight yet robust lenses suitable for aerial cinematography. In conclusion, Even though the DJI Zenmuse X5S is a cheaper alternative and a predecessor to the DJI Zenmuse X7. I believe users prefer the DJI Zenmuse X7 due to its dynamic range, its versatility of interchangeable lenses, and its advanced gimbal stabilization.


The dynamic range is one of the most important factors that allows the DJI Zenmuse X7 to supersede the DJI Zenmuse XS5. According to OpenAi(2023), The dynamic range in the context of photography and imaging refers to the range of brightness that a device can capture. It is typically represented by the range of light levels that a camera sensor or film can capture and reproduce a single image. A higher dynamic range means the camera can capture a wider spectrum of tones, from the darkest shadow to the brightest light without losing details and extorting the important areas of the image taken. According to Dr. Mahmoud (2021), “ The dynamic range is considered one of the most important factors that determine the quality of the cinema camera.” He also states that the dynamic range reaches 13 exposure degrees. The dynamic range achieved by digital cinematographic cameras is much less than film, as it ranges between 4 and 5 exposure degrees. Therefore, the DJI Zenmuse X7 allows smoother photography and cinematic experience for users who tend to take pictures or videos in different lighting settings. Hence, this shows that the dynamic range is an important factor that makes the DJI Zenmuse X7 a better camera


Another factor that allows the DJI Zenmuse X7 to supersede the DJI Zenmuse X5S is its ability to interchange lenses. according to Photoguard(n.d), there are 6 types of lenses that will be used based on the environment and type of shot. This includes Fisheye, Wide angle, standard, short telephoto, medium telephoto, Super telephoto, and Macro. Being able to interchange lenses is an advantage for film enthusiasts as they are able to capture shots based on the different environments they have to work in. According to DJI (n.d.), the lenses are “made of lightweight carbon fiber and designed by world-leading optics teams, the four lenses have been embedded with advanced technologies crafted specifically for the X7’s high-end image sensor”. it also described that the DJI Zenmuse has a set of 4 interchangeable lenses with focal lengths of 16-50 mm and resolutions to up to 8K which gives more usability and wider angles compared to other consumer drones. This allows users to take better-quality images in different environments and different distances. Therefore, interchangeable lenses are a very important feature for cinematic and photographic enthusiasts.


The final factor that allows the DJI Zenmuse X7 to be superior to the DJI Zenmuse X5S would be its gimbal stabilization. According to Frey (2020), he explained that “ Gimbals are support systems with sophisticated motion detecting systems”. This implies that the gimbal will reduce the camera’s movements and vibration allowing a  smooth photograph or video to be captured. He also mentioned that the Gimbal utilizes calibrated electronic motors and intelligent sensors to automatically compensate for any movement the computer detects across all three axes. According to OpenAi(2017), both DJI Zenmuse X7 and DJI Zenmuse X5S have an almost similar gimbal Stabilizer. The gimbal stabilizer for the DJI Zenmuse X7 has far more features and functions which allows for smoother and higher quality image capturing. Therefore, this function allows a better user experience for both photogenic and cinematic users. 


Conversely, according to the DJI (n.d.), the cost of the DJI Zenmuse X7 ranges from USD$2,699 - USD$2,899 while the DJI Zenmuse X5S ranges from USD$1,899 - USD$2,099. The price gap is close to USD$1,000. Comparing both the DJI Zenmuse X7 and the DJI Zenmuse X5S in terms of software and technical specifications there is a significant upgrade. Also, according to Heli Guy(2017), there are significant improvements in the visual and audio capabilities of the DJI Zenmuse X7 compared to the DJI Zenmuse X5S justifying the price increase.


In Conclusion, Both cameras have amazing qualities that can benefit drone pilots. However, the DJI Zenmuse X7 is an outstanding product for filmmaking and is a huge advancement of its predecessors. Therefore, the DJI Zenmuse X7 is a better option for users who indulge in cinematic and aerography shots. Based on the better upgrades of the Dynamic range, the interchangeable lenses, and the gimbal stabilizer the DJI Zenmuse X7 is a far better option in comparison to the DJI Zenmuse X5S.


Reference List :

 RAJESH, R. J., & KAVITHA, P. (2016, January 11). IEEE Xplore | IEEE Journals & Magazine | IEEE. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/7375580/authors#authors. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/7876843/ 


Monlux, C. (2020, June 10). Review: DJI Zenmuse X7 is a robust aerial cinema camera system. Videomaker. https://www.videomaker.com/article/r02/19358-review-dji-zenmuse-x7-is-a-robust-aerial-cinema-camera-system/ 

Esenko, L. (2020, April 26). DJI Zenmuse X7 - a photographer’s first impressions • Luka Esenko. Luka Esenko. https://lukaesenko.com/dji-zenmuse-x7-a-photographers-first-impressions/ 

Frey, T. D. (2020, August 11). Drone gimbals explained: How they work. tomstechtime. https://www.tomstechtime.com/post/drone-gimbals-explained-how-they-work 

DJI Zenmuse X7 vs Zenmuse X5s vs Zenmuse X4s. heliguy. (2017, October 17). https://www.heliguy.com/blogs/posts/dji-zenmuse-x7-vs-zenmuse-x5s-vs-zenmuse-x4s 

Buy Zenmuse X7 (Lens excluded) - DJI store. Buy Zenmuse X7 (Lens Excluded) - DJI Store. (n.d.). https://store.dji.com/sg/product/zenmuse-x7-lens-excluded?vid=33461+. 

Saleh Ahmed, M. (2022, September 1). The reality of using DGO Technology (dual ‑ gain output) with Super 35mm CMOS sensor in modern cinema cameras within the labor market in the Arab Republic of Egypt. مجلة العمارة و الفنون و العلوم الإنسانية. https://mjaf.journals.ekb.eg/article_149985.html?lang=en 

Chatgpt. ChatGPT. (n.d.). https://openai.com/chatgpt 

Each type of camera lens explained: Photoguard. photoGuard camera insurance. (n.d.). https://www.photoguard.co.uk/camera-lens-guide 


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