The integration of cameras in smartphones and tablets has seen many become accustomed to the oversized viewfinder provided by such mobile devices. But such devices can't compete with dedicated DSLRs or mirrorless cameras when it comes to image quality and features, which is why Vancouver-based Camlet Products and New York-based IC Art NY have created the Camlet Mount to connect a mobile device to your camera.
The mount, which is the subject of a crowdfunding campaign, connects to any standard camera hot shoe. Once the mobile device is strapped in, you can not only compose shots, but also interact with the controls on your camera through its touchscreen. Captured images can be saved to both the camera and the mobile device, and edited right on your phone or tablet. Images can then be shared to places like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, similar to the type of experience you get when using an Eye-Fi card, or one of Samsung’s connected cameras.
For Android devices, the Camlet Mount can connect in the same way you might attach an external display to your camera, using a supplied USB-OTG connection cable, which should be compatible with most Canon and Nikon DSLR’s made in the past six years. If your camera has built-in Wi-Fi, then users can also attach their devices wirelessly. This is a necessity for iOS devices, which don't allow wired connections. The current mount only takes tablets up to 8-in in size, with the team working on an add-on that will take larger tablets, such as the iPad Air.
The mobile device's screen can be used as just a larger viewfinder, or can add a new layer of functionality to your camera depending on how you position it. For instance, you can angle the display upward so you can shoot video at a lower angle without having to contort your body into an interesting crouched position in order to do so. Your phone or tablet can also be positioned facing forward, so you can see yourself when shooting a video or taking a photo of yourself. The Camlet team hasn't created its own app, but lists support with various third party apps, including those from Sony, Fujifilm, Olympus, Samsung, Panasonic, Canon and Nikon.
When you’re done, Camlet folds down flat against the back of your camera so you can easily tote it around to your next location without adding an extra bag or a considerable amount of bulk.
Camlet is currently the subject of a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for the first run of devices. The first few tiers of mounts are already sold out, but you can still score one of the mounts from the first shipment for a pledge of US$59. The first mounts are expected to ship in November 2015, if all goes to plan.
The mount can be seen in action in the video below.
Source: Camlet Mount