Remote Control of a lens follow focus system has historically been a very costly solution, without many low-budget options to choose from. Redrock Micro is currently engineering a solution, and I’ve heard rumblings that Cinevate is considering such an offering. But neither are available for purchase at this time.

Now there is a new face on the block that is aiming squarely at the Indie market with a reasonably-priced wireless focus-pulling system. We’ve been watching Foveas for a few months now, and were pleased to hear that their recently announced wireless remote follow focus system is complete and orders will be shipping within 5-8 weeks.

The Foveas system relies on a 15mm rod-mounted servo motor that uses 32-pitch gears to turn your lens(es). Focus can be adjusted or pulled on the fly via simple round dial on a wireless transmitter. Foveas also offers a wireless monitor solution. Users of 35mm adapters are a primary candidate for such systems…giving a focus-puller or director off-camera control should make it a lot easier to nail a shot in fewer takes. Particularly considering the need for critical focus when shooting HD, and how hard it is to hit in the field sometimes. A wireless system such as this makes it a lot easier to bring in large 1:1 resolution monitors and locate them in a well-shaded and protected area. Another key market will be Steadicam and crane/boom operators.

Here’s what the Foveas system will cost you:
*Remote Follow Focus is 795 EUR (approx $1,060 USD), and for a limited time comes with 15mm rod support for monitor receiver and battery. (<- Edit -MJ)
*Servo Arm Motor (mounts to rods, turns lens gears) is 245 EUR (approx $326 USD).
*Wireless Monitor is 745 EUR (approx $993 USD).

Your best bargain bet for a complete system would be the package deal, it includes everything listed above for 1595 EUR (approx $2,127 USD).