The Z-Finder is an incredible little device that allows you to use the LCD screen on the back of a DSLR Camera (like the Canon 5DmkII or 7D) like a traditional viewfinder. The professional mounting plate mounts under your camera, allowing the z-finder to snap into place without any permanent modification to your camera. When purchased new from Zacuto, they are $395. Buy it for $280 and save over $100 plus shipping.
“With the convergence of DSLR filmmaking, there are many essential tools that are needed to give the correct form factor for video. When shooting video on a DSLR camera, you must use the LCD screen and you must use manual focus. The combination of a very small screen, manual focus, and razor thin shallow depth-of-field makes it very challenging to focus. When shooting in both outdoor and indoor settings the sunlight and glares make it nearly impossible to see the LCD. Lastly, holding the camera out in front of you so that you can focus on the screen makes the camera unstable and shaky. With any camera, you want to bring it close to the body for stability. The first essential item to help with these challenges is a DSLR optical viewfinder.”
