Cool Things Collection

Category: Watch

  • Exploring lesser-known films in indie cinema

    Exploring lesser-known films in indie cinema

    Indie films offer fresh perspectives and unique storytelling, attracting viewers who seek hidden gems. Online communities play a crucial role in facilitating the discovery of these films, allowing enthusiasts to share recommendations and celebrate lesser-known cinematic works.

    In recent years, the exploration of indie films has gained significant traction, primarily driven by active online communities. These platforms have become a haven for film enthusiasts eager to unearth lesser-known titles that offer unique narratives and artistic visions. As mainstream releases often dominate the spotlight, indie films provide an alternative route for those craving originality and authenticity. Enthusiasts who explore these cinematic treasures find themselves immersed in stories that challenge conventions and broaden perspectives.

    Discovering unique cinematic experiences

    Indie films captivate audiences yearning for something beyond the usual blockbuster fare. These films often present unconventional storylines, innovative cinematography, and raw emotions that resonate deeply with viewers. The appeal lies not only in the originality of content but also in the intimate viewing experience they provide. By engaging with such films, you open yourself to narratives that might otherwise remain hidden beneath the glitz of mainstream cinema.

    The process of discovering these films is often as rewarding as watching them. Enthusiasts enjoy finding a film that speaks to them on a personal level, forging a connection that transcends traditional entertainment. This sense of discovery is further amplified when shared within online communities where like-minded individuals gather to discuss their finds. As you participate in these discussions, your appreciation for the craft behind indie films deepens, enriching your cinematic journey.

    Online platforms for film discussions

    Social networking sites have revolutionised the way we discover and discuss movies. Platforms dedicated to film enthusiasts allow users to share recommendations, rate films, and engage in lively debates about their merits. These virtual spaces foster a sense of community where members can express their views on lesser-known films, bringing attention to works that might otherwise go unnoticed.

    By participating in these online conversations, you gain access to a variety of film suggestions curated by fellow enthusiasts who share your passion. This collaborative effort enhances your movie-watching experience by introducing you to diverse perspectives and genres you might not have explored independently. As you interact with these communities, you become part of a movement that supports independent filmmakers and celebrates their contributions to the art form.

    Curating personal watchlists

    Curating personal watchlists is an essential practice for anyone eager to explore the world of indie cinema fully. These lists serve as tailored guides that help you keep track of intriguing titles recommended by others or discovered during your own explorations. By meticulously maintaining a watchlist, you ensure that no captivating story slips through the cracks.

    Your watchlist becomes a dynamic tool that evolves as you engage with various film communities and encounter new recommendations. It reflects your evolving taste in cinema and provides a roadmap for your viewing journey. Tracking watchlists allows you to balance familiar favourites with adventurous selections, creating an eclectic mix that enriches your appreciation for diverse storytelling.

    Supporting independent filmmakers

    Engaging with online communities dedicated to indie films offers more than just personal enrichment—it actively supports independent filmmakers striving to bring their visions to life. By generating interest and exposure through discussions around lesser-known works, these platforms can lead to increased viewership and critical recognition.

    As part of this collective effort, you contribute to a thriving ecosystem where small productions receive the attention they deserve. Your participation helps create opportunities for filmmakers who rely on grassroots support rather than massive marketing campaigns to reach their audience. In turn, this fosters an environment where creativity thrives, paving the way for future generations of storytellers ready to captivate audiences worldwide.

  • Campervan Conversions: Turning Your Van into a Home on Wheels

    Campervan Conversions: Turning Your Van into a Home on Wheels

    If you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the open road, exploring new destinations, and having the freedom to go wherever your heart desires, then campervan conversions might just be the perfect solution for you.

    From the basics of choosing the right van to the creative interior design ideas, we’ll cover everything you need to know to embark on your campervan adventure.

     

    Choosing the Right Van

    Size Matters

    The first step in any campervan conversion Scotland project is selecting the right van. You’ll need to consider the size, make, and model that best suits your needs and budget. Larger vans like the Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit offer more space but can be less fuel-efficient. Smaller vans like the Volkswagen Transporter or Nissan NV200 are nimble and easier to park but come with limited space. It’s all about finding the right balance for your lifestyle.

    Age and Condition

    When it comes to choosing a van, age and condition matter. You can purchase a new van, but it might come with a hefty price tag. Alternatively, you can opt for a used van that’s in good condition, but be sure to have it thoroughly inspected by a mechanic before making the purchase. Remember, the goal is to create a reliable home on wheels.

    Planning Your Layout

    The Functional Kitchen

    One of the most exciting aspects of campervan conversions is designing your kitchen. Keep it simple with a portable stove and a compact sink. Consider using a foldable table to maximize space when not cooking. Don’t forget to install ample storage for utensils, cookware, and groceries.

    Sleeping Quarters

    Comfortable sleeping arrangements are a must. Many campervan enthusiasts opt for a foldable bed or a convertible seating area that doubles as a bed. Investing in a good mattress and blackout curtains will ensure a good night’s sleep during your adventures.

    Storage Solutions

    In a campervan, space is a premium commodity. Get creative with your storage solutions. Use under-bed storage, overhead cabinets, and magnetic racks to keep things organized. Think vertically to make the most of your limited space.

    Electrical and Plumbing

    Powering Up

    To run appliances and charge your devices, you’ll need an electrical system. Installing a solar panel on the roof can harness the power of the sun, while a leisure battery stores energy for use at night. This eco-friendly setup keeps you self-sufficient even when off the grid.

    Water Supply

    For cooking and cleaning, you’ll require a water supply. Campervan conversions commonly include a freshwater tank with a faucet and a wastewater tank for easy disposal. Ensure that your plumbing system is well-designed to avoid leaks and maximize space efficiency.

    Interior Design Ideas

    Cozy Vibes

    Transform your campervan into a cosy haven with soft cushions, warm blankets, and decorative pillows. Opt for a neutral colour scheme with pops of your favourite colours to create a welcoming atmosphere.

    Personal Touches

    Adding personal touches to your campervan can make it feel like home. Hang family photos, display souvenirs from your travels, or incorporate artwork that resonates with you. It’s these little details that make your mobile home uniquely yours.

    Multi-Functional Furniture

    Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes. A bench seat with hidden storage can also be your dining area. Foldable tables and chairs can be stashed away when not in use, giving you more living space.

    Safety and Legal Considerations

    Insurance

    Make sure you have the right insurance for your campervan. Standard auto insurance may not cover the unique aspects of a campervan conversion. Look for policies specifically designed for recreational vehicles.

    Regulations and Permits

    Different countries and states have varying regulations regarding campervans. Research the legal requirements for your planned destinations, including parking and overnight stays. Ensure you have any necessary permits or documentation.

    The Freedom of the Open Road

    Campervan conversions offer the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore the world on your terms. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time nomad, having a home on wheels opens up a world of possibilities. From stunning natural landscapes to vibrant cityscapes, your campervan can take you anywhere.

    Maintenance and Upkeep

    Regular Checks

    Just like any other vehicle, your campervan requires regular maintenance. Check the engine, tires, and brakes regularly to ensure everything is in top condition. A well-maintained van is a reliable one.

    Cleaning and Hygiene

    Maintaining cleanliness is crucial for your comfort and health during your travels. Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces, and empty wastewater tanks promptly to prevent odors.

    The Road Ahead

    With the freedom to go where you want, when you want, and in the comfort of your own mobile home, the possibilities are endless.

    Remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey, and with your campervan as your faithful companion, every road becomes an opportunity for discovery.

     

  • 5 Must Have US TV Boxsets

    5 Must Have US TV Boxsets

    The last decade has rewarded us with a great deal of excellent TV shows, with numerous hits having graced our screens. From Game of Thrones to Breaking Bad and everything in between, there are now plenty of different boxsets which you can choose from to give you countless hours of viewing pleasure. Some truly magnificent US TV boxsets are now available, which offer a number of different genres and shows, so they are well worth exploring, no matter what your tastes. Here are some which you may be interested in.

     

    Westworld

    This critically acclaimed, futuristic fantasy has been incredibly well received globally. It takes place in a fictitious theme park called Westworld, where wealthy customers can enjoy a Wild West adventure experience, and robots play a central role in facilitating their adventures. Exploring the very current themes of artificial intelligence and sentience, this is unmissable, not to mention incredibly well-acted, with Anthony Hopkins giving an excellent performance. If you like sci-fi mixed with mystery, drama and a bit of action, then this is undoubtedly for you.

    Vikings

    Another critically acclaimed series, Vikings takes place in multiple locations throughout the seasons, initially documenting the journey of main character Ragnar as he travels to different locations in pursuit of adventure, blood and riches.

    This is definitely not for the faint of heart, as it contains extremely visceral action packed battles, but it also contains much deeper themes like ritual, family connections and politics. If you’re known to be a history buff, then you might find this one fascinating, although the intriguing storyline is enough to keep everyone happy.

    Charmed

    If you’re looking for something a little more light hearted and less gory than Vikings, Charmed is a great option. It follows three modern day witches living in America, all of whom must cope with integrating into modern day American society whilst using their powers to fight demons.

    With 8 full seasons there are many different storylines and characters which you can get your teeth into, so if you like fantasy adventure and supernatural themes, this is worth a watch.

    Bones: The Flesh and Bones Collection

    This series follows Dr. Temperance ‘Bones’ Brennan, an anthropologist who sets out to solve some of the FBI’s most puzzling, gory cases. Starring Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz, this series is perfect for those who love crime thrillers/mysteries with a bit of comedy thrown in. There are 12 series in total, which is enough to keep you satisfied for weeks on end.

    Band of Brothers

    For those who enjoy a good WW2 story inspired by true events, Band of Brothers has to take top spot. It follows the story of Easy Company, an American unit famed as much for its expertise on the battlefield as its unmatched bravery. The story is harrowing at times, and gives an incredibly realistic insight into life as a soldier in WW2, with incredible performances from its diverse cast. With Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks as executive producers, this series is a feat of modern day TV craftsmanship. There are many different US TV boxsets you can get your hands on, and these are but a few of the many great shows which are available. Be sure to have a look through your local store and find the best pick for you.

  • Six Races In: We Take A Look At The F1 Drivers’ Championship Contenders

    Six Races In: We Take A Look At The F1 Drivers’ Championship Contenders

    Monaco was hardly a thriller this year. With drivers racing slowly on their new soft tires, and overtaking not all that common in the principality, even Lewis Hamilton claimed the race was, “intensely boring”. A Daniel Ricciardo win though has opened the Drivers’ Championship a little further though as F1 rolls onto Canada in just a couple of weeks time. Only three drivers have claimed wins this season, with Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel and the Australian Red Bull driver enjoying two apiece. With the season almost a third in, we take a look at the three men, what they’ve done so far, and whether they can contend across the next 15 races…

    Lewis Hamilton

    The four-time World Champion is sitting at the top of the Drivers’ Championship currently on 110 points. He finished third in Monaco and the Brit has been in brilliant form since Baku. Mercedes weren’t necessarily expecting to get a result in the principality but Hamilton proved why he’s the current number one and favourite to claim the championship once again. Another podium finish in Canada will extend his lead at the top, and he’ll be hoping to start to pull away from Vettel and Ricciardo in the next few circuits.

     

     

    Sebastian Vettel

    Sebastian Vettel gained ground on Hamilton in Monaco and if he continues to shave points in Montreal he could be worth a free bwin bonus. Vettel is level with Hamilton for Montreal according to the bookmakers, and you get the impression this could be a key race in the F1 season. He ended a run of three without a podium finish last weekend and will be looking to kick on now and challenge all the way to the end once again. Vettel has been without a Championship since 2013, so his time may be on its way round again. It’s certainly going to be an exciting few months between now and November.

     

    Daniel Ricciardo

    Daniel Ricciardo is back in the running after a poor few races in Spain and Azerbaijan. It’s two wins in four though and he’s into third in the Championship standings on 72 points. The Australian was sensational in Monaco and was fastest in all three qualifying laps. Perhaps his best ever drive, you get the impression he’s in the form of his life in the Red Bull car and could seriously challenge if he can maintain it across the next few races and build from there.

  • Why skateboards and scooters are cool once again

    Why skateboards and scooters are cool once again

    Compared to other popular sports, skateboarding has been around for a comparatively short period of time. It all started in the 1950s in California – back then it was known as sidewalk surfing – and was created by surfers looking for a fun alternative when waves were low. Scooters, on the other hand, came about in the late 1990’s. Since then, both skateboards and scooters have gone through periods of resurgence. Now, in 2017, they’re enjoying another popularity spike, especially with teenagers and young adults. If you’re a boarder or have a scooter, then you’ll know just how amazing this sport can be.

    But if you’ve never tried it, here are some reasons why skateboards and scooters are awesome.

     

    Adrenaline Inducing

    Skateboards and scooters can be a dangerous sport, with users suffering from some nasty injuries – it’s all part of the fun! It’s also a difficult sport, taking months and years to master tricks. All of this adds a sense of danger and an element of excitement; they’re adrenaline inducing and provide s real sense of accomplishment. It’s also an exciting sport to watch. Just marvelling at someone flying through the air and performing tricks is enough to get anyone’s heart pounding!

    Providing Regeneration

    People on skateboards and scooters often get a bad name. There tends to be a bit of a stereotype and stigma around the sport, with people branded as rebellious and unlawful. However, this simply isn’t true. In fact, skaters have been known to boost city regeneration, making use of unforgotten and abandoned areas. This sport can also boost local economy and tourism. This is something you might have noticed, as more skate parks are continuing to pop up across cities in the UK – these are some of the best.

     

    Friendship and Belonging

    Everyone wants to feel like they belong, this is one of the biggest appeals of skateboards and scooters, especially for teenagers and young adults. It’s an inclusive sport, all about trying and having fun. It helps young people to find an identity, form friendships and instils and sense of belonging; you don’t have to be a certain type of person to be a skater. But you don’t have to be a teenager to give it a go.

    Skateboarding has become increasingly popular with adults in recent years, proving it’s never too late to buy a board or scooter and give it a try.

  • Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle’s new Amarok takes on a cool off-road challenge

    Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle’s new Amarok takes on a cool off-road challenge

    Among the things I love about driving, the ones at the top are powerful 4×4 vehicles and cool, scenic roads to drive them on. So when I saw the video below about the latest model of Amarok I had to look into it more – especially seeing they were pitting two teams of drivers against each other on the back roads and beaches of the Lake District.

     

    Testing the Amarok’s mettle

    The growl of the engine alone at the start of the video is enough to get me going. Not bad at all for a big pick-up. The first challenge was technical off-road driving over large bedrock, which the Amarok glides over with ease. I think it’s important to most of us that if we’re investing in a vehicle that can go off road and be driven along the city streets, we find something that is superior at both. That’s exactly what you get with the Amarok.

     

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    The 8-speed automatic gear box provides up to 550Nm of torque so uneven obstacles like this and hills are easily tackled, even in wet conditions. And what the Amarok does at the same time is carry big loads – 3.5 tonnes worth on its wide payload, if you need it to.

    To finish the video they did something I’d love to have a go at – spun donuts on a wide, sandy and fairly waterlogged beach. The aim was to make the Volkswagen symbol in the sand using the Amarok’s traction and with a bit of help from the rear-view camera, and they did a pretty good job.

     

    An off-roader at home on the streets

    Whetting my appetite to find out more, I did some research and the new Amarok has a lot of updated features that make it one seriously stylish vehicle for off road and city driving. It has a double chrome trim, bi-xenon headlights, a new grille and 17” alloys as standard. For an extra touch, my favourite add on is the stainless steel rear styling bar.

    Plus the dash has been upgraded with the latest tech in its central infotainment system including a Composition Media radio that outputs on six loud-speakers, AppConnect and electronic voice amplification so backseat passengers can hear you in the front.

    Has this video inspired you to go on an off-roading experience, or maybe the Amarok is your new car-crush? Let me know below.

  • Award winning Optic cycling helmet has genius drop-down visor

    Award winning Optic cycling helmet has genius drop-down visor

    Cycling here in the UK is statistically safer than gardening but there are

    22,000 cyclist casualties in England every year.

    Anything that can potentially help cycling to be safer here in the UK is a great thing. We featured the collar airbag last year and this year we want to showcase an award winning concept cycling helmet called optic from UK based DCA Design which was winner of this year’s Red Dot “Best of the Best” concept award in the mobility category. This amazing cycling integrates a cool drop-down visor into a bike helmet giving cyclists even more necessary information to make decisions quickly and safely. More than a shield for the eyes, the visor integrates information from front and rear cameras offering up a 360-degree view to the user. There’s also additional navigation tools and journey statistics. Altogether, making the Optic cycling helmet unlike any other helmet available to buy today.

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    Images courtesy of DCA Design

     

    The coolest feature apart from the drop-down optical display is the rear camera which captures a full 180 degree vantage which minimises cyclists’ largest blind stop allowing eyes to be focussed to the road ahead. Obstacles are laid out before riders while the bigger picture map remains easily accessible. There are also plenty of cycling statistic tools out there right now, but none that integrate distance, speed and heart rate into such an extensive road monitoring system. Flash memory data storage and a BlueTooth card allow all information to be recorded—either for analysis or reviewing any potential incidents that happened along the way.

     

    Should wearing a cycling helmet be law?

    Cycling is statistically safer than gardening and yet it doesn’t feel like it when you’re cycling next to a lorry or car that gets too close at a busy junction. Should the UK make wearing a helmet whilst cycling compulsory? this topic has been hotly debated and UK cyclists are currently not required to wear a helmet whilst cycling. This list details countries when it is illegal to ride a bike without a helmet. There tons of research you can read online about the advantages and disadvantages of making cycling helmets compulsory such as Bike helmet laws ‘do not prevent head injuries’ but one thing is for certain – cycling helmets alone aren’t going to help make cycling safer.

    Chris Boardman talks about this here on britishcycling.org.uk and the reasons why he didn’t wear a helmet on a BBC breakfast show. He draws attention to this video below from the Netherlands for an insight into why helmets aren’t the answer to keeping people on bikes safe. This video if from Utrecht in the Netherlands where helmet use is less than 0.5% and who have an incredible safety record and some of the lowest casualty rate of anywhere in the world.

     

    However countries that have tried to bring in compulsory helmet laws such as Australia and New Zealand have actually seen a 30% to 50% drop in the number of people cycling!

    Given that the health benefits of cycling outweigh the risks by around 20:1 (one recent study put it at 77:1), it can be shown that only a very small reduction in cycle use is needed for helmet promotion (let alone helmet laws) to shorten more lives than helmets themselves could possibly save, regardless of how effective helmets might be. When less than 2% of people in the UK cycle regularly, bringing in a law that would actually put more people off would be a serious step back.

    Law changes won’t fix the problem of cycling safety here in the UK and it sounds like it would only make things worse, but the Optic helmet from DCA Design is absolutely a step in the right direction by using technology to help cyclists make decisions quickly and safely.

     

     

     

  • 4 videos which will convince you DJI Mavic Pro is the best portable drone

    4 videos which will convince you DJI Mavic Pro is the best portable drone

    If there is one video that convinced us that the DJI Mavic Pro looks like the best portable drone to buy right now it is this video. We compared the DJI Mavic Pro and the GoPro Karma in this post based on specs and it’s close but the Mavic Pro won for us. Here are 3 other videos that showcase the Mavic Pro

    Video 2

    Casey Neistat also got his hands on the DJI Mavic Pro in this video

     

    Video 3

    DJI MAVIC vs. PHANTOM 4 vs. GOPRO KARMA side by side comparison in 4k by Casey Neistat again

     

    Video 4

    This is the official promo video of the Mavic Pro from DJI

  • Battle of the portable foldable drones. DJI Mavic Pro winning ‘on paper’ vs GoPro Karma

    Battle of the portable foldable drones. DJI Mavic Pro winning ‘on paper’ vs GoPro Karma

    Last week we jumped around the office in excitement about the new GoPro Karma portable drone – that was until the makers of the World’s best selling drone company DJI released details of their portable foldable drone version, Mavic Pro one week later.

    The big selling point for both the Mavic and Karma is size. Both utilise a brilliant foldable design to be more portable when you aren’t flying – for travel/adventurers, it’s their prays answered. The Mavic is lighter and folds up more compact. It can fit inside of a purse or holster on your belt, whereas the Karma fits comfortably inside of a backpack. You could fit 2 or 3 Mavics inside of the backpack that holds the Karma. That doesn’t mean the Karma is too big. It’s still much smaller and lighter than traditional drones.

    So how do the two foldable drones stack up against each other on paper based on specs? From what we’ve read and the videos we’ve watched, here’s which drone we think wins on specs alone – these opinions are our own and based on the specs we’ve seen…until we can get our hands on them.

    Speed

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    The DJI Mavic Pro has a faster top speed of 40 mph versus GoPro Karma at 35 mph.

     

    Battery Life

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    The DJI Mavic Pro has a longer battery life at 27 minutes versus GoPro Karma at 20 minutes. It can even be outfitted with any phone or tablet you want. The Mavic Pro is also small enough to fit uncomfortably into a pair of jean pockets. The Karma, on the other hand, requires a backpack (or similarly-sized vessel) to be transported from place to place.

    Not only does Mavic have a longer flight time, but it can also be operated up to 4.3 miles away, which gives it a huge advantage over the Karma.

     

    Controller

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    The GoPro Karma ships with a controller using a built-in display and packs up nicely into the little backpack that comes with the Karma. The Mavic Pro has an optional controller, meaning you can instead operate the device from your phone. The controller that DJI sells separately can be paired with any phone if you want to see preview video while you’re flying.

     

    Avoidance System

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    DJI Mavic Pro comes with five-camera obstacle avoidance system similar to the one in the Phantom 4. The GoPro Karma doesn’t have any obstacle avoidance features.

     

    Follow Me 

    DJI Mavic Pro Wins
    DJI Mavic Pro also comes with some cool follow modes – the drone can lead you in front, follow you at a profile and do a cool trick where it files circles around you as you move. The smart flying capabilities are enabled by the cameras and sensors on the drone. It’s still unclear whether the GoPro Karma will offer a follow me function.

     

    Camera

    GoPro Karma Wins Only Just

    GoPro is known for making great cameras, but the Mavic manages to get the slight edge here too. The best configuration of the Karma uses the new Hero5 Black camera, which can shoot 4K video at 30 fps. The Mavic has a built-in camera that can shoot Cinema 4K at 24 fps. Cinema 4K has even higher resolution than standard 4K. Of course, the Mavic can do regular 4K at 30 fps too. The higher resolution doesn’t automatically give the Mavic a win, but previous DJI drones have produced excellent results.

    The DJI Mavic Pro ships with a camera that shoots 4K video, but it’s bolted to the drone, so you can’t exactly use it while you’re not flying the drone around.
    The GoPro Karma was built to combat these type of situations. It can be outfitted with the new GoPro Hero 5 Black, the Hero 5 Session, Hero 4, and Hero 3 cameras. If you already own one of theses cameras, the Karma is a great way to get them airborne, but if you still need to buy one, it could just make the cost of your aerial rig a lot more expensive.

     

    Handheld Stabiliser

    GoPro Karma Wins
    Another cool feature of the GoPro Karma is its removable stabiliser that can be used as a handheld gimbal for shooting nice clean shots on or off the drone. When it comes to versatility of video recording, the GoPro Karma easily beats DJI.

     

    Price

    It’s close between the two drones – DJI Mavic Pro edges it slightly for us 

    The DJI Mavic Pro sells for $750 (approx £580) without the remote control (which means you’d have to use your phone or tablet to control it)
    $1,000 (approx £770) with the controller.

    The GoPro Karma sells for a flat price of $800 (approx £620) and comes with a controller that uses a built-in display.
    The total cost depends on what camera you strap to it.
    $1000 (approx £770) with a GoPro Hero 5 Session
    $1100 (approx £850) with a GoPro Hero 5 Black.

    When it comes to drones and budgets, there’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, so the perfect foldable drone will be a matter of preference. Without spending too much time flying either drone, though, it looks like the DJI Mavic has a slight edge in terms of performance and value. The GoPro Karma looks like the better value for money option for shooters, with a removable camera and gimbal that can be used for other application.

     

    Comparison Table

     

    Here’s a useful comparison table comparing the specs between the DJI Mavic Pro and GoPro Karma drones.

    SPEC GOPRO KARMA DJI MAVIC PRO
    Built-in Camera ✕ ✓
    Handheld Gimbal Included ✓ ✕
    Dual IMU & Compass ✕ ✓
    Object Tracking ✕ ✓
    Obstacle Sensing System ✕ ✓
    Vision Positioning System ✕ ✓
    Precision Landing ✕ ✓
    Dual Operator ✓ GoPro Passenger™ App ✕
    Case / Backpack ✓ Optional Extra
    Monitor / Screen included ✓ (Touchscreen) ✕ (LED info display only)
    Smart Phone as Monitor ✕ ✓
    Gimbal 3 Axis 3 Axis
    Camera Sensor 1/2.3” (CMOS) 1/2.3” (CMOS)
    Camera Lens FOV 94° 17.2mm f/2.8 FOV 78.8° 28 mm f/2.2
    Resolution : UHD 4K up to 30p / 2.7k 60p 4K / 2.7k up to 30p + C4K 24p
    Resolution : FHD 1080 up to 120p 1080 up to 96p
    Resolution : HD 720 up to 240p 720 up to 120p
    LOG Profile ProTune™ D-Log / D-Cinelike
    Bitrate 60 Mb/s 60 Mb/s
    Stills 12MP RAW + WDR 12MP DNG RAW + HDR
    Burst shooting 3/5/10/30 fps 3/5/7 fps
    Timelapse 0.5s–60s 10s–60s (assumed)
    Max. Speed 35 mph (15.6 m/s) 40 mph (17.8 m/s)
    Max. Distance 1000m / 1km 13000m / 13km
    Max. Altitude 4500m / 4.5km 5000m / 5km
    Max. Wind Resistance 22mph (9.8 m/s) 24mph (10.7 m/s)
    Satellite Positioning GPS GPS + GLONASS
    Transmission Wi-Fi Wi-Fi / OcuSync
    Transmission Range 1000m / 1km (assumed) Up to 7000m / 7km
    Operating Frequency 2.4GHz 2.4 GHz to 2.483 GHz
    Downlink Stream 720p HD Up to 1080p FHD
    Battery 14.8v / 5100mAH 11.4v / 3830 mAh
    Flight Time (apx.) 20 mins 27 mins
    Operating Temp. ? 32° to 104° F (0° to 40° C)
    Weight 1006g 734g
    Dimensions (open) in mm L: 303 / W: 411 / H: 117 ?
    Dimensions (folded) in mm L: 365 / W: 224 / H: 90 L: 198 / W: 83 / H: 81
    Retail Price : US $1099.99 inc. Hero 5 -or- $799.991 $999.00
    Retail Price : UK £999.99 inc. Hero 5 -or- £719.991 £999.00
    Retail Price : EU €1199.99(?) inc. Hero 5 -or- €869.991 €1199.00
    Battery Price $99.99 / £89.99 / €109.00 $89.00 / £85.00 / €99.00
    Pre-order ✕ Not yet ✓ 27th Sept 2016
    Shipping October 23rd 2016 October 15th 2016

    Head to Head Test Flight

    Both companies pack a lot of features into the respective drones, the Mavic definitely has more features built-in and the automation is great for regular users out for fun. Karma may have the edge for filmmakers if the dual operator function works well.

    We wait to see someone physically get these two drones and do some true head-to-head test flights in order to determine which is the best. Ahead of that head-to-head battle, it looks like the DJI Mavic Pro has the slight edge over the GoPro Karma, at least on paper.

  • This is the drone we’ve been looking for! GoPro Karma

    This is the drone we’ve been looking for! GoPro Karma

    Flying camera drones have come along way in just 4 years. I remember attending a BBC aerial filmers convention in 2013 and the drones being used were very large, heavy, difficult to transport, expensive (anything from £7.5k to £30k at that time) and challenging to fly. It’s all very much changed today. For around £850 you can now buy a drone which delivers professional quality video that’s small and easy to use, amazing!

    Loads of companies released flying camera drones over the past few years, it seemed a new one was available every month! Just look here on Amazon at how many choices there now are! The good thing is the competition made quality much better and prices much cheaper, but there was one major company that took their time and waited. You’d expect big things from GoPro and they were so clever to wait and develop the best drone system that includes stabilised handheld which is exactly what people want, flexibility…at the right price, just at the right time and combined with with the launch of their best GoPro yet, GoPro Hero5.

     

    My issue with GoPro was Stabilisation.

    My issue with drones was Portability.

    What did GoPro do?

    Fix Stabilisation + Made A Portable Drone

    This is a game changer, I absolutely think GoPro have nailed this and it all worth the wait. The price is mind bogglingly low considering the bundle includes a GoPro Hero5 + Karma Drone + Controller w/touchscreen + handheld stabiliser + backpack/case that everything fits in – ALL FOR £850!  4 years ago that would have just bought the stabiliser and backpack without the drone and the video camera!

    Stabilised GoPro video in the air + on the ground….YES, Finally!

     

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    The GoPro Hero 5 Black with Karma stabiliser and handle

     

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    The GoPro Karma controller with touchscreen display

     

    Find out more about GoPro Karma on GoPro website here

     

  • Telematics

    Telematics

     

    If your business runs a fleet of vehicles or if you and your employees drive a lot as part of your day-to-day job, vehicle tracking is a great way to ensure that you are getting the most out of your vehicles and your drivers. Telematics can be fitted in your vehicles, from one car to a whole fleet, allowing you to track your vehicles and drivers 24/7. One little box gives you a huge amount of information and data regarding your fleet. Here are just a few of the benefits of adopting telematics in your business:

     

    Improve fuel efficiency

    Identifying inefficient driving practices such as speeding or excessive braking and accelerating will help drivers to drive in a more fuel efficient manner. Telematics can provide this information for your business and can also help you to reduce the amount of time vehicles are idle and identify the fastest routes to reduce mileage. This will reduce the amount of money spent on fuel and will also promote greener, eco-friendly driving, which is good for the environment and also your company’s reputation.

     

    Improve driver behaviour

    Gaining insight into the behaviour of your fleet drivers will allow you to identify any inefficient or dangerous drivers or driving practices. From this knowledge you can determine where additional training and risk management is required to improve driving practices, and you can also reward good drivers to encourage these behaviours in the future. Better drivers will make your service more time efficient, will reduce maintenance costs for your fleet and also protect the reputation of your company.

     

    Stay informed about crashes

    Most ‘crashes’ that occur are minor mishaps, but staying informed about these incidents is still important as it can help with insurance claims. As the technology used for telematics advances, their collision detection is becoming more and more accurate. For example, RAC’s telematics have been proven to detect crashes and non-crash events to a 92% degree of accuracy by monitoring acceleration and vibration signatures (versus an industry standard of 50%). It has the ability to detect collisions at speeds as low as 5mph, which are just as significant to vehicle costs as high speed crashes. It can also separate out real collisions from false positives, if someone drives over a kerb or a speed bump, for example.

     

    Know where your driver/vehicles are at all times

    Telematics gives you the ability to locate your fleet at all times. This lets you keep an eye on drivers to ensure that they are where they are supposed to be, letting you also clearly differentiate between business and personal mileage. It also improves your communication with both the drivers and your customers. If, for example, you are delivering goods to a customer, you can give them an accurate time of arrival, improving your customer service.

    If you want to stay in full control of your fleet and operate it as safely and efficiently as you can, you should be installing telematics in your vehicles. It’s a simple solution that provides a great deal of functionality to improve your business.