Velbon V4-unit II review: a useful arm for tabletop photogrammetry

Note: This article was published more than a year ago.

• Product specifications, load ratings, and included accessories may be revised. Check the exact model with Velbon.
• Photogrammetry handling depends on camera and lens weight and center of gravity. Recheck the actual balance and stability.
• Reprojection and markerless workflows vary with the software version. This article reflects the workflow at the time.

Here is a multi-angle unit particularly useful for tabletop photogrammetry: Velbon's V4-unit II. It makes the photography more efficient and is very convenient. Photogrammetry creates a 3D model of an object from multiple photographs. It is used in architecture, manufacturing, games, video production, and many other fields. High-quality models require photographs from many angles. Velbon V4-unit II multi-angle unit

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A multi-angle unit is something between a tripod head and an extending support for adjusting camera angles. It attaches to a tripod and allows movement in different directions. Turning the grip changes the column angle, and it extends over a range of about 20cm. Here are the V4-unit II specifications. The recommended load is 3kg, enough for a substantial camera and lens.

• Width: 352mm with the column retracted
• Depth: 147mm
• Height: 91mm
• Column travel: 205mm
• Base diameter: 44mm
• Horizontal movement: 360° rotation
• Vertical movement: +90° upward to −90° downward
• Weight: 613g
• Recommended load: 3kg
• Head mounting screw: UNC 1/4-inch
• Tripod mounting socket: supports UNC 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch
• Release: May 2020

Briefly following the manual: attach the section with the crank handle to the tripod and mount the camera at the head screw. The operating grip adjusts and locks tilt, while turning the crank moves the geared column up and down. The operating grip adjusts and locks tilt. Turning the crank raises or lowers the geared column. Keep turning and it extends. It extends about 20cm, as specified. This combination is ideal for tabletop photogrammetry. Photograph a complete circuit around the small object. Raise the column a little, tilt the camera down with the head, and photograph another circuit. Raise the camera farther and repeat. Here is an actual capture I made this way. Fine height adjustments produce a neatly arranged set of photographs. Nice. The orderly, efficient capture helps produce high-quality photogrammetry results. A tripod and head can adjust height and angle without this unit, so it is not essential. But it makes the photography more efficient. A useful accessory!

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