Video Assist is an iPad app that turns Apple’s popular tablet into a professional-oriented HDMI and SDI video monitor. Version 2.0 of Video Assist is now available, adding many significant features to the app.
Video Assist 2.0 adds LUT support, focus peaking, false color display, zebras, compositing, and ProRes recording.
Looking closer at each of these improvements, users can now apply 3D LUTs within Video Assist using the app’s Color Correction tool. Videographers can use the LUT Mix option to dial in the right intensity for their workflow, and the app supports standard .cube files.
The new monitoring tools, including focus peaking, false color, and zebras, ensure video shooters can more easily dial in focus and exposure using the iPad’s large display.
To support ProRes recording, the app’s video engine had to be re-engineered from the ground up to support Apple’s Metal Framework and the ProRes recording pipeline.
Alongside this improvement, the app also features input calibration to correct any color shifts introduced by UVC capture cards and a new pinch-to-zoom function that allows videographers to quickly inspect the live/playback video feed.
The app’s developer, Bradley Andrew of Auron Studios, says Video Assist “works great as a director’s monitor, particularly with a 13-inch iPad.”
“Some Directors of Photography (DPs) really like using it for their own personal playback and reference. The delay is minimal, and I know a number of DPs who operate from it when on wheels, etc.,” Andrew continues.
The app can also be used alongside a dedicated monitor. For example, Andrew says that some camera operators run the HDMI Out from their monitor to an iPad mini, providing another way to monitor video and check playback. The app supports record triggering for many cameras, including models from Arri, Blackmagic, RED, and Sony, to name a few.
“I’ve heard of some films giving it to their Script Supervisor, then the scripty has their own easy to use playback system for referencing previous shots. Obviously, it depends on how tech savvy they are but it’s an interesting use case. Some Gaffers have found it useful too as a lighting reference,” Andrew adds.
Video Assist for iPad is confirmed to work with HDMI capture cards from Elgato, EVGA, AverMedia, Roland, Ugreen, and Simplecom, as well as SDI capture cards from AJA and AVMatrix. The app works with the latest iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini, and iPad Pro models, although complete system requirements are available on the Apple App Store.
“As a general rule, if your iPad has a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3/4/5 port, then it will be compatible,” the app’s developer explains.
Video Assist is available as a free download, although the app requires a license for full operation. There is a base version for $129.99 and a Pro license for $199.99.
Image credits: Video Assist for iPad
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