The DJI RS 4 Pro with its Focus Pro LiDAR system pushes autofocus technology into new territory. Unlike standard camera AF systems that rely solely on contrast or phase detection, LiDAR uses light detection and ranging to map subjects — resulting in sharper, faster, and more reliable focus. But how does it perform in real-world conditions? We tested it in multiple scenarios to find out.
Test 1: Low-Light Performance
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Setup: RS 4 Pro + LiDAR module + mirrorless camera with manual cinema lens.
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Result: LiDAR consistently locked onto subjects in near-dark environments where camera AF failed. Faces and moving subjects stayed sharp even at f/1.8.
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Takeaway: Perfect for weddings, events, and night shoots where traditional autofocus struggles.
Test 2: Fast-Moving Subjects
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Setup: Outdoor running sequence with a subject moving toward and away from the camera.
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Result: LiDAR focus tracking kept up without noticeable hunting or lag, even with rapid direction changes.
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Takeaway: Ideal for sports, action filmmaking, or documentary work.
Test 3: Depth Shifts (Focus Pull Simulation)
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Setup: Subject seated in foreground with another person in background, alternating between the two.
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Result: LiDAR produced smooth, cinematic focus transitions with no jitter. Focus pull speed could be adjusted for dramatic or subtle effects.
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Takeaway: Replicates professional focus pulls without a dedicated focus puller.
Test 4: Complex Environments
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Setup: Subject walking through a crowded space with overlapping elements (trees, chairs, background movement).
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Result: LiDAR maintained lock on the subject even with foreground obstructions. Minor corrections were smooth and natural.
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Takeaway: Reliable in environments that would confuse standard AF systems.
Speed & Accuracy Metrics
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Focus Acquisition Time: Instant (<0.1s in most cases).
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Accuracy: Consistently sharp results across focal lengths, including shallow depth of field lenses.
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Range: Effective up to ~30 meters, outperforming optical-only focus solutions in distance consistency.
When to Use LiDAR Autofocus
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Solo Shooting → Handles focus duties, freeing you to manage framing and movement.
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Event Coverage → Reliable in fast, unpredictable settings.
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Small Crews → Reduces the need for a dedicated focus puller on mid-budget productions.
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High-End Productions → Works in tandem with the Focus Pro Hand Unit for hybrid AF/manual workflows.
Final Verdict
The LiDAR autofocus system on the RS 4 Pro is not just a gimmick — it’s a game-changing tool. Whether you’re shooting fast-paced action, dimly lit scenes, or cinematic depth pulls, LiDAR provides speed, accuracy, and reliability that rivals professional crews.
For filmmakers who want cutting-edge autofocus in a lightweight ecosystem, the RS 4 Pro + Focus Pro LiDAR combination is one of the most powerful setups available today.
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