We were contacted by Foton, which is a Polish company that produces camera accessories. They wanted us to test out and let them know what we think of their new motorized slider the Varanus VS2.

I was busy at the moment on another job, so I asked a friend of mine, a talented photographer Akash Wadhwani, to help out by testing the kit. You can check out Akash’s website for more of his amazing photos and time-lapse tutorials.

Here is the video review of the motorized slider

Here is a 4K version of the shots that Akash got using the Varanus VS2

If you are interested in getting the Varanus Slider, then please check out the manufacturer’s website.

Here is a bit more info on the Varanus VS2. It’s an advanced, double-drive set for Kameleon sliders 64, 94, 130, 200 cm. It allows you to record extremely smooth and dynamic scenes in motion. Programmable controller precisely manages the operation of the engines and – after connecting the appropriate cable – camera shutter in Time-lapse mode.

Possibility of setting the track, determine the speed of movement and looping, allows to automate the work of a filmmaker. Adding second axis allows for more complicated takes including Slide and Pan or Tilt. Movement in both axes can be synchronized and allows the camera to accurately track the filmed subject. As a result, it becomes possible to develop ambitious film production without additional cameramen.

Advanced algorithms used in the original software allow you to simplify the process of creating time-lapse movies. After selecting the starting and finishing points, setting number of frames and shutter speed, the device automatically performs all necessary calculations. This allows you to avoid troublesome calculations and simplify the creative process.

Efficient, energy-saving motor allows you to work at different planes: from horizontal to vertical and in all intermediate settings. Using popular batteries Sony NP – Series Fxxx provides up to 8 hours (for single drive) or 5 hours (for double drive) of work – in video mode and more than 70 hours in the Time-lapse.
Maximum load of mounted recording device is 6 kg for horizontal movement and 3 kg for vertical.

Set is manufactured of durable and lasting aluminum alloys. Controllers housing is resistant to splashes, shock and allows you to work in difficult weather conditions (-10 to +40° C). Unlike the joysticks used in similar devices, which are susceptible to dirt and – in time – subject to frequent mechanical defects, we’ve intentionally used hermetic navigation buttons, guaranteeing long-term and reliable operation of our product.

The included holder allows for mounting controller on slider.
The modular design allows you to combine sets or increase their functionality with additional accessories (see recommended products below).

Basic functions:
• Two modes – Video and Time-lapse
• Works in various planes
• Advanced algorithms for track, speed and tilt calculations
• Memory bank with 10 slots
• Remote shutter release
• Star delay and loop
• Speed adjustment
• RAMP
• Battery info
• Power efficient
• Splash, shock and weather resistant controller
• Compatible with Kameleon Sliders