CineBag 9+

Much to like but to much missing…

I got this app to because it looked like it was a good way to keep track of my kit and create a production equipment rental list within the same app. The nice thing is the app is quite intuitive after a few minutes of acclimating to its user interface design. I believe it does a lot of what the developer intended based on its description and seems to provide a good foundation on which to build, but to much is missing to make it workable for most filmmakers.

The CineBag page on the App Store provide details, graphic and screenshots which explicitly and implicitly indicate a broad range of camera and lens options when inventorying my existing kit and when selecting rental equipment. It states,

“The World’s largest database of lenses and camera”
…
“A unique and intelligent application. 100% customisable. CineBag learns from your tastes, needs to adjust to your work on set.”

This is where the app fails to deliver—the vast majority of the camera and lens options are simply not there. No Blackmagic Design, no Panasonic, Zeiss or Panavision little to no Canon. This missing cinema lenses are really to many to list unless you had an actual ‘World’s largest database of lenses.’ Further many of the models (including latest) are missing from the makes that are listed.

I believe 100% customizable is true but only if your the developer. I was unable to find a way to add new lenses that were missing from their list.

I applaud the developer for their vision, the execution was so close, but with delivery on the key promised, I’m afraid this app will be relegated to the bottom my ‘tool bag.’

One thing that might help is allowing the user to customize camera and lens options including rental only options. Approaching the manufacturers, mod houses and rental houses directly to allow them to also update the database to their current and historic products.

Finally finding a revenue option to support the ongoing product database updates, app development and support issues should be wise to guarantee the apps near and long term viability. I would suggest a dual option of a reasonable subscription model and also a onetime purchase option.