SmallRig Partners with Aerial Photographer Chen Cheng to Innovate Aerial Imaging Solutions

Innovating Aerial Imaging: SmallRig and Chen Cheng Collaboration

In a groundbreaking announcement, SmallRig, a global provider of imaging solutions, has partnered with acclaimed Chinese aerial photographer Chen Cheng (@superflankerstudio) as a co-creator of the SmallRig brand. This collaboration marks a significant step towards a deeper integration of imaging equipment manufacturing and professional aerial photography.

A User-Centric Approach

SmallRig has always prioritized a user-centric approach that fosters creative collaboration. This partnership signifies the beginning of a strategic alliance that covers aviation imagery creation, product development, and the broader promotion of aviation culture. The goal is to accelerate innovation in aerial imaging and outdoor photography equipment, ultimately enhancing user experiences in demanding environments.

Zhou Yang, the founder and CEO of SmallRig, emphasized that co-creation is at the heart of SmallRig's identity and growth model. He pointed out that Chen Cheng, recognized as a leading figure in global aerial imaging, is a long-time user of SmallRig equipment. His extensive knowledge gained over years of photographing aircraft in complex scenarios aligns perfectly with SmallRig’s scenario-driven innovation strategy, establishing a robust foundation for co-creation.

"This collaboration will deepen our exploration into imaging scenarios for aviation and even aerospace, providing solutions tailored to real-world needs," added Zhou.

Chen Cheng, a pioneer in aerial photography in China, boasts over a decade of professional experience. He has documented the development and flight milestones of aircraft such as the Boeing 777, Airbus A380, Airbus A350, and China's COMAC C919. Before becoming a full-time photographer, he worked as an aircraft maintenance engineer, which allowed him to acquire technical knowledge of aeronautical mechanics. This background has shaped his methodical, safety-focused approach to photography.

Chen believes that "a beautiful aircraft is inevitably a well-designed one," and has captured the rise of China's aviation industry. His aerial sequence of the C919 has garnered over a million views across platforms, providing the public with a striking insight into emerging aviation technologies.

The Essence of Co-Creation

The partnership between Chen and SmallRig stems from a shared commitment to technical rigor and creative innovation. Aerial photography requires lightweight, adaptable, and fully functional equipment, regardless of the shooting position. SmallRig devices have played a central role in Chen's multi-camera deployments during aerial shoots.

Chen noted that SmallRig's lightweight camera cages, extension hubs, and quick-charging type-C batteries have become essential elements of his aerial work. These solutions enable a single camera to capture still images and 4K videos simultaneously, significantly improving efficiency and raising the overall production standard during high-intensity missions.

"Aerial photography is not just about being physically present in the sky; it demands a constant state of professional focus and genuine passion from the shooter," Chen remarked about this collaboration. He added that this partnership would allow more individuals to appreciate the beauty of aviation through reliable equipment and exceptional imagery.

This initiative transcends a mere partnership between a technology brand and a renowned aerial photographer. It signifies a new exploration of the user-driven co-creation model within the imaging sector. From renowned wildlife photographer Xi Zhinong, founder of Wild China Film, to aerial photography pioneer Chen Cheng, SmallRig has collaborated with diverse creators and continues to expand its recruitment program for "co-creation directors," aiming to connect with experts across various fields. The objective is to ensure that products not only meet current needs but also anticipate future demands, offering solutions that evolve alongside real-world creative requests.

By attentively listening to creators and enlisting professional photographers to assist in product design, SmallRig aspires to push the limits of imaging equipment performance and artistic expression.

Founded in 2013, SmallRig aims to provide creators worldwide with camera and phone mounting and stabilization solutions, as well as lighting and control systems, imaging device batteries, and audio equipment. Today, SmallRig's products are utilized in over 160 countries and regions, catering to a wide array of scenarios, from livestreaming and vlogging to short videos, documentaries, and Hollywood blockbuster productions. After more than a decade of growth, SmallRig has evolved from a focus solely on camera mounting products to a comprehensive product ecosystem characterized by global scenarios and a rapid supply chain model.

For more information, visit www.smallrig.com.