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Sony Vegas | NAB 2013: Sony Creative Software
Sony Creative Software offered some important updates with its Vegas Pro 12 software. Chief among the upgrades was native support for 4K and support for Panasonic's P2 cameras. Sony Creative Software also highlighted SpectraLayers Pro and Sound Forge Pro Mac, which were shown as a technology demonstration at last year's NAB but are now shipping. With a range of in-depth presentations by Sony Creative Software users, a visit to this company's booth was an education in the various creative ways that the software can be used successfully.
04/27/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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AJA Ki Pro | NAB 2013: AJA Video Systems
AJA Video Systems debuted its Ki Pro Quad solid-state portable video recorder for 4K camera-to-editorial workflows with Apple ProRes and RAW data. The new Ki Pro Quad supports 4:2:2 and 4:4:4 recording at HD and 2K resolution and real-time scaling from 4K/Quad HD to 2K/HD among its many other features. AJA also introduced its Hi5-4K Mini-Converter, which offers a monitoring connection from professional 4K devices to consumer 4K displays, and its Region of Interest Mini-Converter, which enables conversion and real-time scaling of computer DVI-D and HDMI outputs to baseband video over SDI. AJA also came to the show with lots of partnership news from Adobe, Avid and FilmLight as well as Quantel is now using AJA's Corvid Ultra OEM cards to power its Pablo RIO.
04/26/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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 | Cut the Cord with Wireless HD
Recent wireless HD systems have gotten way better and much cheaper. DP/cameraman Helmut Kobler takes a look at two systems from Teradek and Paralinx that show just how impressive these units have become.
04/24/2013
Author: Helmut Kobler |
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NewTek TriCaster | NAB 2013: NewTek
At NAB 2013, NewTek unveiled 3Play 4800, a multi-camera server for live sports production that features real-time uses, redundant capture, high-end visual effects and slo-mo, as well as live replay switching and social media publishing. 3Play 4800 is the latest in the 3Play series of replay server technology and intended to provide affordable access to more sports broadcasters. NewTek also showcased the latest products benefitting the TriCaster 8000 from companies in the NewTek Developer Network, in categories ranging from content to controllers.
04/22/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | NAB 2013: Anton/Bauer
Anton/Bauer came to NAB 2013 to celebrate its Scientific and Engineering Award from AMPAS earlier in the year...and to introduce three new products: the Anton/Bauer Gold Spectrum Wireless Series, the result of a collaboration with sister Vitec company Integrated Microwave Technologies; the DIONIC HD battery, aimed at use with some of today's high-end digital cameras; and the PowerCharger 3000 Series of three new chargers.
04/21/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Canon Cameras | NAB 2013: Canon Demonstrates 4K Workflow, Intros New Cameras
Canon highlighted an end-to-end 4K workflow at NAB 2013, showing a digital intermediate suite and a live 4K broadcast with "Ultra-Zoom" applications. The company also debuted two new, entry-level professionals video cameras, the XA25 and XA20. The cameras feature Canon's first-ever Organic LED (OLED) touch panels, weigh 2.6 pounds and are priced at under $3,000. Canon also announced that it's begun development on a new 35mm prime lens for large-format single-sensor cameras employing Super 35mm, full-frame 35mm, and APS-C size imagers.
04/21/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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ARRI | NAB 2013: ARRI Upgrades Alexa & Shows Off Anamorphic Lenses
ARRI made good on its promise to plan a long-life path for Alexa; at NAB 2013, the company offered the XR Module and several components of the Alexa XT configuration as upgrades. The first three focal lengths of the ARRI/ZEISS Master Anamorphic lens series are slated to ship next month, and ARRI showed a 10-minute film shot with the 50 mm MA50 lens. Also on tap were Pro Camera Accessories for the Sony F5/F55, new Alura LDS Extenders, lightweight matte box LMB-6, and the new Cage System II.
04/19/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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NAB Expo | NAB 2013: Blackmagic Design Debuts an UltraHD Workflow
At the Blackmagic Design, UltraHD/4K reigned supreme. The company not only introduced a 4K camera, the Blackmagic Production Camera, but a range of products that create an entire UltraHD workflow. Blackmagic Design has been focusing on 6G-SDI technology for multiple products including the ATEM Production Studio 4K live production studio, Blackmagic Audio Monitor and ATEM Studio Converter 2, all of which support UltraHD resolution. In addition, Blackmagic introduced its Pocket Cinema Camera, a compact Super 16 digital cinema camera with 13 stops of dynamic range, and DaVinci Resolve 10, both priced under $1,000.
04/19/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Adobe SpeedGrade | NAB 2013: On the Post Production Trail - Wrap Up
Finally at home from an eventful NAB, Dennis Kutchera sorts through his show notes to deliver to COW readers thoughts on 4K and HD, hints on Adobe's upgrades on Premiere Pro and Adobe SpeedGrade, and the advantages of FilmLight's Baselight.
04/15/2013
Author: Dennis Kutchera |
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NAB Expo | NAB 2013: Day Two With Ryan Salazar
Ryan Salazar fills Day Two of NAB Show with interviews. Ryan spoke with Marc Hamaker, Senior Product Marketing Manager of Creative Finishing at Autodesk, with Vince Pace, co-founder of the Cameron | Pace Group, and stopped by the Panasonic, Canon, GoPro and Camera Corps booths.
04/09/2013
Author: Ryan Salazar |
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Cinematography | The Nouveau French Wave of Cinematography for Television
Claudia Kienzle writes on the use of Fujinon Cabrio lenses by DP Bill Sheehy ("Curb Your Enthusiasm"). The article discusses in depth about the new handheld digital cinema shooting style that pairs the lightweight Sony PMW-F3 Super35 HD camera with the new Fujinon PL 19-90 Cabrio (ZK4.7x19) PL mount zoom lens. Sheehy is currently shooting the BET show "Real Husbands of Hollywood" using that Sony camera and Fujinon lens.
03/27/2013
Author: Claudia Kienzle |
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Cinematography | The Making of 1000 to 1: Lenses & Lighting For The RED Epic
Working with Angenieux on new lens solutions for the RED Epic, wrestling freakish gym fluorescent lighting, wrangling national park filming permits: these were just a few of the challenges facing cinematographer and co-producer (and Digital Cinema Society founder) James Mathers in the making of "1000 to 1," an inspirational indie drama to be released later this year. James tells a remarkable tale of the lengths one production went to make their film look much bigger than its budget, with practical advice for filmmakers on every scale.
03/05/2013
Author: James Mathers |
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Cinematography | NO Relies On 1980s Cameras To Tell A Historic Tale
Nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film after having played Cannes, the Toronto International Film Festival and the Telluride Film Festival, NO is a gripping film about the peaceful overthrow of Chilean strong man General Augusto Pinochet. To make it more intriguing, the filmmakers opted to shoot with Ikegami cameras from 1983, to match existing footage from the era. It's not a decision they took lightly, and their calculations paid off.
02/23/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | KICKSTART THEFT: Filmed on Sony F65
Cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond, ASC and director Frederic Goodich, ASC got together to push the new Sony F65 to its limits. The result is Kickstart Theft, a short film based on De Sica's classic The Bicycle Thieves, which was shot in downtown Los Angeles in a range of challenging lighting and shooting conditions.
02/12/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | The Camera Is An Eye - Not A Vacuum Or A Gun
This article is intended to be a friendly guidepost for all shooters who wish to improve their craft. At the highest level, you, the shooter, are involved in one of the greatest art forms the world has ever known. At the lowest level, you, the shooter, are still involved in one of the greatest art forms the world has ever known. Find out how to channel your "Inner-Welles" and create the majestic poetry we all crave from your art.
02/05/2013
Author: David Allison |
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Art of the Edit | Unique VFX Challenges for Live One-take Shooting on Les Miz
Les Misérables, based on Victor Hugo's novel of crime and redemption in 19th Century France, has been a huge hit in theatres. Though it's gained acclaim for director Tom Hooper's technique of one-take shots of actors singing the songs, digital visual effects have provided many key elements. Les Miz represents a unique combination of in-camera effects, 2D and 3D compositing, adding elements, removing elements -- and not a single green screen shot.
01/20/2013
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | Jacob Rosenberg Directs Waiting for Lightning
Waiting for Lightning is the tragic and triumphant story of legendary skateboarder Danny Way, following him from his chaotic childhood to his early talent with a skateboard through to his many professional successes. With a combination of archival footage, interviews and skateboard action, Waiting for Lightning also takes us on Danny's journey to China to jump the Great Wall on a skateboard.
12/07/2012
Author: Jacob Rosenberg |
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Cinematography | Firefly: DP David Boyd ASC Recalls Shooting The Cult Classic
Well before David Boyd A.S.C. shot a single frame of The Walking Dead, Deadwood, or Friday Night Lights, he was the cinematographer for every episode of the short-lived, much-loved series Firefly, from writer-director Joss Whedon. On the 10th anniversary of Firefly, David talks to Creative COW about shooting Firefly, the show's remarkable life since its premature cancellation, and its passionate fans.
11/26/2012
Author: David Boyd, ASC |
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Stereoscopic 3D | The Making of Flight of the Butterflies in 3D on IMAX
SK Films just released Flight of the Butterflies in 3D, an IMAX/giant screen film that details the true story of the scientist who spent 40 years researching the incredible epic migration of the monarch butterfly. Using, among other technologies, a specialized 3D snorkel camera designed by Peter Parks for close-up photography, the feature film features spectacular real footage of the brilliant monarch butterfly sanctuaries.
10/30/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | SMPTE 2012 Annual Technical Conference & Exhibition
Ryan Salazar brings us highlights from SMPTE's annual convention - three days of highly-technical sessions with the industry's top masters, hosted by the accredited industry standards-setting body, which is also the industry's leading nonprofit association providing technology education and information to the motion imaging industry.
10/26/2012
Author: Ryan Salazar |
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Cinematography | Michael Goi, ASC: Shooting TV with the Sony F65
Sony's F65 camera was brand new when seasoned cinematographer Michael Goi, A.S.C. decided to use it to shoot the pilot of the NBC comedy hit The New Normal. A past president of the American Society of Cinematographers, Michael's other recent projects include Glee and the first two seasons of American Horror Story. Goi speaks to Creative COW about using the F65 as well as his preferred workflow for TV.
10/10/2012
Author: Michael Goi, ASC |
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Cinematography | Behind the Lens: David Boyd A.S.C. Talks about 'The Walking Dead'
David Boyd, ASC has lensed 10 episodes of AMC's highly popular 'The Walking Dead,' and also directed the sixth episode of the second season, "Secrets." Creative COW's Debra Kaufman spoke with David about shooting style, lighting and lens choices, and staying out of the way. To celebrate the new season of The Walking Dead, Creative COW Magazine is pleased to reintroduce you to David Boyd, the show's original DP, with unique insights to share on its shooting.
10/09/2012
Author: David Boyd, ASC |
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Cinematography | Canon Showcases C500 at Loyal Studios
At Loyal Studios in Burbank, Canon introduced its latest Cinema EOS camera - the C500 - to a group of cinematographers, directors, producers and other industry players. The C500, which introduces true 4K acquisition, was introduced by the company’s Senior Director of Professional Engineering and Solutions Larry Thorpe. Shown paired with a Codex S recorder, the Canon C500 can also record to devices from five other recorder manufacturers.
10/01/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | Setting Standards for High Frame Rate Digital Cinema
Dave Stump, ASC, is a co-chair of the SMPTE Working Group on High Frame Rate Cinema. The upcoming releases of The Hobbit and Avatar 2 have highlighted a number of issues that the entire filmmaking community is going to have deal with, including exhibitors. A winner of an Academy Award for Technical Achievement as well as a cinematographer, Dave speaks from a variety of perspectives as he describes the early days of progress towards standards for High Frame Rate cinema.
09/26/2012
Author: Dave Stump, ASC |
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Blackmagic Cinema Camera | The Blackmagic Cinema Camera: In Production and Comparison
Calling the Blackmagic Cinema Camera "eagerly anticipated" is an understatement. This camera priced at only $2995 has offered the promise of something truly special since it was announced. OneRiver Media owner Marco Solorio has spent 20 years living just ahead of the curve for both technology and creativity, and here puts both to work in the most comprehensive overview of the Blackmagic Cinema Camera to date. He takes the Cinema Camera through its paces, including some less-than-ideal conditions. There's a neutral grade to keep things fair, and Marco also intentionally left in the rolling shutter and vibration artifacts he found so that you can see what the footage REALLY looks like. Marco even offers comparison footage taken by the Canon 5D Mk III. You definitely don't want to miss this one.
09/25/2012
Author: Marco Solorio |
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Cinematography | Taking 3D Shooting To The Limit -- with 3 Cameras!
HD pioneering cinematographer B. Sean Fairburn, SOC is now working on ways to make 3D cinematography possible for all kinds of difficult and dangerous activities, as well as first-person POVs. He speaks to Creative COW about his work to build rigs that are extremely mobile as well as offering different interocular distances for adapting 3D content to a variety of screen sizes.
09/20/2012
Author: Sean Fairburn, SOC |
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Blackmagic Design | IBC 2012: Blackmagic Design Releases
Blackmagic Design used IBC to debut seven products, including a second version of its camera, the Blackmagic Cinema Camera MFT. The UltraStudio 4K, UltraStudio Mini Monitor and Mini Recorder, and DeckLink 4K Extreme, as well as Mini Converter 4K and Videohub Master Control emphasized the company's focus on 4K and Thunderbolt-enabled products. The company also added support for the ExFAT file system, for Windows users.
09/10/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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IBC Expo | FilmLight at IBC 2012
For FilmLight, IBC is traditionally the show where they debut products shown as new technologies at NAB. FilmLight is living up to the tradition by coming to Amsterdam with a long list of new products: FLIP real-time image processor, Baselight TRANSFER real-time 4K dailies processing system; Baselight Editions; Baselight 4.3, the latest version with new features; BLG (Baselight Grade, an open EXR file format); and FLUX, an expandable 80TB streaming media server. The aim, says co-founder/director Wolfgang Lempp, is to improve productivity to keep up with ever-changing workflows.
09/04/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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ARRI | Codex at IBC 2012
Codex is coming to IBC 2012 with new technology. Although its Onboard S will be shown for the first time at a European tradeshow, the big news is that the company is unveiling its capacity to support Canon Cinema RAW at up to 120 fps at 4K. At an incredibly lightweight and small size, the Onboard S is already being adopted by filmmakers who can benefit from its powerful features and form factor.
08/31/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | Filming a Docu in 2012 London with the Sony PMW-100
Trevor Ward has just returned from London where he was brought on to film a documentary during the games of 2012. The tour involved seventeen interviews, all over London, sometimes in a Cinéma Vérité style. Read the review based on his real-world experience with the new (and very lightweight) Sony PMW-100 camera.
08/28/2012
Author: Trevor Ward |
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DaVinci Resolve | Taking a Bite out of Cookie Monster with Resolve 9
When directors Josh and Jason Diamond called Juan Salvo to color and finish “Share it Maybe,” the music video spoof of the pop hit “Call Me Maybe,” Juan knew he had the perfect tool for the job. As part of the private beta for Blackmagic Design’s Resolve 9, he was able to turn the Cookie Monster into the perfect shade of blue and tackle other challenges, with the lightning speed turnaround that the viral video required.
08/24/2012
Author: Juan Salvo |
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Cinematography | The Truth About 2K, 4K and The Future of Pixels
John Galt, Panavision Senior Vice President of Advanced Digital Imaging, led the team that created the Genesis camera, was responsible for the F900 "Star Wars" camera, and continues to play a leading role in guiding future digital cinema technologies. In this wide-ranging, no-holds barred conversation, John cuts through what he calls the intentional obfuscation of "marketing pixels," and explores the range of high resolution and high frame rate options that are becoming available to filmmakers.
08/23/2012
Author: John Galt |
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Broadcasting | SERIOUSLY SIGGRAPH
SIGGRAPH member, Ryan Salazar highlights a few key products and services from the largest and most complete display of goodies from the computer graphics and interactive techniques industry - an event which boasted over 160 industry organizations exhibited in a mind-blowing 44,750 square feet of exhibit space.
08/15/2012
Author: Ryan Salazar |
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Cinematography | In-Camera Effects: Flip Steps
Many of us tend to jump right to computer generated imagery (CGI) when we think that it will be too expensive, or difficult to accomplish the desired effect practically. On some projects, however, creating an effect practically "in-camera" can be the better choice. On Matthew Zappile's recent production "Flip Steps," they decided to take the "practical effects" route and see if they could do it.
07/31/2012
Author: Matthew Zappile |
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Film History & Appreciation | Who Shot Rock & Roll - Arclight Productions
Arclight Productions just finished an original documentary short, inspired by and presented at the Annenberg Space for Photography's exhibit Who Shot Rock & Roll. The documentary -- Who Shot Rock & Roll: The Film -- was produced and directed by Steven Kochones and celebrates the collaborations between photographers and recording artists who created some of the most enduring images in rock history.
07/06/2012
Author: Steven Kochones |
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Blackmagic Design | The Blackmagic Cinema Camera: Can It Run with the Big Boys
Marco Solorio of OneRiver Media takes another look into Blackmagic Design's new Cinema Camera to see how this camera further excels. With the camera sporting 13 stops of dynamic range through a 12-bit RAW data structure, there's one aspect of production where it truly might be able to hang with the "big boys."
06/20/2012
Author: Marco Solorio |
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Film History & Appreciation | Depth of Field: Gregg Toland, Citizen Kane and Beyond
Whenever somebody equates "shallow depth of field" and "cinematic look," it's good to remember that the opposite is sometimes true. Gregg Toland, ASC was the first master of extreme depth of field, and movies like Citizen Kane and The Grapes of Wrath forever changed what it is possible for humans to do with cameras. Here's a look at what that means for YOUR shooting.
06/14/2012
Author: Tim Wilson |
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Cinematography | Sony DMPC Inaugurates F65 Training Workshop
On Wednesday, June 6, the Sony Digital Motion Picture Center (DMPC), housed in Studio 7 on the Sony Pictures lot, held its first all-day workshop on the F65 camera and its workflow, with weekly free Wednesday workshops to follow for the next two years.
06/13/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Indie Film & Documentary | Behind the Lens: Sky Soldier: A Vietnam Story in 3D
When Major Joel Glenn went to Vietnam in the 1960s, he brought a 3D stereoscopic still camera and audiotape recorder with him to document his experiences for his family back home. Little did he know that 50 years later, his "home movies" would become the basis for Sky Soldier: A Vietnam Story in 3D that airs on Memorial Day on 3net, a tribute to his military service, and those of his fellow soldiers, as well as his extensive archive of 3D photos.
05/28/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Field Production | NAB 2012: K-Tek
K-Tek introduced several products at NAB 2012, including the rugged Shark Wireless Antenna Mount, and a range of tools designed to respond to the ergonomic needs of small form factors such as the GoPro camera and the iPhone. Also debuted was the K-Tek Tripod Mount Case for the iPhone4/4S, which turns the smartphone into a professional camera.
05/10/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Field Production | NAB 2012: Sachtler
Sachtler debuted the Ace tripod system for the first time in the U.S. With a payload of up to 8.8 pounds (4 kilograms), the Ace tripod is ideal for smaller HDV camcorders and video-enabled DSLR cameras.
05/09/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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HD High-End | NAB 2012: Vinten
Vinten introduced its lightweight Vision blue5 pan and tilt head and tripod system, the latest member of its Vinten Vision blue family. Vision blue5 has a carrying capacity range of 12.1-lb to 26.5 lb (5.5kg to 12 kg) and offers a range of other professional features.
05/08/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Field Production | NAB 2012: Petrol Bags
Petrol Bags introduced four new products for audio in addition to the Liteporter for a Litepanels 1x1 LED light fixture, Rolling DigiSuite DSLR Camera Case and two new LCD monitor bags.
05/08/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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HD High-End | NAB 2012: OConnor
Fluid head pioneer OConnor, part of Vitec Videocom, a Vitec Group company, unveiled a 30L carbon fiber tripod, O-Focus Dual Mini follow focus unit, and Universal Camera Baseplate at NAB 2012. Attendees also had the chance to experience hands-on the Ultimate 1030D and Ultimate 1030Ds fluid heads.
05/07/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Lighting Design Pros | NAB 2012: Litepanels
At NAB 2012, Litepanels part of Vitec Videocom, a Vitec Group company, introduced the Croma on-camera LED lighting fixture, the Inca Series tungsten balanced LED Fresnel fixtures, the Sola 4 Daylight Balanced LED Fresnel and the Sola ENG Flight Kit. The company also offered a $100 rebate on the purchases of the Croma variable color temperature LED light and the Sola EMG LED Fresnel lighting fixture.
05/04/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | NAB 2012: Anton/Bauer
At NAB 2012, Anton/Bauer, a part of Vitec Videocom, a Vitec Group company, debuted its QRC-CA940 Gold Mount solution for the new Canon EOS C300 digital cinema camera and also showcased the MATRIX Cheese Plate, a new mounting plate that can be used with the company's Gold Mount Solutions for the Sony PMW-F3 camera and NEX-FS-100; Canon EOS 5D Mark II, EOS 7D, EOS 60D Digital SLR camera and the EOS C300; Panasonic AG-AF100 series professional HD camera and RED EPIC digital cinema camera. The company also unveiled its Customer Support On-Site Maintenance Program.
05/04/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Sony Vegas | NAB 2012: Sony Creative Software
Sony Creative Software had a fruitful NAB 2012, introducing two particularly interesting audio and video editing tools: Spectral Layers, which lets audio professionals precisely de-construct and change an audio mix, and TemplateBuilder, which maximizes creative time spent on motion graphics. Vegas Pro 11 was also highlighted and Sony also soft-launched DO Studio, the Blu-ray authoring tool acquired earlier from Netblender.
04/30/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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JVC cameras/decks | NAB 2012: JVC
JVC had a dynamic year for cameras and monitors. The company released the new GY-HM650 handheld mobile news camera, the result of its intention to support the Advanced Media Workflow Association "AS-10: MXF for Production" project. The company also released a 4K camcorder for $5,550, and came out with several new mercury-free monitors.
04/30/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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NAB Expo | NAB 2012: Blackmagic Design's Dan May Talks about The Camera
While at NAB 2012, Debra Kaufman sat down with Blackmagic Design President Dan May to talk about the Blackmagic Cinema Camera as well as other news from the company, including Teranex 2D and Teranex 3D Processors, a new family of high-end broadcast standards converter processors, and a release of the Desktop Video 9.5 software update with support for Adobe Premiere Pro CS6 video software using Blackmagic Design's DeckLink, UltraStudio and Intensity capture.
04/25/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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NAB Expo | NAB 2012 is in the books, final thoughts...
Walter Biscardi went to NAB 2012 with every intention of documenting each day and sharing the vast (and often overwhelming) wealth of information he would glean from the NAB SHOW floor. Well, day one left him needing tons of caffeine, and a lot more sleep - so we're wrapping up now, after a flight home and some time for Walter to catch his breath.
04/24/2012
Author: Walter Biscardi |
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DSLR Video | Is the New Blackmagic Cinema Camera the HDSLR Killer?
Marco Solorio of OneRiver Media dissects Blackmagic Design's new Cinema Camera to see if it is in fact, the much-anticipated HDSLR-killer everyone's been waiting for over the years. But with a comparatively smaller sensor size and radical body design, does it fit the bill as the killer we all want?
04/18/2012
Author: Marco Solorio |
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NAB Expo | NAB 2012: Canon Unveils 4K Cameras
At NAB 2012, Canon jumps to 4K resolution with the release of two new cameras. The Cinema EOS C500 is the next step up from the Cinema EOS C300, introduced last November, and comes in both PL-mount and EF-mount versions. Also new is the 4K EOS-1D C DSLR, incorporating Canon Log Gamma.
04/12/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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NAB Expo | NAB 2012: FilmLight FLIPs for End-to-End Color
FilmLight introduces FLIP, a new real-time image processing product that's an end-to-end color pipeline solution. Also new is the near-set dailies solution Baselight Transfer and Baselight 4.3, the latest software version with many new features.
04/10/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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NAB Expo | AFrame Brings Its Cloud-Based Services to North America
Just in time for NAB 2012, Aframe, a browser-based cloud video production platform, has announced that it's landed on North American shores, with operations in New York and Los Angeles. Aframe will highlight the features of its service - a private cloud infrastructure - in the Cloud Pavilion at NAB.
04/06/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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What Computer Should I Buy? | HP's Valentine to the Media & Entertainment Industry
HP unveils the HP Z1, an all-in-one workstation features include a 27-inch screen, a 30-bit panel with an over-1 billion color palette, a built-in HD video camera, SRS premium sound speakers, an array of microphones for stereo inputs and optional NVIDIA cards, for a combination of power and expandability never before seen in an all-in-one system: a true, professional-strength workstation.
02/14/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | The SciTech Award Goes to... the Stab-C Classic, Super-G & Stab-C Compact Stabilizing Heads
At the 84th Annual Academy Awards for Technical Achievements, Nettmann Systems International's "versatile family of 5-axis camera and lens stabilizers" will be honored with a SciTech Award: to E.F. "Bob" Nettmann for the concept and system architecture, Michael Sayovitz for the electronic packaging and integration, Brad Fritzel for the electronic engineering, and Fred Miller for the mechanical engineering of the Stab-C Classic, Super-G and Stab-C Compact stabilizing heads.
01/31/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Sony F Series & PDW Series Cameras | Cinéma Vérité with the Sony PMW-F3
Two-time Creative Arts Emmy Award™ winner Zach Zamboni puts the cinéma vérité in cinema with the Sony PMW-F3. More sensitivity in the F3 means more possibilities -- shooting longer after sunset, more available light and more ambient fire in on-the-fly situations.
01/24/2012
Author: Zach Zamboni |
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Panasonic VariCam | The Panasonic AG-AC160
Panasonic has several camcorders with similar build, but different underlying core technologies -- specifically, the AC160/130 and the HPX250. The key difference between them, respectively, is 4:2:0 MP4 GOP at 1920x1080 resolution and AVCCAM recording as high at 21Mbps, versus 10-bit, 4:2:2 independent-frame, 1920 x 1080 resolution AVC-Intra 100 recording. For those who find AVCHD sufficient, but want a full-on camcorder solution without additional workarounds needed compared to more consumer cameras, the AC160 is meant to fit in your hand.
01/24/2012
Author: Anthony Burokas |
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Cinematography | The SciTech Award Goes To...The Pictorvision Eclipse
On February 11, at the 84th Annual Academy Awards® for Technical Achievements, Michael Lewis, Greg Marsden, Raigo Alas and Michael Vellekoop will receive a Scientific and Engineering Academy Award for the concept, design and implementation of the Pictorvision Eclipse, an electronically stabilized aerial camera platform.
01/23/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Panasonic HVX - HPX (P2) | Panasonic's P2 Wins an Emmy
Panasonic's industry-changing P2 Solid State recording format has been honored with a Technology & Engineering Emmy Award for its "pioneering development of removable solid-state media for video camera/recorders."
01/19/2012
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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MAYA | VFX Soup: Tintin VFX Supe Joe Letteri Talks 3D and Mocap
Four-time VFX Oscar-winner Joe Letteri describes the advanced technology behind Steven Spielberg's The Adventures of Tintin, discussing his own adventures with virtual cameras, motion capture, 3D, and three years of pre-production with the team at Weta Digital.
12/20/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | 4K DI on The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo
Re-teaming with director David Fincher after their successful collaboration on The Social Network, Michael Cioni and the team at Light Iron built 5K workflows for real time, full resolution post for Fincher's The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. The running time of the 4K print is 2:38, creating a data size larger than six 2K features combined. Cioni and Light Iron co-founder Ian Vertovec spoke to Creative COW's Debra Kaufman about how working that way in real time is even possible, working with David Fincher, and what frame sizes larger than 4K mean for all of us.
12/14/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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 | High-frame rate projectors a highlight at ShowEast
High-frame rate cinema is coming, and Digital Cinema system manufacturers are getting ready. In an industry focused on the challenges and issues surrounding 3D capture and distribution, high-frame rate cinema opens up a new arena of research and discussion.
11/07/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Stereoscopic 3D | 3D Rigs Get Faster, Smaller, Lighter with HELIOS
HELIOS is the new wireless, self-contained 3D stereo rig from 3D stereo camera pioneers Paradise FX. EPIC, Alexa and F3 shooters take note: because HELIOS is untethered, lightweight and self-contained, a Steadicam operator can move as freely as on a 2D shoot.
10/28/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | Film Fading to Black
ARRI, Panavision and Aaton have all quietly ceased production of their film cameras to focus exclusively on the design and manufacture of digital cameras. Film? Fade to black.
10/06/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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IBC Expo | High-speed cameras roll at IBC 2011
IBC boasted hot new high-speed cameras, with P+S Technik introducing a "time effect" or digital cinematography synch sound camera with a 35mm-sized CMOS imager and global shutter that offers slow motion, fast motion, ramped motion and time-lapse motion.
09/23/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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IBC Expo | IBC: Grass Valley debuts Karrera, LDK 3000+ and Stratus
At IBC 2011, Grass Valley introduced several projects that focus on the mid-range market and on solutions. Offerings include the Karrera video production switcher, the LDK 3000+ multiformat HD camera, and the STRATUS Media Workflow Application Framework.
09/19/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | The Sony F65 CineAlta Digital Cinema Camera
The latest member of the Sony CineAlta family of digital cinema cameras is the F65. One of the hottest cameras at NAB 2011, new details include pricing and availability, as well as a closer look at its impressive and unique features, including a rotary shutter option, and full support for IIF-ACES workflows.
09/06/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | Behind the Lens: Bobby Bukowski, Cinematographer
Bobby Bukowski offers an inside look at one of the first features shot with ARRI Alexa ProRes, and how the camera completely reshaped the cinematographer's approach to 360-lighting. Bobby also talks about the DP's role as one of the characters on a set where actors don't rehearse, and preparation is the key.
09/06/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Broadcasting | Alfacam to cover 750 cricket matches in India
750 matches over the next three years in India alone, each featuring as many as 30 cameras: Alfacam's coverage of one of the world’s most popular sports for some of its most passionate fans will shoot exclusively with Grass Valley cameras.
09/06/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | Takuo Miyagishima, Panavision Innovator
Takuo Miyagishima was both the spirit of Panavision and the creator of innumerable camera, lens and accessory inventions that include Primo anamorphic lenses, Panaflex camera system and the Super Panatar projection lens. This tribute illuminates some of the accomplishments of this imaging innovator, and the influence he has had on over 50 years of filmmaking.
08/31/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Film History & Appreciation | 'Children of Paradise' restored to 4K
Children of Paradise [Les Enfants du Paradis] is perhaps the most stunning classic film you've probably never seen. The movie was made in 1943 - 1944, when the Nazis forbade the making of films longer than 90 minutes, and released in 1945. It was last shown in the U.S. 30 years ago, despite the fact that 600 French critics, directors, actors and technicians have voted it as "Best French Film Ever." Join Debra Kaufman as she brings the restoration of this classic beauty to light the story of how Éclair Labs in Paris battled a disintegrating nitrate original.
08/24/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Film History & Appreciation | Coloring Game of Thrones
HBO's Game of Thrones is a rich palette of colour and display. Ireland's Screen Scene Post Production took on the task of enhancing the balance between worlds so vastly different, that colour play was a powerful component to straddling the extremes. Debra Kaufman looks into the slew of talent that brought these fantasy realms to light.
08/19/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | Charting Your Camera
One of the industry's most respected specialists offers some tips on how to use camera calibration charts and vectorscopes to make your camera images the best they can be.
05/11/2011
Author: Gary Adcock |
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NAB Expo | Codex Digital debuts on-set lab for RED, ARRI and Sony
Thousands of members of Creative COW were at the 2011 NAB Show, and we are pleased to bring you some of their reports. In this entry, Debra Kaufman found at NAB 2011, Codex Digital unveiled The Vault, a standalone solution with its own internal drives, providing a single, standardized workflow for productions employing multiple camera systems. IIF/ACES dailies workflow also demonstrated.
04/28/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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NAB Expo | ARRI's big year for products and partnerships
Thousands of members of Creative COW were at the 2011 NAB Show, and we are pleased to bring you some of their reports. In this entry with Debra Kaufman reporting, Alexa M, LED Fresnels and the Cameron-Pace Group partnership are highlights.
04/27/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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NAB Expo | FilmLight Baselight for FCP. It's a serious color tool.
Thousands of members of Creative COW were at the 2011 NAB Show, and we are pleased to bring you some of their reports. In this entry, Walter Biscardi at NAB 2011, had the opportunity for a 1 on 1 demo of the full Baselight color correction system and it's "little cousin", the plug-in that "allows you to bring a ridiculously powerful color correction system directly inside of Final Cut Pro" (and other hosts).
04/27/2011
Author: Walter Biscardi |
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NAB Expo | 3ality Digital shifts the 3D equation
Thousands of members of Creative COW were at the 2011 NAB Show, and we are pleased to bring you some of their reports. In this entry, Debra Kaufman highlights for the COW@NAB series: new tools bring costs day, efficiencies up for 3ality Digital with IntelleMatte, an S3D graphics application, also IntelleMotion, IntelleCam, and IntelleCal.
04/26/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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NAB Expo | NAB 2011 3D Recap with Angela Gyetvan
Thousands of members of Creative COW were at the 2011 NAB Show, and we are pleased to bring you some of their reports. In this entry, Angela Gyetvan brings a recap of the 2011 NAB Show with the headliners and exciting new goodies. Sony added to its 3D arsenal by positioning its PMW-F3 camera alongside the RED camera systems and the Panasonic 3D-A1; the RED EPIC made its live debut, mounted on handheld rigs from Element Technica and 3ality Digital; and so much more.
04/21/2011
Author: Angela Gyetvan |
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NAB Expo | FilmLight makes strategic moves at NAB 2011
Thousands of members of Creative COW were at the 2011 NAB Show, and we are pleased to bring you some of their reports. The simple story is that NAB is about showcasing new products. But the meta-story is that NAB is about strategy, branding and positioning. That’s what was on Debra Kaufman's mind when she saw the very interesting one-two punch of new products at the FilmLight suite at the Renaissance Hotel.
04/20/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Cinematography | Behind the Lens: Paul Cameron, ASC
"Henry's Crime", described by DP Paul Cameron, ASC as a "fable of sorts...with a folkloric beauty" is the topic as Debra Kaufman interviews Paul Cameron. Facing challenges such as limited budget, a short shooting schedule, difficult lighting and -20 degrees Fahrenheit weather all add to the mystique of a film playing out in a "classics style" storybook effect and elegant cinematography. Join Paul and Debra for a look behind making this fascinating tale come to life.
03/31/2011
Author: Debra Kaufman |
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Blackmagic Design | Bright Lights, Big Signage
"Activate the Space" builds on their experience in post and broadcast to rewrite the rules of digital signage for some of the world’s most visible stages and public spaces.
03/16/2011
Author: Chris Pelzar |
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Cinematography | Dreams of Freedom
Centered around flight as a metaphor for freedom, the "Storyville Live" project and the short film "Flyboy" contribute to ending the very real and ongoing slavery of millions.
03/16/2011
Author: Stephen Campbell |
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COWmunications feedback | Divergence
Every now and then, a hype word comes along that actually means something... Divergence is fun for us as media consumers. It’s a nightmare for us as media makers, though. The trick is to embrace the delight consumers find in all this divergence, and to let it soothe the stabbing pain between our eyes as producers. No problem, right? Right.
09/21/2010
Author: Tim Wilson |
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Cinematography | Camera and Lens Round-Up
Gary Adcock explores and reviews many of the high-end cameras, lenses, monitors, and camera support gear introduced at NAB 2010 in this acquisition and display report.
06/23/2010
Author: Gary Adcock |
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DSLR Video | HDSLRs for Video: Beyond the Hype
There has been an amazing amount of chatter around the HD video capabilities of recent still cameras - if they can still be called that! Rather than play into the hupe of what MIGHT be possible with these cameras, Creative COW Magazine Contributing Editor Marco Solorio takes you inside the real world of production with paying clients using these cameras, including workarounds for their current limitations, and some of the things that video shooters will need to know as they get started using these cameras.
03/16/2010
Author: Marco Solorio |
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Cinematography | The Redrock Micro DSLR Cinema Bundle for the Canon 5D MKII
If you are using the Canon 5D MKII or Nikon D90 for their gorgeous HD video, or even thinking about it, you need to read this. Creative COW Contributing Editor Jim Harvey shows how the Redrock Micro DSLR Bundle makes these cameras even more useful for video shooters, then shows how he and other pros are using it, in the field and in the studio. Jim is enthusiastic about the possiblities it opens up, and thinks you will be too.
06/23/2009
Author: Jim Harvey |
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Cinematography | Focus on Controlling Depth of Field with Depth of Field Converters
Cinematographer and Creative Cow leader Todd Terry has shot countless television commercials and industrials using both 35mm film and depth-of-field converted video. In this Creative Cow Magazine Extra, from The Visual Effects Issue, learn how depth of field converters allow you to attach 35mm lenses even to video cameras with fixed lenses, how they work, and which one might be right for you.
02/10/2009
Author: Todd Terry |
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Art of the Edit | Metadata & The Future of Filmmaking
Dave Stump, ASC has worked as a DP, effects cinematographer and VFX supervisor on dozens of films including Quantum of Solace, X-men and X-men 2, The Bourne Identity, Army of Darkness, Star Trek: First Contact, Batman Forever and many more. He chairs the American Society of Cinemtagraphers subcommittees on Cameras, and Metadata. In this expanded version of an interview first published in Creative Cow Magazine, Dave describes a possible future for filmmaking -- faster, less expensive, and more creative -- as cameras and metadata come together.
12/16/2008
Author: Dave Stump |
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Lighting Design Pros | Lighting with Shadows
In this extended version of his article in the Creative Cow Visual Effects Issue, lighting expert and instructor Rick Wise draws on his decades of experience to illustrate how shadows can be the most important part of how a scene is lit. Learn how to control the direction and quality of your lighting design to add texture, dimension, and force to your images.
12/02/2008
Author: Rick Wise |
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Lighting Design Pros | Westward Ho!
A wild ride of an edit: shot on film, projected onto five screens. In this Creative COW Magazine article Mike Sullivan discusses some of the problems such as lighting and color interaction he faced in a project he did for National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper, Wyoming.
09/03/2008
Author: Mike Sullivan |
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Sony EX Series XDCAM | On Stage with the Sony XDCAM HD
When your corporate clients are as big as Wembley Stadium, a small camera will not do. Besides, Rick Bronks was not interested in HDV or in tapeless shooting that cost more than tape. Enter XDCAM HD.
08/19/2008
Author: Rick Bronks |
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Cinematography | Finding the Heart of the ARRI D20 Digital Camera
With HD, Thomas says he ''has the ability to finesse color, exposure and contrast in the color correction suite. I used to look down my nose at video but RAW 4:4:4 is more creative, efficient.'' In this Creative COW Magazine article, Thomas Burstyn takes a look at the Arri D20 as he films Sci-Fi's Tin Man.
02/26/2008
Author: Thomas Burstyn |
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RED Camera | RED: Early Workflow Findings
In this real world video production RED Camera review from The Creative COW Magazine, Aaron Zander discusses how The Brooks Institute students put RED ONE through the paces of a student production. Here are their findings.
02/11/2008
Author: Aaron Zander |
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Panasonic HVX - HPX (P2) | P2 Digital Workflows with the Panasonic HPX500
Don't be afraid of digital workflows, says Mark. And don't be afraid to spend money on the right camera. In this Creative COW Magazine article, Mark Wagoner discusses workflow when working with the Panasonic HPX500 in comparison to the HVX200 and other cameras.
02/03/2008
Author: Mark Wagoner |
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Audio Professionals | Audio Mixing for DV and HDV: PSC DV Promix 3
Brandt Sleeper shows how PSCs DV ProMix 3 will help your DV and HDV recordings sound better than ever -- bars and tone, calibration, for one or several cameras. Could this be the field mixer youve been waiting for?
12/15/2007
Author: Brandt Sleeper |
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Audio Professionals | Why Use a Mixer?
Want to know why you should be using a mixer and an external mic instead of your cameras onboard mic? After years shooting for clients including National Geographic, NFL Film and Oprah, as well as production for his own company, hell give you the background you need to make your work sound its best.
12/13/2007
Author: Brandt Sleeper |
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Audio Professionals | Field Mixing with the PSC AlphaMix
In this review from producer and professor Brandt Sleeper, he takes you on trip through this field mixers exceptional feature set, including support for multiple cameras and NP-1 power. He also puts it through its paces on a segment for Good Morning America.
12/09/2007
Author: Brandt Sleeper |
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Canon Cameras | Film-Style Shooting with the Canon XL H1
Interchangeable lenses and powerful, accessible controls make the Canon XL H1 the choice at Fantastic Plastic. In this Creative COW Magazine prosumer hd digital video camera review, Todd Terry discusses the real world pros and cons of the Canon XL H1.
10/27/2007
Author: Todd Terry |
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Cinematography | Time Lapse Video Secrets: HD and Beyond with your Digital Camera
You already know that your digital camera has higher-than-HD resolution -- even higher than film res sometimes -- and the pictures can look amazing. It turns out that your still camera actually works better than an HD video camera for creating time-lapse photography. Marco Solorio tells you how to put it all together.
10/10/2007
Author: Marco Solorio |
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Panasonic HVX - HPX (P2) | Making History with Panasonic P2 and the HVX200
In this reprint from Creative COW Magazine, Creative Cow leader and broadcast editor Shane Ross uses his work for The History Channel to illustrate end-to-end workflow using P2 media and the Panasonic HVX200: from a multi-camera shoot in the middle of blazing gunfire, all the way to your living room.
09/24/2007
Author: Shane Ross |
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HDV Format | Building the Perfect HDV Key
In the first of our Creative COW Magazine Web Extras, we begin with Stephen Smiths outstanding article on setting up an area for proper keying from the May-June 2007 edition. His article covers every option for setting up and lighting perfect keys. Here, we look at the best advice around The COWs online communities for pulling keys from HDV footage.
06/15/2007
Author: Tim Wilson |
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Business & Marketing | To Be or Not To Be Self-Employed
Self-employment may be your personal path to riches and enlightenment, or it may be one of the worst choices you'll ever make. In this article, Creative COW's Nick Griffin discusses the pros, cons and realities of starting your own business and gets into some of the things that should be considered before making the leap.
06/10/2007
Author: Nick Griffin |
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Sony F900 & PDW Series | Sony XDCAM HD PDW-F350: First Impressions
In this prosumer hd dv camcorder review from The Creative COW Magazine, Timothy Duncan discusses his first impressions with the CineAlta-branded XDCAM HD PDW-F350, along with the PDW-F70 recording deck. Sony's XDCAM HD F350 is an optical disc-based variableframe-rate camera that shoots in both HD and Standard Definition DVCam.
05/04/2006
Author: Timothy Duncan |
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