Camera
DV Format
Whether your need is broadcast production or simply the very best picture quality, the miniDV format delivers more than 500 lines of horizontal resolution - nearly a 25% improvement in picture quality over the best analog formats. The tape formulation is advanced to last longer and even withstand repeated use without failure, virtually eliminating drop out and delivering higher output and less noise.
Camera testing
Shooting tests with your camera may seem like a hassle and an unnecessary waste of time and money but it is neglible when you compare it to the cost of a reshoot (if a reshoot is possible.) Most camera rental houses post disclaimers which protect them from liabilty. It is always smart to check your camera at the rental house before your shoot.
Cinema Electronica
A Byte or Two of History. Getting to know what DV can be, other than a cheap rubber stamp of tired old film-biz cliches.
Digital Video
There was once a line in between film and video and one did not cross it. However, with all the buzz and excitement surrounding digital video, it’s hard to discuss making an independent low budget feature without addressing the option of shooting on video. The film snobs who have looked down on video as mediocre and amateur aren’t so certain in their disdain for lowly video as more and more indie features appear that are shot on video and transferred to film. Video has come a long way and the quality is indeed impressive but there are a number of issues to keep in mind if you plan on using video for your shoot.
DV Camera DSR-150
You've probably already heard about Sony's DSR- PD150 DV/DVCAM camcorder. In fact, these camcorders have been in such demand that we had a hard time getting our hands on one for a comprehensive review. Finally we got one, so we can share with you several reviewers' experiences with the camera that aims to one-up its predecessors. The major improvements include more professional audio features and a flip-out LCD screen, but there are more subtle enhancements as well.
HD for Cinema
With the transition to digital television finally underway after years of delays and false starts, the case for producing television with high-definition (HD) video has become intriguing, at least for everyone who feels that their content will be of lasting interest. But in the world of theatrical features, where programming is ultimately viewed on film, the case for HD is less obvious. Why shoot on video if you intend to distribute and exhibit on film? And why-unless you're doing a remake of The Blair Witch Project-risk ending up with a video look instead of a rich and warm film look?
HD Introduction
Hi-definition video (HDTV) is examined as a viable (and preferred) format over mini-DV and 16mm for independent productions by Pablo Toledo, director of "Runnin' At Midnite
HD Production
When you gather a crew together there is generally some excitement in working on something larger than one individual can do. To show up on a shoot with an XL1 or VX1000--a camera probably everyone from the gaffer to grip has in his or her closet--really tests a crew's resolve and hierarchy. To offer a crew the chance to work HDTV is a little more enticing. Now, if we were doing a film with 40 scenes, mostly interiors, and in one week, then maybe I wouldn't worry as much; but we have 170 scenes, more than 20 locations, and being a character piece, we have 5 main characters and over 15 secondaries, and a ton of extras. It is vital to have the crew excited and 100% committed to pull this off, and having HDTV to offer them is a huge asset.
Lens Testing
To be certain of consistent color reproduction and optical performance, test your lenses before use.
What is super16?
Super 16 is a widescreen format of 16 mm film. Normal 16mm film has perforations on both edges of the film. However, except for the specialty high speed cameras, all 16mm cameras only utilize one row of perforations. Super 16 takes advantage of this by eliminating one of the rows of perforations. This allows the image to be extended an extra 2mm to the films edge. This translates into a few remarkable advantages for the film maker.
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