An amateur journey of digital recording
Archive for April, 2011
Schneider Brings Large-Format Camera Perspective Performance to DSLRs
Apr 17th
Schneider Optics announces a new family of PC-TS (Perspective Control through Tilt / Shift) lenses, designed to provide creative DSLR and medium format photographers a tool that allows them to control perspective in the manner previously possible only with a monorail-style camera.
The development of digital single-lens reflex cameras has revolutionized professional photography. However, until recently, studio and architectural photographers wishing to control perspective, have had to employ a monorail-style view camera. Schneider’s PC-TS lenses provide the bridge between the convenience of DSLR and other medium format digital cameras, and the performance of a view camera.
The PC-TS lenses can shift laterally up to 12mm, or tilt at an angle up to 8 degrees. These movements can be applied in 30 degree increments at any position within the 360 degree lens rotation and with a huge 90mm image circle (DSLR) and 120mm image circle (Mamiya), the lens retains its full range of movements without vignetting. This superior quality system features Schneider’s high-resolution optics and a precise, zero-play mechanism. The use of the highest grade materials and careful craftsmanship ensures long-term stability users can rely on.
Schneider currently offers three PC-TS lenses: the Super Angulon f2.8 50mm and the Makro-Symmar f4.0 90mm PC-TS lens for DSLR cameras and the Apo-Digitar 5.6/120 HM Aspheric lens, designed for the medium format Mamiya/Phase One System digital cameras.
For more information contact Schneider Optics, Inc., TEL: 800-645-7239, 631 761-5000; or 818-766-3715; EMAIL: info@schneideroptics.com, or visit www.schneideroptics.com.
Innovision Intros new Kamtrax Vertical and Horizontal Camera Slider
Apr 17th
Innovision Optics, known for game-changing optical and moving camera devices, announces the debut of the new Kamtrax vertical and horizontal camera slider. Kamtrax is the first slider on the market to provide weightless vertical tracking camera movement.
To add vertical travel production value through an easy to set up accessory, Kamtrax provides weightless and ultra-smooth vertical camera movement via sealed ball-bearing wheels running along an anodized stainless steel track. Kamtrax is available in 3 and 6 foot lengths. Both ends can be attached to various mounts including 100mm ball, Mitchell plate or High Hat. The bottom of the track features a heavy-duty ball-bearing ring which allows the track to pivot around endlessly.
A continuous cable surrounds the track end-to-end, providing control of camera travel up and down the track. Camera packages weighing up to 40 pounds (18.2 kg) can be mounted on Kamtrax. To render the camera weightless, the same amount of weight in barbell disks are attached to the other side of the continuous cable. The camera can then be raised or lowered using the power of a single finger, and the camera can be positioned at any point up or down the track without being locked off. The camera platform can swing down 90-degrees and be locked off at any point in between for a Dutch tilt.
The camera package can be mounted directly to the camera platform via 3/8” or ¼” threaded bolt, or with a pan and tilt head between camera and platform to provide pan and tilt control. Camera operators can view camera video output via their own flat-panel monitor mounted to the Kamtrax by an optional bracket.
Alternatively, by using the Kamtrax Horizontal Kit, the track can be oriented horizontally in minutes to provide a side-to-side slider with the same smooth travel. Angular travel can also be achieved through the optional Angle Slider Kit.
Optional durable travel cases are available for the 3 foot and 6 foot Kamtrax, as well as for its accessory kits.
For more information on sales or rental of Innovision products, please contact: Mark Centkowski at: Innovision Optics, 1719 21st Street, Santa Monica, CA 90404, Tel: (310) 453-4866, Fax: (310) 453-4677, E-Mail: sales@innovision-optics.com
Sachtler Support for DSLR at NAB 2011
Apr 17th
Sachtler, a Vitec Group brand, presents the Cine DSLR fluid head at NAB 2011 in booth C6032. The new support is ideal for digital single-lens reflex cameras with video function for three reasons: the unique proprietary camera plate features an anti-twist retainer for HDSLR cameras, the professional ten-step counterbalance system, as well as Sachtler’s signature damping that offers three vertical and three horizontal grades of drag (+0) to ful-fill the requirements for precise panning and professional operation.
The payload range of 1 to 11 lbs (0.5 to 5 kg) is constructed so that heavier lenses or ac-cessories can be used while filming. Additionally, the fluid head works with classic Sachtler Speedbalance technology, which enables a fast and target-oriented counterbalance of the camera set-up. Furthermore, the long sliding range of the camera plate as well as the self-illuminating Touch Bubble are typical Sachtler features. The Cine DSLR has a tilt range of +90° to -75°.
From fluid head to camera stabilizer system
In addition to the Cine DSLR, Sachtler will display its renowned camera support systems such as the FSB 4 and FSB 6 75mm heads, the SOOM System, the ENG / EFP updated classic Video 18 S1 and Video 20 S1, as well as the Cine 7+7 HD and Cine 30 HD heads. Sachtler will also present two versions of modular camera stabilizer systems, the artemis Handheld for lightweight HDV and HDSLR cameras and the artemis Cine HD Pro which features dual video processing and HiCap wiring. The Hot-Swap technology provides an uninterrupted power supply when changing batteries.
Sachtler Live Events
In the Vitec Live Event area, part of the Vitec Group exhibition booth, hot topics and tips will be featured in eight daily 30 minute sessions. For Sachtler, New York-based cinema-tographer Michael Huss will show the Sachtler Cine DSLR and the artemis Handheld. He will speak about “HDSLR in Focus” on Monday 2:30 pm, Tuesday 11:30 am, and Wednes-day 2 pm. The member of the Wendelin Sachtler Academy will also be a key speaker on Wednesday 12 noon. He shares his extensive knowledge of the industry with his presenta-tion “Latest filming and lighting techniques showcase”. Visit www.vitecliveevent.com for the itinerary of the whole event.
For more information visit www.sachtler.com or contact: Sachtler, 709 Executive Blvd., Valley College, NY 10989, Phone: 845-268-0100, Fax: 845-268-0113, Email: info-cd-usa@vitecgroup.com