Panasonic’s HD 3D Camcorder Revealed at CES

I had the chance to examine Panasonic’s HD 3D camcorder the day before it was announced at their press conference. It records on SD flash media. The camcorder is for the professional market, but it is small in size. I was able to operate it with one hand, but it was not long enough to rest on my shoulder, so it was a little heavy.

Unlike typical 2D video (where both of the viewer’s eyes see the same image), 3D imaging relies upon serving each of the viewer’s eyes with a different image. This requires the camcorder to record two video signals, therefore, it has two lenses, two image sensors and two SD card slots. The camera operator can choose the point of convergence of the two images. Playback of the 3D video requires a 3D monitor (LCD or Plasma) with two video jacks, and the viewer must wear battery-powered 3D glasses.

I just saw the motion picture Avatar in 3D a few days ago. It was an incredible experience. Little did I know that, less than a week later, I would be holding a 3D camcorder in my hand. The image from Panasonic’s 3D camcorder is incredible.