Posts Tagged ‘HDSLR’

Petrol Bags introduces Digibag an HDSLR Camera Bag

by Derek Sine | October 7th, 2010

Petrol Bags has released the new Digibag HDSLR Camera Bag. This semi-hard cushioned carrier is designed to safeguard a video-enabled HDSLR camera and important accessories while on the go. Petrol’s Digibag combines a smart, streamlined design in black 900D and ballistic nylon fabrics with features designed to offer the ultimate convenience and equipment protection.

The Digibag’s top flap opens extra wide for instant access to the bag’s main compartment. The upper section is contoured to fit a HDSLR camera with the lens attached. The hinged floor of this section lifts to reveal twin pockets perfect for stashing extra lenses or spare batteries. Two levels of removable internal dividers help secure contents and create pockets for storing a mattebox, camera plate, follow focus, camera light, viewfinder, cables and more. Contents are surrounded and cushioned by layers of soft padded red Brushed Polyester. Additional features include an ergonomic carrying handle, padded shoulder strap, and Petrol Bags’ hallmark dual-directional easy glide zippers.

Painting Light with an iPad

by Derek Sine | October 7th, 2010

BERG and Dentsu London have been exploring and perfecting the ability to use an iPad to create 3D stop animation using a complex light painting technique. By developing 3D models they are able to perform a virtual CAT Scan that generates an outline of the animations, this paired with a strategic series of complex long exposures of 3-6 seconds while moving the iPad through space, they’ve come up with some stellar floating 3D light forms. The Crew shot over 5,500 photographs, only half of those were actually used in the final edit!

Panasonic Announces GH2

by Derek Sine | September 22nd, 2010

Panasonic has announced the LUMIX DMC-GH2, a hybrid touch-control camera featuring full HD recording. The lightweight LUMIX GH2 is newly designed with an easy-to-hold grip and includes a refined image processing engine and sensor that delivers fast, sharp photos, full HD video recording, and the ability to take 3D photos with Panasonic’s new interchangeable 3D lens. In addition, the intuitive touch-control operation provides ease of use in shooting and playback.

The LUMIX GH2 combines features for both the videographer and photographer, making it a true hybrid digital camera. A dedicated button on the top of the camera lets users instantly record videos while shooting photos without changing any extra settings. Building on the momentum of its successful predecessor, the LUMIX GH1 – the LUMIX GH2 can now record full HD 1920 x 1080 videos in smooth 60i, doubling the sensor output from 25p/24p to 50p/60p2. The camera also supports 1080/24p native mode at 24 Mbps, the highest in AVCHD format, for richly expressive video.

Speed is at the core of the LUMIX GH2, with technological advancements including a new 16.05-megapixel multi-aspect LIVE MOS sensor for higher image resolution and improved signal-to-noise ratio. The LIVE MOS sensor also allows high speed burst shooting at 5 frames per second in full resolution using a mechanical shutter. Working together with the Live MOS sensor, the new Venus Engine FHD processor manages multiple signals at a high speed, making it possible to record high resolution consecutive shots and full HD video recording. The Venus Engine FHD also features advanced signal processing capabilities, including: separation of chromatic and luminance noise for clear images, prevention of color mixture and selective noise reduction for more crisp photos and video recording. The LUMIX GH2 also features faster AF, reducing detection time for focusing to approximately 0.1 second3 by doubling the drive speed from 60 frames per second to 120 frames per second.

The LUMIX GH2 features intuitive touch-control operation, made popular with the LUMIX G2 for its outstanding usability in shooting and playback. The LUMIX GH2 combines the easy-to-see free-angle Intelligent LCD with the newly developed Multi Aspect Wide Screen LVF (Live View Finder) for more comfortable shooting from any angle.

The LUMIX G Series continues to expand its variety of interchangeable lenses with a total of 11 exclusive lenses, three announced today: the world’s first1 interchangeable 3D lens LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 (H-FT012), a new single focal length lens LUMIX G 14mm / F2.5 ASPH (H-H014), and new telephoto zoom lens LUMIX G VARIO 100-300mm / F4.0-5.6 / MEGA O.I.S. (H-FS100300).

In addition to LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX GH2 and other LUMIX G Series digital cameras can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds System standard via an optional mount adaptor DMW-MA1 and with the prestigious Leica M/R Lenses via DMW-MA2M or MA3R7. Additional accessories include external flashes, filters, a stereo microphone, a remote shutter, HDMI mini cables and a variety of stylish straps and bags.

The Panasonic LUMIX GH2 will be available in black and silver models in early December in three different kit options for a suggested retail price of: $899.95 (Body only); $999.95 (Body with lens LUMIX G VARIO 14-42 mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S.); $1,499.95 (Body with lens LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S.).

Nikon Releases D7000

by Derek Sine | September 20th, 2010

Nikon recently released the D7000, Nikon’s answer to Canon’s release of the new 60D. The D7000 offers manual exposure control and continuous auto focus while shooting full 1080p HD video at 24fps. The D7000 is by far Nikon’s best video capable DSLR on the market today and packs a powerful punch. Chase Jarvis got his hands on an early version of the D7000 and has posted up a video, you can see it below. We can’t wait to get our hands on one for review to see how it compares to Canon’s 60D – we will keep you posted with all the latest.

HDSLRs in 1000 FPS Glory!

by Derek Sine | September 13th, 2010

The video below shows the true potential of HDSLRs; slow motion paired with stunning depth of field. Previously to capture something remotely close to the results shown in this video required one to rent an expensive high-speed Phantom camera or shoot rolls of film. However, this video was shot on the Canon 7D at 60FPS then stretched out to 1000FPS in After Effects using the plug-in Twixtor. Twixtor allows you to speed up and slow down footage by warping and interpolating frames of the original sequence with stunning results!

If you’re shooting action sports sequences and still rolling costly film to get slow motion paired with the unrivaled depth of field film captures, HDSLRs are an affordable answer at a fraction of the cost!

Vinten Launches New Vision Blue

by Derek Sine | September 8th, 2010

Vinten is launching its new Vision blue at IBC 2010. A pan and tilt head and tripod system designed to provide the experienced camera operator with professional support to match the extremely high-performance of today’s popular small lightweight camcorders and DSLRs equipped for video.

Vision blue addresses the need for a broadcast quality tripod system capable of balancing the smaller, lightly accessorised cameras, managing payloads between 4.6 – 11lbs with a low center of gravity.

The Vision blue is sold as a pan and tilt head, or as complete system with a two-stage aluminum tripod and a choice of floor or mid-level spreader. It also includes a high contrast blue LED illuminated leveling bubble for quick and accurate set-up in all lighting situations.

Canon Releases New EOS 60D

by Derek Sine | August 26th, 2010

Canon has released the 18 Megapixel EOS 60D DSLR Camera. For the first time on an EOS camera, the EOS 60D DSLR boasts a three-inch Vari-Angle Clear View LCD screen, EOS Full HD video recording with manual overrides including audio level control, and in-camera functionality for RAW image processing plus Creative Filters to manipulate images after taking them.

Designed primarily for advanced amateurs, the EOS 60D replaces the EOS 50D and boasts a broad array of new features that make it easier for photographers to add personal creativity to their images. Whether it’s capturing an overhead shot on the Vari-Angle screen at a graduation ceremony, or converting a color image to black and white for a nostalgic look, Canon is delivering in-camera features and functions that empower advanced photographers to capture, display and print the images they want.

The new 60D camera features a large Vari-Angle 3-inch Clear View LCD screen with 1,040,000 dot/VGA resolution plus anti-reflective and smudge-resistant coatings for bright clear viewing from any angle. The new LCD screen is ideal for composing low-angle or overhead shots whether capturing still images or Full HD video clips.

Another first for the EOS system is the EOS 60D camera’s new Multi-Control Dial, which places a Multi-Controller and Set button inside the Quick Control Dial. This new control layout streamlines camera navigation for vertical as well as horizontal shooting and enables a cleaner camera design. Responding to customer requests, the EOS 60D also features a locking mode dial, which makes camera operation more secure by preventing inadvertent changes to the photographer’s selected shooting mode.

In addition to its new still capture capabilities, the EOS 60D features Full HD video capture at 1920 x 1080 resolution with selectable frame rates of 24p, 25p or 30p. Native 24p recording helps videographers achieve a more cinema-style look for their footage without the need for post-processing. The EOS 60D builds upon the great video capabilities Canon has introduced in recent DSLR cameras and packs them into a camera photo enthusiasts will love. Full HD video capture, along with selectable cinematic frame rates for both NTSC (National Television System Committee) and PAL (Phase Altering Line) standards, will help the EOS 60D to be the camera of choice among film students and photography students alike.

The new EOS 60D camera’s movie mode also includes manual controls for exposure as well as manual audio levels in 64 steps, much like the latest firmware update for the EOS 5D Mark II HDSLR. Users can set audio levels on the rear menu screen before shooting begins; once recording is initialized, audio adjustments are not possible. In addition, Canon has added an electronic Wind Filter to the audio controls within the movie shooting menu.

Canon has also included an in-camera movie editing feature, allowing users to shorten a video file by clipping segments from the beginning or the end, removing unwanted portions without outside software. This feature can dramatically accelerate workflow by reducing the time needed to upload video clips to a computer for further editing and assembly. The EOS 60D also includes Canon’s Movie Crop mode, which allows users to achieve 7x magnification when shooting SD video. Unlike the digital zoom feature found in many compact digital cameras, Canon’s Movie Crop mode crops the image directly from the CMOS sensor at full SD resolution to preserve image quality and still provide additional telephoto power.

The Canon EOS 60D allows for three video recording modes – Full HD and HD in a 16:9 aspect ratio and Standard Definition (SD) in a 4:3 aspect ratio, all at selectable frame rates. The EOS 60D Digital SLR camera will record Full HD at 1920 x 1080 pixels in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); 720p HD recording at 50p or 60p (59.94) and SD video at frame rates of 50p or 60p (59.94). The EOS 60D features a dedicated button to initiate live view for both video and still shooting. Once engaged, the same dedicated button will start and stop video recording.

The Canon EOS 60D DSLR camera is scheduled to be delivered to U.S. dealers toward the end of September, and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $1,099.00. It will also be offered in a kit version with Canon’s EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS zoom lens at an estimated retail price of $1,399.00.

Canon EOS 60D Sample Video

Product Walk Through

NEX-VG10 First Thoughts

by Derek Sine | August 24th, 2010

Sony shipped the new NEX-VG10 to the Videomaker headquarters for an exclusive 48 hour hands on review. At first glance it looks more like a camera you would find in the hands of a pro rather than a consumer but at a closer look the NEX-VG10 is extremely simple with very few buttons and options.

When I picked up the NEX-VG10 the weight of the camera was quite noticeable right off the bat, the NEX-VG10 weighs in at 3 lbs fully loaded with the weight shifted more towards the front of the camera where you can find the E-mount 18-200mm lens that ships with the camera. It also was a little odd holding a consumer camera without a zoom control which ultimately separates this camcorder from your typical Handycam geared towards home movies.

Most of the functions are done within the menu which is quite easy to navigate and the graphical user interface(GUI) resembles the top dial commonly found on most DSLRs. The NEX-VG10 records onto SD/SDHC/SDXC or Sony’s Memory Stick Pro Duo cards which is quite convenient.

The images we captured with this camera are remarkable, although it shoots in 60i it does a have a cinema styled look to the footage it captures, it would have been nice to see 24p on this model. The audio the NEX-VG10 captures is also exceptional with it’s quad capsule stereo microphone. The bottom line the NEX-VG10 has lots of  features found in HDSLRs but  in a camcorder form factor that is more ergonomic. We will have a full review up soon!

Sony Releases Two New Translucent Mirrored DSLRs

by Derek Sine | August 24th, 2010

Sony has introduced two new cameras, the SLT-A55V and SLT-A33 both adopt Sony’s newly-developed Translucent Mirror Technology, which achieves the highest-level of auto focus speed for both still image and movie shooting.

Translucent Mirror Technology provides performance previously unattainable with traditional DSLR technology. Using the new technology, the 55 and 33 models can continuously and quickly focus while shooting stills and recording video—even in full HD. They can shoot continuously at up to 10 frames per second on the 55 and up to seven on the 33, achieving shooting speeds that are the fastest in the industry for an APS-C size sensor-equipped interchangeable lens cameras under $1000.

The Translucent Mirror Technology also allows the 55 and 33 to be the first cameras to ever maintain continuous phase detection AF while recording Full HD AVCHD video. With fast, precise phase detection AF continually tracking subject movement, even fast action and subjects that move quickly towards or away from the camera are easy to keep in focus.

With a large, 16.2 megapixel for the 55 and 14.2 megapixel for the 33, Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor, background defocusing effects can be easily captured. The APS-C sensor size is nearly 20 times larger than a traditional compact camcorders’ 1/2.88 type image sensor, providing more creative control.

Compatible with all A-mount lenses, video and photography enthusiasts alike can choose from macro to telephoto lenses to achieve their desired artistic effect.

The 55 and 33 cameras will cost about $750 and $650 for the body only and about $850 and $750 for the body and 18-55mm zoom lens. The 33 camera will be available in September and the 55 model will be available in October.

NIKON Announces D3100

by Derek Sine | August 20th, 2010

Nikon recently announced the availability of the new D3100. The 14.2-megapixel D3100 is the world’s first HDSLR to introduce full time auto focus (AF) in Live View and D-Movie mode to effortlessly achieve the critical focus needed when shooting Full HD 1080p video. With the Nikon D3100 Users can record cinematic 24p video clips, or shoot at 24 or 30 frames-per-second at 720p, ideal for sharing online. By incorporating interchangeable NIKKOR lenses, users are able to create a variety of photography effects to video such as isolating subjects with a shallow depth of field, and recording in low light conditions.

The D3100 is the first HDSLR to implement full time AF for D-Movie video shooting and while in Live View mode. Using contrast based AF, the D3100 automatically focuses on subjects when Live View is activated to aid shooting when using the LCD. The D3100 camera also uses Face Detection technology to lock focus on up to 35 human faces, a feat not even accomplished with consumer camcorders. To further simplify movie shooting, Live View is activated at a single flick of a dedicated switch, and HD video recording is achieved by a simple press of a button.

Sharing and editing video clips is also easier, as the D3100 records movies in the versatile H.264 AVCHD codec (.mov file). While playing movies back in the camera, users are able to edit recorded videos by clipping footage from the beginning or end of a movie. High Definition movies and stills can be shared with family and friends on an HD television via HDMI output. Additionally, the D3100 is compatible with the new SDXC memory card format to store large amounts of photo and video data so users can shoot multiple scenes without interruption.

The D3100 D-SLR camera outfit, including the kit AF-S NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens, is scheduled to be available at Nikon Authorized dealers beginning in mid September 2010, at an estimated selling price of $700

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