The advent of multiple file-based recording formats and camera systems necessitates a new generation of efficient data management tools like the Nexto DI, which can accommodate, off-load, and store a range of data protocols and media types. From Alexa and SxS to XDCAM EX and P2 today’s shooter/filmmaker working project to project and (often) from producer to producer may frequently use a variety of cameras from just as many manufacturers.... »
The biggest news for editors when Avid began shipping Media Composer 6 last November was the NLE's transformation into a very modern, 64-bit application. Along with that came other great updates, including the support of third-party hardware options (several of which I tested with this review). This is a big release in terms of the software's overall internal plumbing, though it may or may not be a big release for users in terms of overall functions, depending on what features they need. I still think it may be one of the most important releases of Media Composer ever, as 64-bit lays the foundation for every upgrade to come.... »
While the VariCam and the Alexa come closest to assuming the vaulted mantle of versatility and reliability film cameras once brought to productions, the full-size camera is often too much for the job — too awkward to manage and too conspicuous, given the need for speed and for shooting surreptitiously in public or sensitive locations. What itinerant shooters really need is a professional compact multiple frame-rate camcorder with a far-reaching zoom that all but eliminates the multiple cases, weight, and hassle of carting additional lenses.... »
The sleight of hand we, as video editors, have to accomplish on a daily basis gets a little maddening at times. It's considered an easy day when all you have to do is blur out a copyrighted logo on someone's shirt who is moving in place slightly. No biggie. Then a couple of days before the deadline, the client calls and says legal can't clear a billboard and it needs to be removed. You know, that one behind his head... and a clump of trees... while the camera pans around them. That's when a good planar tracker comes in.... »
The HDC-Z10000 is a compact, feature-laden 3D camera at an economical price that gives shooters optimal capability in a “normal” working range of six-to-eight feet. It should find ready acceptance among those working mostly interior scenes and interviews from 17 inches (.45m) out to 15 feet (3.5m).... »
Amid the hype and hoopla leading up to the camera’s introduction at Paramount Studios on November 3, one fact seemed inescapable: the Canon EOS C300 camera will usher in a new era of simple, versatile, high-performance tools for filmmakers.... »
When I took my first look at the feature details inside GenArts' new Sapphire Edge plug-in package, I admit my first reaction was to roll my eyes. Do we really need another set of canned looks/film damage filters? Throw a rock at a FCP plug-in maker and you’re also bound to hit one that does film damage or lens flare. But as I started working with the quality effects in Edge I slowly changed my tune.... »
Panasonic's new flagship 3D camcorder, the AG-3DP1, will not be released for another few months but that hasn't stopped a flood of speculation, since its unveiling at NAB, about the camera’s capabilities. Barry Braverman sorts through what they will mean for the stereo filmmaker.... »
For the past five years, Autodesk has been busy developing Mudbox alongside its other well-known suites of animation and modeling software. As a result, Mudbox 2012 ships with an even better 3D paint system, better posing, new sculpting options, interface improvements, and critical performance updates.... »
You may still need a dedicated encoder for high-end applications like premastering DVD and Blu-ray, but short of that, Squeeze 7 is a one-stop shop for whatever you have up your digital distribution sleeve.... »
