What:Double Vision – A unique exhibition where illustrators and photographers are paired up by a draw, to create portraits of each other. Where:Toronto Image Works | 80 Spadina Ave., Toronto When: Monday April 23 – 30, 2012 | Opening Night: April 26, 2012 – 7pm (members and invited guests.)
Big news from JVC, at NAB 2012, as they announce two heavy-hitters in the world of mobile news and handheld cameras.
The GY-HM650 is a ProHD handheld mobile news camera, which can shoot and deliver news footage faster than ever. Equipped with dual codecs, it produces full HD files on one memory card while simultaneously creating smaller, Web-friendly files (1/4 HD) on a second card. With built-in FTP and Wi-Fi connectivity, the GY-HM650 delivers the footage back to a station without a microwave or satellite connection.
Key Features:
1/3-inch 12-bit CMOS sensors (1920 x 1080 x 3)
F11 Sensitivity
23x Fujinon Auto focus zoom lens with manual functions
F1.6-3.0, 23x, f=4.1-94.3mm (35mm conversion:29 to 667mm)
Optical image stabilizer
3 position ND filter (1/4, 1/16, 1/64)
0.45-inch 1.22M pixel color viewfinder
3.5-inch 920K pixel LCD display with focus assist
SDXC/SDHC memory card recording(2 slots for dual-backup, continuous recording)
Dual Codec: Recording simultaneously HD + SD or HD + ¼HD (for Web delivery)
The GY-HM600 is a next-generation handheld ProHD camera that delivers exceptional imagery and features for news, sports, and independent production. It features a built-in wide angle 23x autofocus zoom lens, delivers superior low-light performance, and provides excellent sensitivity (F11 at 2000 lux) in a comfortable, versatile form factor.
Meryl McMaster, Vistek’s 2009 Gold Medal Winner from OCAD, will be showcased – along with artists Keesic Douglas, Thea Haines, Robert Hengeveld and Mark Kasumovic will be showcased in a group exhibit at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre, titled 1812-2012: A Contemporary Perspective.
Produced in partnership with City of Toronto, Museum Services, as part of a citywide programme for the Bicentennial Commemoration of The War of 1812, the exhibition is curated by Patrick Macaulay and runs from April 20, 2012 through July 15, 2012.
Blackmagic Design made their NAB announcments today, with huge excitement surrounding the Teranex 2D and Teranex 3D Processors as well as the new Blackmagic Cinema Camera.
Teranex 2D and Teranex 3D Processors
This new family of high end broadcast standards converter processors featuring high- performance Thunderbolt I/O technology capture and playback features.
Key Features:
Both models include SIMD processing for extremely high quality broadcast up conversion, down conversion, SD/HD cross conversion, SD/HD standards conversion, cadence detect and remove, noise reduction, adjustable scaling, aspect ratio conversion and smart aspect settings.
Both models include full conversion of timecode and subtitles, even between SD and HD conversions. Both models include 16 channels of frame accurate audio conversions.
Teranex 3D Processor model includes advanced 3D tools including 3D camera align, 3D dual stream standards conversion, 3D format conversions and extremely realistic 3D simulation.
Includes 3 Gb/s SDI, HDMI 3D frame packing and analog video in and out, plus 8 ch AES/EBU and 4 ch balanced analog audio in and out. Thunderbolt port for computer capture and playback. RS422 deck control.
Reference input for built in frame sync feature.
Built in power supply. Dual redundant built in power supply on Teranex 3D Processor model. 4:2:2 quality in SD, HD and 2K video formats.
4:4:4 quality on Teranex 3D Processor model. Teranex 3D Processor model supports dual stream capture and playback via Thunderbolt. Supports Final Cut Pro X, Adobe Premiere Pro CS6, Avid Media Composer 6, Adobe After Effects
CS6, Adobe Photoshop CS6 and more. Includes Blackmagic Design Media Express capture/playback software and UltraScope waveform monitoring software.
Teranex 2D Processor available: June 2012; MSRP: $1,995 Teranex 3D Processor available: July 2012; MSRP: $3,995
Blackmagic Cinema Camera
A revolutionary digital cinema camera design that includes powerful features such as super wide 13 stops of dynamic range, high resolution 2.5K sensor, built in high bandwidth SSD recorder, open file format support, color correction with full version of DaVinci Resolve and a built in LCD with metadata entry.
High resolution 2.5K sensor allows improved anti aliasing and reframing shots.
Super wide 13 stops of dynamic range allows capture of increased details for feature film look.
Built in SSD allows high bandwidth recording of RAW video and long duration compressed video.
Open file formats compatible with popular NLE software such as CinemaDNG 12 bit RAW, Apple ProRes and Avid DNxHD. No custom file formats.
Includes no custom connections. Standard jack mic/line audio in, BNC 3 Gb/s SDI out, headphone, high-speed Thunderbolt I/O technology, LANC remote control and standard DC 12-30V power connection.
Capacitive touch screen LCD for camera settings and slate metadata entry.
Compatible with extremely high quality Canon EF and Zeiss ZF lenses.
Supports 2.5K and 1080HD resolution capture in 24, 25, 29.97 and 30 fps.
Thunderbolt connection allows direct camera capture via included Media Express software and supports live waveform monitoring via the included Blackmagic UltraScope software.
Includes a full copy of DaVinci Resolve 9.0 color grading software.
HyperDeck Studio Pro with 4K playback
A new model of SSD recorder that includes powerful new features such as 4 channels of 3 Gb/s SDI in and out, built-in high-speed Thunderbolt I/O technology, as well as full HDMI and analog in and out including standard XLR connectors for audio and timecode. HyperDeck Studio Pro features dramatically higher processing power and quality which allows full 4K playback from a single SSD disk using Apple ProRes compression that is four times the resolution of regular HD 1080 resolution video.
Key Features:
Capture and playback with SSDs in uncompressed 10-bit, DNxHD and ProRes quality.
Supports QuickTime format for uncompressed, DNxHD and ProRes files and MXF files for DNxHD.
Dual slots so keeps recording onto next disk when one disk fills up.
4 channels of 3 Gb/s SDI input and outputs. Allows 4K playback at 4 times HD resolution.
HDMI input and outputs.
Analog component, and composite inputs and outputs.
Analog audio on XLR connections, and includes additional HiFi RCA audio inputs.
Includes timecode input and output connections on standard XLR connectors.
Built-in high-speed Thunderbolt I/O technology for computer capture and playback supported.
USB connection for software updates and settings.
RS-422 deck control for disk recorder control.
Ethernet for transport control and setting changes.
1 rack unit size with 110/240V built in power supply.
Recorded files and high-speed Thunderbolt I/O connection are fully compatible with Final Cut Pro X, Premiere Pro, After Effects, DaVinci Resolve and more. Includes UltraScope software for real time scopes using Thunderbolt port.
Other announcements from Blackmagic Design included:
DaVinci Resolve 9
A major new software update with a completely overhauled user interface for an extremely elegant and modern look, while optimizing the workflow for speed. DaVinci Resolve 9 will be available in July as a free-of-charge update for all Blackmagic Design DaVinci Resolve customers. >> Read the full press release
ATEM 2 M/E Production Switcher Audio Mixer Software
A major new software update that adds full audio mixing capability to its ATEM 2 M/E Production Switcher. Audio mixer software lets customers mix embedded audio from SDI and HDMI inputs, plus audio from media players and the ATEM 2 M/E Production Switchers external audio input. This new software update will be available in April and will be provided free of charge to existing ATEM 2 M/E customers. >> Read the full press release
Desktop Video 9.5
This update that adds support for the upcoming release of Adobe® Premiere® Pro CS6 video software using Blackmagic Design’s DeckLink, UltraStudio and Intensity capture and playback products on both Mac OS X and Windows 7. Desktop Video 9.5 for Windows 7 also includes a new WDM driver that lets customers use Blackmagic Design products with an enormous range of Windows video software. Available now as a free download >> Read the full press release
Universal Videohub Editing Interface with Thunderbolt I/O Technology
A Thunderbolt™-enabled capture and playback interface for its Universal Videohub 3 Gb/s SDI and optical fiber routers. Universal Videohub Editing Interface plugs into all Universal Videohub models and features 4 high-performance Thunderbolt ports and four reference signal inputs. Available Q3 2012. MSRP: $1,195 >> Read the full press release
3 Gb/s SDI Super Tough Battery Converters
Two new Battery Converters that feature a built-in rechargeable battery and a super tough aluminum design. Battery Converters include the latest 3 Gb/s SDI technology for the highest broadcast quality conversion and are available in two models, Battery Converter SDI to HDMI and Battery Converter HDMI to SDI. Available now; MSRP: $295 >> Read the full press release
UltraStudio Express with Thunderbolt Technology
A new capture and playback solution featuring 3 Gb/s SDI, HDMI and analog connections with high-speed Thunderbolt technology. UltraStudio Express is extremely portable, as the compact design is powered by its Thunderbolt connection and can be operated from a computer’s battery or power source. UltraStudio Express supports all common SD/HD formats for incredible quality video up to 1080p60, connects to virtually all consumer and professional equipment Available: early Q2 2012; MSRP: $495
>> Read the full press release
ProRes 422 (HQ) Recording and Playback added to HyperDeck Studio
HyperDeck Software Update 3.0, a new update to its revolutionary solid state disk (SSD) recorder which adds support for Apple ProRes 422 (HQ). The implementation of ProRes 422 (HQ) into HyperDeck Studio significantly reduces the size of uncompressed HD video files while preserving full- frame 10-bit 4:2:2 quality, allowing customers to record up to six times longer. Available now as a free download >> Read the full press release
Aja Video Systems announced, today at NAB, a slew of exciting new products including the T-TAP, Ki Pro Rack, Ki Pro Quad, and the UDC UP/Down/Cross Mini Converter, as well as support for the upcoming Adobe CC6 release.
Ki Pro Quad – a new solid-state portable video recorder capable of capturing high-quality edit-ready files in formats including 4K (4096 x 2160), Quad HD (3840 x 2160), 2K (2048 x 1080), and HD (1920 x 1080), for the fastest path from camera-to-editorial with 10-bit 4:4:4 and 10-bit 4:2:2 color support.
T-TAP™: a very small new bus-powered device that takes advantage of Thunderbolt™ connectivity for high-quality 10-bit SD, HD and 2K output through SDI and HDMI connections. This new adapter enables a simple, unobtrusive means of getting professional video and audio out of any Thunderbolt™-enabled Mac system.
Key Features:
High-speed ThunderboltTM connectivity
10-bit uncompressed 4:2:2 video and audio output
HD/SD SDI and HDMI connectivity supports simultaneous output at incredible 10-bit quality
3D support on HDMI for real-time stereoscopic review without requiring additional hardware
Full 8-channel embedded audio allows for multi-channel playback
Bus-powered via ThunderboltTM connector so no additional power supply required
AJA Mac driver and proven software compatibility
Backed by AJA’s quality, reliability and 3-year international warranty
In addition, Aja announced its planned support for the upcoming release of Adobe Creative Suite 6 software with AJA’s Io Express, Io XT and KONA family of products for both Mac and Windows customers. The new drivers supporting Adobe Creative Suite 6 will be available as a free download from AJA shortly after the new Adobe Creative Suite 6 products are released. AJA’s new drivers will deliver added support for Adobe Creative Suite 6 applications and streamline performance of AJA’s video I/O solutions with Adobe’s new plug-in architecture dubbed Adobe Mercury Transmit. All of the new AJA drivers will support video out in Adobe Premiere Pro CS6 through the new Transmit plug-in.
Bebb Studios is helmed by two (Stephen and Jennifer Bebb) well-known wedding photographers based out of Vancouver, B.C. Not only are they coming to town this weekend for 2 days of seminars and workshops, they also have a great blog with lots of fun stuff to read, great images to look at and pro-tips for photographers. If you like their blog and want to see more – come out to this Sunday’s Seminar we have a great deal for our online community – get the deets here!
If you’re headed to NAB this year, you’re going to want to check out these two new exciting releases from Canon. The EOS-1D C and C500 4K Cinema cameras, along with two new lenses were recently announced – in advance of the annual Las Vegas trade show and convention.
The EOS-1D C has the same chassis and still-shooting features as the EOS-1D X and captures 4096 x 2160 8-bit 4:2:2 video to a CF card at 24 fps. Targeting the motion picture, television and high-resolution production industries, the EOS-1D C features an 18-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor with a sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600.
4K video is captured by an approximately APS-H-sized portion of the full image sensor, while Full HD video can be captured in the user’s choice of two different imaging formats: the standard Full HD setting, which captures the full 36mm width of the CMOS sensor to achieve the largest possible angle of view for any compatible lens or an optional Super 35 crop setting which enables cinematographers to match the industry-standard imaging format and angle of view achieved by traditional motion picture cameras. This enables video footage from the EOS-1D C camera to more closely match the look of footage from other cameras in multi-camera shooting environments.
The Canon EOS C500 will offer raw 4K output and will be available with Canon’s EF mount and the industry-standard PL mount. The camera will not only support 4K-resolution video but also outputs this as a 10-bit uncompressed RAW data stream with no de-Bayering. The cameras offer the additional versatility of being able to output quad full-HD (3840 x 2160), 2K (2048 x 1080), full HD (1920 x 1080), and other imaging options.
If you happen to be in Las Vegas April 14 through 19, drop by Canon Booth #C4325 where they’ll have on display a prototype of the C500 at NAB 2012.
The Cinema EOS C500 simultaneously records in-camera a 50 Mbps HD proxy video to a CF card that is immediately available to support offline editing. Equipped with a newly developed Super 35mm-equivalent approximately 8.85-megapixel CMOS sensor, the cameras will be compatible with Canon’s wide range of interchangeable EF Cinema and PL-mount lenses and EF lenses for Canon SLR cameras.
Yes, we normally post our Focal Point every Friday. But, since tomorrow is a holiday, there won’t be anyone around our hallowed halls to share our findings… and we didn’t want anyone missing out on this week’s picks!
Well known for his revealing portraits, Christopher Wahl is one of Canada’s most renowned photographers. His portfolio includes the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Mick Jagger, Peter Beard, David Lynch and Jane Jacobs. Check out his blog, The Wahl Post, for some insight into his famous photos. AND – check out The G8 Summit Family Portrait 2010, a moving picture by Christopher Wahl taken at the 2010 G8 summit.
Los Angeles-based photographer, Ian Ruhter, creates amazing photographs using a van that he turned into a gigantic camera. His van-to-camera conversion process was a two year labour of love. Ian uses the collodion wet plate process, first introduced in the 1850s, to produce the 36 x 24″ images. Each image is one-of-a-kind and costs $500 to produce. This video shows just how and why he does it.
Sony has announced the smallest and lightest camera in the XDCAM family – the new PMW-100 XDCAM HD422 handheld camcorder.
Designed to address the need among journalists and videographers for a portable device, the PMW-100 has a newly developed 1/2.9-inch Exmor CMOS sensor. and it shoots 1080i, 1080p and 720p up to 50 Mbps. Recording and playback is based on MPEG HD422 codec with MPEG HD 422 Long GOP compression. It can also be switched to MPEG HD420 35/25Mbps or DVCAM 25Mbps and users can record to SxS memory card as well as memory stick, SD card and XQD.
Available May 2012; MSRP: TBA
Sony’s Official Press Release:
New PMW-100 XDCAM HD422 Handheld Camcorder Delivers on Performance and Mobility
Tokyo, Japan, 3rd April, 2012: Sony introduces the full-featured yet light and compact PMW-100 handheld camcorder. The PMW-100 joins the ever popular XDCAM HD422 line-up – making it the smallest and lightest camcorder in the XDCAM family.
Advancement in digital imaging technology has enabled professional journalists and videographers to cover stories by using portable devices such as mobile phones, DSLRs and consumer camcorders. However, when compared to main-stream shoulder mount camcorders, there is still a significant gap in image quality, ease of editing and data management. The PMW-100 achieves the best of both worlds, by recording full broadcast quality MPEG HD422 video within a hand-held form factor.
Equipped with a newly developed 1/2.9-inch “Exmor” CMOS sensor, it delivers excellent picture performance and also achieves the minimum illumination of 0.08lx. Featuring a 5.4-54mm (40-400mm in 35mm equivalent) zoom lens, the versatile PMW-100 allow users to work in virtually any production environment where mobility and flexibility is highly valued.
“The PMW-100 combines exceptional picture quality with portability and outstanding manoeuvrability based on the proven XDCAM workflow, taking professional users to a whole new level of productivity. The development of the PMW-100 is a natural step in the progression of the XDCAM range and is a direct response to our customers requirements. Long-time XDCAM users requested a light and compact camcorder that will not only work seamlessly on its own, but also alongside other XDCAM cameras such as the acclaimed PMW-500,” said Bill Drummond, Strategic Marketing Manager, Sony Europe.
The PMW-100 supports full-HD video at 1080i, 1080p and 720p up to 50 Mbps MXF recording and playback based on the MPEG HD422 codec using the standard MPEG HD422 Long GOP compression technology. It is also switchable to MPEG HD420 35/25Mbps or DVCAM 25Mbps. The PMW-100 can also record high quality 24-bit four-channel audio at an uncompressed 48kHz.
It offers utmost flexibility of using a variety of recording media including the high speed SxS memory card as well as Memory Stick, SD card and XQD as the emergency secondly media. The new “SxS Memory Card Management Utility”* software will provide additional operational convenience with SxS memory card, such as the data back-up function and the lifetime indication of the card in use.
Focusing on your subject and reviewing recorded footage is a breeze with the full colour 3.5-inch WVGA (852×480) LCD. The Slow & Quick Motion function enables users to create artistic fast and slow-motion footage from 1fps to 60fps in 720p mode and from 1fps to 30fps in 1080p mode.
The camera also incorporates HD/SD-SDI output, Composite output, Genlock input, time code input/output, i.LINK (HDV/DV) input/output, and A/V output.
Congratulations to Age Van Leewin, who’s the proud new owner of a GoPro HD Surf Hero Wide Angle Kit. How did he win such a fantastic prize, you ask? Simple – he signed up for Vistek’s eNews at the recent Outdoor Adventure Show in Calgary and his name was drawn from a hat.
It’s just that easy!
Why miss out on news and future chances to win? Sign up for Vistek’s eNews today!
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