Sponsored by The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Hi-Def Revolution was moderated by Conrad Denke, Publisher of HighDef Magazine and Produced by Brian Zink and Alex Georgiev. The event panelists were: Felix Enriquez Alcala, Barry Braverman, Tom Curran, Philip Hodgetts and Robert Primes.
I’ve always found the progression of technology and it’s effect on our society fascinating. I’m typically an early adopter of innovative products and went to this event to learn more about the current HD camera technology that is available to make production more affordable for independent producers, directors and for the everyday individual.
Participating companies/ cameras that were reviewed were Canon’s 5D Mark II DSLR, JVC’s GY-HM-700, Panasonic’s HPX 300, and Sony’s PMW-EX3 XDCAM EX.
Philip Hodgetts explained the codecs, workflows and editing platform changes, which have led to the transition between HDV and the most current HD technology. Apple computers have several applications available that can make transferring and encoding video faster and easier for users.
Tom Curran discussed how “the footprint of the camera is important” and how low profile cameras work well for a documentary setting. Curran also talked about how self-financing projects can make a difference in the type of cameras and lenses that are used. Some of the new HD cameras are more economical since the media used to capture recordings such as CF cards are inexpensive and small, making them easily portable for location shooting.
Director Felix Enriquez Alcala revealed that he thinks “the magic is in the mistakes” and believes in pushing the boundaries of equipment. Alcala used Canon’s 5D Mark II DSLR, choosing to explore the HD capabilities of a digital camera to shoot webisodes for “The Ghost Whisperer”. Since this camera is under $2800, it’s impressive to know that Acala found a way to modify the sound capabilities and make this equipment exceed typical DLSR expectations. Robert Primes suggested that when shopping for a HD camera, seeing how the camera performs in bright light as well as low light can help test the boundaries.
According to Barry Braverman, one of the advantages of using HD, is that it can allow the editor/director to push an actor’s performance by better capturing performer’s reactions, enhancing the overall project. He also said “it’s all in the craft…the technical only matters when it effects the storytelling”, which really captured the overall tone of this panel discussion.
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