The winds of change are once again blowing; this time, we will be taking a look at the future of DOF adapters and some options.
HSR supports the Letus line of products, though there are several others such as RedRockMicro, Brevis Cinevate, MovieTube, P&S plus several indie-built and kits available.
The question remains if these adapters will be necessary for the future of Digital Electronic Cinematography. If you’re anticipating the move to a DSLR, you will inherently have all the bokeh and DOF necessary. SLR prime and zoom-type lenses give you the out-of-focus-pull-to-and-beyond ability in its very nature. No DOF adapter needed here.
I’ve actually put together a Letus Elite with a Canon 5D2 using Nikon lenses, then tried the Nikon lens directly on the 5D2 – sadly the DOF adapter didn’t produce superior results, but I was hoping.
What about the transition over to 3D cameras and camcorders? I can’t see a DOF adapter working with that product do to overwhelming optical and technical complexities. When everyone starts to ship 3D adapters and camcorders we’ll know better, but right now (based on available literature) a DOF – 3D relationship won’t happen.
What of all the DOF adapter manufacturer’s?
It is thought that the DOF manufacturing end of their companies will re-tool and move into other types of products, such as rod support shoes for full-sized ENG camcorder’s, etc.
You’ll always need rod supports and riser’s, grips and shoulder pad systems of some type, and whatever else you can apply to DSLR’s, and when shipped, whatever products that can make 3D rigs easier to use and more convenient.
Not in the Grave Yet
There are a million camcorders still out there, and even though the sales and trends are shrinking that end of the market, and this will most certainly effect the DOF adapter builders. There is little question that the adapters do, in fact, work very well with more traditional single fixed-lens camcorders.
With the introduction of relay lenses, camcorders with detachable lenses in 1/3in., 1/2in. and 2/3in. B4 mounts can now get in the game (actually, they always could have, it’s OK to use the supplied detachable lens without the absolute necessity of using a dedicated relay-type lens, though the relays are a cool item albeit a $2000.00 to $5000.00 price tag).
Not everyone is comfortable with DSLR’s as their HD Motion video capture device. Yes, they’re usually 1920×1080 and output 1080p, as good as the best camcorders and in some cases better. Those that have shot the DSLR products (and I’ve seen the end-product and largely agree) are overwhelmingly amazed at the results. They’re even a bit surprised that such a small package ca do such a fine job.
The images are quite good, full HD and using a ZOOM with Plural Eyes software solves the sound sync-ing and auto gain control problem creating a full 360-degree solution.
Out with 3CCD, a buzzword from the recent past, and in with Full Frame and APS-C single-chip image processors. I told everyone that single chip sensors must eventually win, that was back in 2003 when JVC introduced the JY-HD10U. Give it enough time and I predict all image capture devices will be 1-chip.
If you are getting the results you need using a DOF adapter and your favorite HD camcorder there is no reason to stop, the DSLR-acquired product isn’t specifically better, image wise. It always comes down to the camera operator and the post solutions.
Money, money, money
In as far as 2D is concerned, it is less expensive (read: cheaper) to shoot a DSLR. A Canon 5D2 with a good 24mm – 105mm lens runs about $3500. 32gB CF cards run a bit over a hundred.
A Canon EOS 7D runs about $1700.00 and a Rebel T2i 550D runs under $800.00 and quote the same 1920×1080 1080p and toss in 24p and 25p in addition to 30p.
A Panasonic AG-HVX200A runs about the same to buy as a 5D2, P2 cards have gone down in price and capacity is up, a 32gB E-series is under $600.00 (yes, you get a lot more RT on a CF card of the same capacity, but I have to draw some comparisons). But here’s the sting – you still haven’t got that DOF ability with a camcorder and will still need to purchase an adapter. A Letus Extreme will run about $1200 and lenses will still be necessary, just like in the DSLR scenario.
Which Way is Up?
HSR is a rental house, we need to keep all the bases covered and will continue to carry all the electronic and optical solutions whether DSLR, Camcorder/DOF or (eventually) 3D. One size rarely fits all.
Our goal is to allow you to pick the gear you want (and need) in an effort to help you produce the type and quality of content you deserve. Plus, we encourage trying different equipment rigs so you can get a feel for everything that’s available.
In that regard, our commitment is unwavering.
QUESTION OF THE DAY:
If it’s called a TRAILER, why does it appear at the BEGINNING of the movie?