JL Major's Lounge Discussions

Thanks, I will look into it!

I've seen a lot of great things about the BMC but it was in such limited supply because of their sensor problem that only a few got their hands on it. Hope their new models will be released more smoothly. As for the Digital Bolex, it's still in development: they only got a few stills out of it and a lot needs to be done before they can release it.

The digital Boulez does has a way to go, but I feel that when it comes out it will be a game changer along side the BMC small format camera. As for the canon c300, I have very little knowledge of this camera. I need to do more research on it.

While I've never chosen the Blackmagic Cinema Camera for a project, I did some initial testing of it. I thought it had some interesting features but also there was a lot missing that I was not willing to give-up on set. The camera itself gave an impression of being well made, although time and day in day out usage would certainly answer that question. Immediate issues were no frame lines in the camera monitor and no timecode. Both of these are critical when shooting. This immediately set off warning bells for me since these features are so basic that in all honesty I ruled the camera out of consideration on these points alone. As we started to look at some initial footage it also became apparent that it was both softer and noisier than I would accept for the production. Blackmagic has a couple of new cameras that are supposed to be available sometime this month, although considering the delivery problems they had with the Blackmagic Cinema Camera delivery, the reality may be different. The cameras are a "4K" and an HD camera. These may be worth the wait and considering for your project if the timing works out. The BlackMagic Production 4K Camera retails at $4,000 http://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/blackmagicproductioncamera4k/ and the BlackMagic Pocket Cinema Camera, which shoots HD, is $1,000. http://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/blackmagicpocketcinemacamera Both cameras come with DaVinci Resolve although the Pocket Cinema camera gets the "Lite" version, which must be less filling. This is very good software. Since these cameras are not yet available i've not tested them so cannot comment. Depending upon what you are shooting, what you can afford and what your expectations are, there are many cameras, old and new, that might be perfect. This decision should be made by your DP not anyone else. Just a suggestion here, but unless you personally are shooting the project, do not get the camera and then look for a DP. Personally I usually ignore any production that is looking for people but says they decided upon the camera already. As a DP, projects I shoot are with the camera or cameras that I choose to be the best for the picture not whatever camera the producer or for that matter I own. Best for the production is the best way to make the bestest decision.

DL It sounds like you have everything under control. Perhaps you will get a chance to test the new cameras if they have been released in time for your shoot. If I can help you with anything let me know, limited of course to words from far away.