Hybrid Camera Rigs from Redrock Makes DSLR Filmmaking Possible

The evolution of the camera continues as more advanced features become available.  Several years ago, the idea of recording photographs using digital files instead of film was inconceivable, now a new batch of digital single reflex cameras can now store moving images for a high-resolution filming experience.

Most DSLRs have movie modes of at least 720p resolution and Redrock Micro, a leading provider of cinema accessories for digital filmmakers, has found an opportunity in making the DSLR the new filmmaking tool with their new DSLR 2.0 line of hybrid cinema rigs.  Fitted to accommodate major DSLR brands like Canon EOS 5D Mark II, Canon EOS Rebel T1i, Nikon D90, and Panasonic Lumix HG1, these cinema rigs-ranging from rack, rails, and shoulder mounts-can help bring filmmaking to a whole new level.

The DSLR 2.0 accessories address the emerging new hybrid shooting style made possible by DSLR video cameras, combining the ultra portability and lightweight of DSLR shooting together with cinema-quality accessories, frames, and standards. Read the rest of this entry »

Genius has announced its G-Shot HD520, a pocket-sized HD digital video camera it hopes will break price barriers for the class. The six-ounce camera features a 2.4-inch screen, records 11-megapixel stills and records in 5-megapixel MPEG 4/H.264 video that produces a 720p picture. The HD520 has some features reserved for higher-end cameras, such as facial detection and image stabilization, and its LCD screen rotates through 270 degrees. The new camcorder has a built-in 32MB of memory, obviously requiring use of an additional SD card for any video capture; it supports up to 8GB SDHC cards for the bulk of its footage. The 520 uses a 7.1mm lens and offers a 5x digital zoom. It has an HDMI output for a direct connection to a HDTV. The HD520 is compatible with Mac OS X and Windows 2000/XP/Vista. It retails for $150

The JVC Everio GZ-X900 hybrid camera is just one of the many up and coming high definition camcorders to come around. But this one may be different. This new device is a hybrid solid state camcorder that offers users the ability to capture high definition videos as well as high resolution still images. Its light and compact design makes it quite an interesting enough gadget to take a look at.

The JVC Everio is quite an incredible package to have. It features giving its users the ability to record action shots in Full HD video. This camera is also equipped with a nine mega pixel camera for capturing high resolution and detailed still images. It is an all in one camera encased in a package small enough to fit into your pocket. Weighing only more than half a pound, this surely is one of the lightest cameras around, considering its capabilities of shooting HD video. Read the rest of this entry »

Sanyo on Thursday said it had started shipping its combination photo and video Dual Camera Xacti line. The series is headlined by the FH1 and HD2000, which can both shoot 1080p video in H.264 while capturing 8-megapixel photos, carry 10X lenses, and both slow motion video as well as burst photo modes that take advantage of large memory buffers. The CA9 and WH1 (pictured) capture movies in 720p but are waterproof and snap 9-megapixel still shots, while the CG10 and TH1 have the same video resolution but 8-megapixel stills and either an extra-small (CG10) or horizontal (TH1) form factor. All the devices support modern video editing tools like iMovie and sync over USB. Prices start at $200 for the CG10 and increase with the TH1 ($300), CA9 ($350), WH1 ($400), FH1 ($500) and HD2000 ($600).

Sony has debuted a new high-definition camcorder, the HDR-TG5V, that is designed for travelers requiring lightweight gear. The Handycam features a Carl Zeiss lens, with 10X optical zoom, and captures 1920 by 1080 pixel video and four-megapixel still images. A titanium body and compact form factor contribute to the low weight. An integrated GPS antenna and NAVTEQ maps can be used to automatically geo-tag videos or images to keep a record of the exact shooting location. The geo-tagged content carries a push-pin reference marker for each location. A map index is available from the 2.7-inch LCD touchscreen, or users can access the geographic data from the included Picture Motion Browser software. Six hours of HD footage can be stored on 16GB of embedded memory, while recording time can be extended with a Memory Stick PRO Duo.

The camcorder also features Smile Shutter technology that is designed to snap a still photo when the subject smiles, even while recording video. The system also employs facial recognition algorithms that are claimed to automatically adjust focus, exposure and color control.

The HDR-TG5V should ship in May for an estimated price of $1000. Sony will also offer a travel kit with an extra battery, travel charger and a pouch for around $100. Customers can also add a wide angle lens for $100.

Camera builder Olympus has announced the E-450, its newest entry-level DSLR. The camera is a replacement for the earlier E-420, and sports a 10-megapixel sensor, combined with a TruePic III+ image processor. Light sensitivity ranges only from ISO 100 to 1600, while shooting speed is limited to 3.5fps, supplemented by a buffer capable of holding just eight RAW images; the camera does however benefit from an improved Live View mode, with contrast and phase difference detection autofocus. The mode has also been given face detection and shadow compensation abilities. The camera further introduces three “art” filters, labelled Pop Art, Soft Focus and Pin Hole; all settings are previewed on a 2.7-inch LCD before shooting. Other notable features of the camera include a dust-removal motor, support for CF and xD cards, and wireless external flash sync with up to three different groups. The E-450 will ship beginning in May, in the form of three different kits. Aside from a body-only option, a basic kit will include a Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, while the Double Zoom kit will add a second, 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 lens. Prices are so far unpublished. Read the rest of this entry »