Projects
Compact
HDV+AVCHD cameras
When affordability and quality results are crucial choose a compact
and portable model from the HDV or AVCHD family of cameras
S
ony’s compact models support a range of
formats, allowing users to select the best
combination of recording media and NLE
compatibility for their project. Where the
assurance and instant-archiving of tapes is needed,
HDV compact camcorders record onto mini-DV
tapes while providing hybrid functionality with the
option of recording to CompactFlash. It was the
ability to shoot 1080i images on a budget that made
Reeltime Productions use the HVR-Z1E for a
green screen shoot. Another of Sony’s compact
camcorders, the specialist HXR-MC1P point of
view camera, enables the capture of outstanding
HD video from positions that wouldn’t be possible
with other camcorders, and offers long recording
times onto MemoryStick cards by using AVCHD.
Cameraman Alister Chapman found the HXR-
MC1P cameras withstood challenging conditions A SWEET SHOOT
when capturing tornadoes in 3D. The workflow of the Z1E stood out on Reeltime
Productions’ green screen shoot for Nestlé Rowntree
HDV was the format of choice when
Reeltime Productions filmed characters against a Charles Amponsah. “The tried-and-tested Z1
green screen backdrop for the website launch of performed flawlessly all day and we only needed to
Randoms, a new product from Nestlé Rowntree. change battery once. If it was good enough for Clint
Reeltime Productions, which already had studio and Eastwood in Flags of our Fathers then it is good enough
green screen experience, chose Imagist Studios for the for us.” Amponsah found the HDV format worked well
one–day shoot due to its well-equipped green screen for the web video and the agency was happy with the
facilities. The HVR-Z1E was selected because image size. Tape was the format of choice for the project
greenroom@momentum, the agency involved in the and this meant that Reeltime Productions was able to
shoot, had used the camera before and was familiar with shoot for up to an hour before it was necessary to
the results and the workflow. change stock. “As always, there were no issues with
“We bought the Z1E from Creative Video, but not drop-out with the Sony tapes we used,” says Amponsah.
just specifically for this job. It allowed for 1080i images For post the main software used was Adobe After
on a budget, which was great. It’s also known for having Effects and Reeltime Productions also advised
a great on-board LCD for a camera at its price point. greenroom@momentum on the advantages of the
This was used by the operator whilst agency creatives straightforward keying provided by the Keylight plug-in
used an LCD HD monitor to see more precisely what for After Effects from visual effects and image
they were getting,” says Reeltime Productions md processing firm, The Foundry.
28 theproducer Summer 2009
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