Charles Maring Visual Artist

5D Mark II Audio

2012-01-27T00:51:59Z

With all the corporate and indie film work we've been doing, we've had to find a solution to dual audio with the Canon 5D Mark II that would allow us to capture extreme high quality audio. I've tried several other brands of mixer / preamps attached to the camera, and they always fell somewhat short. Did they work... yes, but not to the level that I now understand and expect in our productions.

The ideal answer came through with the debut of Sound Devices MixPre-D. We've field tested this mixer in a many challenging situations at this point, and I thought it would be a great followup post to the microphone post below. I have NO relationship with Sound Devices or any other audio companies for that matter, so this is totally unbiased. Simply put, the Mix Pre-D is REMARKABLE. The quality of audio we are achieving now is simply amazing both into the camera and into an external recorder. In fact, 9x out of 10 we are simply choosing the in camera audio because it equals the feed into the backup recorder. The signal coming out of the Sound Devices unit runs hot, which is welcomed because we can turn the manual gain control in the 5D Mark II down dramatically, which helps keep noise at bay.

I've always known that the "Preamp" was important to having clean audio. But I've learned that there is more to great sounding audio than just how clean and hiss free it is. Preamps actually have the ability to enhance audio so that it resonates. Other pre-amps I've used simply left the audio sounding flat. The Sound Devices pre-amp somehow makes the audio feel richer, on top of being clean.

It is pricey running $750, and when you add the camera mount at $80 bucks and an audio cable, you are right at $1000.00. But, it's worth every penny in my experience. Buy it once, buy it for life. Once you pick up this unit you know right away by it's lightweight metal casing that it is built to last.

The MixPre-D offers two XLR inputs / outputs, which is fine for most productions we do because we generally work with a shotgun mic rather than wireless body packs. It also features a USB out for anyone who needs to do voice overs on projects running into an editing software, or for those musicians out there that could make use of this as well. Running on two AA batteries, it lasts quite a while. On a full day shoot I find we are changing batteries mid day. It also offers Phantom Power, and Mic or Line Level options as well.

If you are shooting films with the Canon 5D Mark II. This is a no brainer purchase that takes all the worry and work out of getting great audio to compliment the stunning footage these cameras are known for. And, even if you upgrade to new cinema cameras as they come out this year, this is still a solid purchase if you are serious about audio that resonates with viewers.

Review by Charles Maring MARING VISUALS

Microphones for Cinema

2011-11-14T17:34:59Z

As a musician, I've been exploring recording for a very long time, but now with our growth and passion towards Cinematography, I've had to learn a great deal about capturing audio from the filmmaking perspective as well. I am sure there are a lot of others out there in the same boat, so I thought I would share some insight on some hard decisions we've made.

One thing I've come to know is that you can't skimp on audio because viewers are much more critical of sound than they are of video. I've tried to keep budget in mind with audio purchases, but the truth is that if you want broadcast quality sound, you have to step up and spend big.

MICROPHONES...
For those of us that are photographers, a good way to think of microphones is to compare it to lenses. Just as each lens has a perspective and a specific use, so to does each style of microphone. You wouldn't show up to a wedding for instance with a single prime lens and expect to be able to do everything right? The same holds true when you are purchasing microphones. Since you never know what situation you will be in, you need to show up prepared.

In lens talk, "prepared" to me means every prime from 14mm - 200mm. In Microphone talk "prepared" means 1. A high quality Shotgun Mic... 2. A UHF bodypack transmitter with a high quality lapel mic... 3. A high quality hypercardiod mic... 4. A high quality Surround Sound or 3D Mic. Each have a distinct purpose and forte, and the truth is that there isn't a "single" mic that can do it all.

SHOTGUN MICS...
One of the most important purchases for your audio bag is a quality shotgun mic. Shotgun mics are idealRODE NTG-3 for outdoor settings and some studio environments to capture human voice with a slight touch of ambiance. Most often they are used on a boom pole just out of camera view and above an actor or person being interviewed. The cost to get the most popular broadcast quality shotgun mics range generally between $700.00 and $2000.00. Higher cost doesn't mean that it is more ideal due to a variety of reasons. Some mics can Schoeps CMIT 5 Uhandle all outdoor environments well, while others may not handle humidity or temperature fluctuations well. So it is important to research, and learn as much as possible about each mic prior to making a major purchase. Popular choices include the Rode NTG-3 (which we use) with a cost of $700.00, The Senheisser MKH-416 with a cost of $1000.00, and the Schoeps CMIT5U with a price of $2200.00.

It's important to test the mics if you can to determine your preference. While we had a budget in mind of $1500.00, we chose the Rode NTG-3 based on our preference of sound. The Senheisser is without question, the industry "go to microphone". We found the Rode to be a touch bassier, which we liked. The Sennheisser sounded best with mid tones, another great quality. But between the two it was very very close to the same sound in our opinion and it came down to a matter of preference.

UHF TRANSMITTERS / RECIEVERS / + LAPEL MICS
Getting the best vocals means having your mic as close to the source as possible. That is where lavalier micsEW 100 G Series and wireless transmitters come in. I don't have a lot of experience with other brands other than the Senheisser EW 100G Series. I bought these on recommendation, and they have been incredible. They have never let me down so far, and we now own 3 units. These are pretty much industry standard for those on a budget, and the basic kit costs around $680.00. You can jump well beyond these as well into brands like Lectrosonics costing twice as much.

Lectrosinics Plus TRAM TR-50 Kit One advantage of the Lectrosonics brand is that they come standard with the Tram TR50 lapel mic. We run Tram mics on all of our units rather than the standard mic that comes with the Senheisser unit and the difference in sound is night and day. Voices are clear, natural and bassy with the Tram. One Tram TR-50 kit costs $310.00 alone. So, if you are considering making a purchase, you might want toTram Cage consider learning as much as possible about both the Senheisser and Lectrosonics brands prior to diving in. One big advantage of the Tram TR-50 is that it offers a boatload accessory options for attaching the mic to your subject in hidden fashion including the Tram Cage which can be hidden behind clothing easily.

HYPERCARDIOD MIC
AKG Blue Line Think of your hypercardiod as your shotgun for indoor filming. It's great on a boom just above camera, but unlike the shotgun mic, it doesn't pick up ambiance as well. They have similar patterns for picking up audio on the front side, but in situations where you may have a low ceiling, the hypercardiod is your better option. The reason being is that hypercardiods pickup 100% of it's audio from the front of the mic. Shotgun mics on the other hand pickup 80% from the front, 10% from the rear, and 5% from the rear/sides of the mic. This means that when voices echo off the ceiling it will be picked up on the shotgun, but not on the hypercardiod. A solid choice, that we use, is the AKG Blue Line CK93. If you compliment that with the SE300B power supply the cost is around $500.00.

AMBIANCE MICS
Beyond vocals, you also have the option to capture ambiance to add to your films. We've recently purchasedMitra 3D Mic Pro the Mitra 3D Mic Pro for our audio bag and it's been a welcomed addition. There are many other true surround sound mics out there to look into, but this one is kind of unique. The best way to describe it is that it captures what you truly hear with your ears when you close your eyes. Sounds on the left of you sound like they are on the left and vice versa. It's ideal for creating depth and mood to your films and great for Foley as well. Cost is $1000.00, but well worth every penny in my personal experience for those that want immersive audio on a budget. The next step beyond is $5000.00 when you jump towards Holophone which captures true 5.1 surround, but that requires six XLR inputs as well.

So that is the scoop when it comes to microphones and the options available. You can spend as much as you want on audio gear that I have come to know. We were after broadcast quality audio, but needed to be budget concious as well, and we are thrilled with the choices we have made. I would proudly recommend any of the gear mentioned here as solid options that will give you the quality you expect, and hope this helps those that are stepping into audio for their upcoming film projects.

Canon C300 vs RED Scarlet

2011-11-04T11:35:06Z

The New Canon C300

It's been a big week for cinematographers and photographers alike. After Canon announced the 1Dx at the PhotoPlus Expo, they made a historic announcement at a Hollywood event as well that they were focusing R&D on the motion picture industry. The huge success of the Canon 5D Mark II, the system we currently use, helped to drive Canon in this new direction.

Last night Canon make a huge debut in the right direction introducing their new C300 cinema camera! It looks to be quite an impressive system that is ideally suited for television and broadcast. What is most remarkable is the compact size of the camera, and the fact that it has built in neutral density filters. It's an S35 size chip that is capable of 4K capture. However, my understanding is that while capable, it only records 1080p. Speculative price range is somewhere around $20,000, which isn't bad when compared to other options currently available.4k Canon Prototype

However, there is also a prototype camera that could be the system of the future that looks nearly identical to the new 1Dx recently announced that could prove to grow in to a full frame 4K hybrid of some sort. This would be welcomed with open arms by those of us moving towards motion picture from the still photography side of the industry. Ideally, this photographer would like to see a hybrid system that would give us the option to capture high resolution stills, 4K video, or 1080p all in one package so that we could simply meet the demands of all assignments with one camera.

The new RED SCARLET

Sounds bold I realize, but it's already being done by RED who announced that their long awaited Scarlet camera is ready to ship. With a price tag of $14,000 for the full kit which includes batteries, a side grip, a touch screen LCD monitor, and capture media, this camera is a force to be reconed with. Red Scarlet captures a very wide dynamic range of 13-18 stops according to their website, and uses Red Code which is basically a RAW capture state for video that is similar to the RAW format of still cameras.

Their original RED ONE system and RED EPIC camera released earlier this year, with a price tag of nearly $60,000, for the kit has become the new standard of excellence for major Hollywood motion picture companies. 35mm film was always the gold standard, but these new Digital Cinema cameras are truly taking over, so it's no suprise to see Canon quicky evolving in that direction.

Since we are jumping back to Canon, I should also mention that they also debuted a new line of Cine-Lenses as well, which was a great move towards the direction things are going. Both the RED system and the Canon system have PL or Canon mount options, which makes the use of the entire line of EOS lenses.

Canon's New Line of Cine-Lenses

Things are shaping up to make the future of imaging and cinema quite different than they currently are. The ability to capture 4K video or have smaller footprint cameras means that anyone with a $30,000 budget can get out and make a film with a camera that produces the quality we've come to expect in theaters. Now, creating a storyline that can compete, that's another question entirely:)

New Speaking Engagements

2011-10-18T23:18:47Z

Just wanted to give a heads up to wedding photographers in the Northeast that I will be giving two full day programs on coming up in the next couple of weeks. On Oct. 24th, I will be speaking to the Delaware Valley Guild of Professional Photographers.

Also, I just signed on to speak at the New Jersey PPA conference on Oct. 31st. Yes of this year. My understanding is that the photographer they had planned on was coming from over seas and they aren't able to make it for personal reasons. So, I agreed to jump in. I'll provide a link as soon as it goes live.

Both programs will have two missions...

1. To get you past the status quo when it comes to composition and ligthing. The morning part of the program will be visually intense and I am planning on sharing an up close and personal look into lighting for portraits and photojournalism at weddings.

2. Marketing and Public Relations.... We all know that referrals are the key factor to any successful service business. In fact, we photograph nearly 100% on referrals from satisfied clients and wedding planners. However, there are some things you can be doing to place yourself in the path of potential customers. So, we'll be helping you to realize the potential of becoming the best kept secret in your area.

I hope you'll join me for a fun and intense day of learning. My programs include a lot of information so be prepared to soak it all in...

Canon's New Flagship D1x

2011-10-18T14:08:00Z

Well, the moment many have been waiting for.... Today Canon announced it's much anticipated new Flagship camera the Canon 1Dx, which combines many of the features of the 1D Mark IV and the 1Ds models with many major upgrades as well. This is a pro level camera with workhorse durability. Featuring a full frame chip, this will no doubt be a big hit among both still photographers and independant filmmakers alike.

Here are some details, along with a few comments on the features...
18 MegaPixel Full Frame Chip
While more megapixels have long been the rage of what makes an upgrade worthwhile, this time Canon has taken a new approach. For a lot of pros, this one included, more data doesn't equal the best workflow for the majority of money making assignments. Personally I would much rather see the focus shift towards the cleanest file possible, and 18 megapixels fits the bill for 99% of the work we do and that is exactly what Canon has done with this new model.

ISO range from 50 to 204,800

This is entirely new chip with larger pixels and new technology that is giving a new ISO boost to the 1Dx as well. I expect that we'll see usable ISO's in the 24,000 range, but we'll have to wait and see. That would be a huge boost of two stops off the current 1D Mark IV model that we push to 6400, and a welcomed advantage for low light situations.

Shutters tested to 400,000
A newly designd carbon fiber shutter doubles the expected lifespan of the shutter. Since we do a lot of timelapse photography, I'll personally be a big fan of a shutter than can last that long.

12 Frames per second
Wow... There is even a super high speed mode that will deliver 14 Frames per second. Not critical for most of our work, but I am sure sports photographers will be in love. I could definitely see this usable for motion time lapse shooting as well.

HD VIDEO
A few surprises on the Video front that will sit very well with filmmakers. First and foremost, Timecode! This a biggie that will help sync muliple cameras and audio captured from third party devices. Audio monitoring and manual controls. Another biggie because it's the feature that was missed on all other DSLR's. Better Codecs are also being touted for improved video quality. Sadly, no RAW video and only 1920x1080 resolution, plus only 60p. It would have been VERY ambitious to create a system with 120 FPS, RAW Video, and a 4K of course. What can I say other than I like to think big :). However, with 29 minute recording and stiching available, this is another big upgrade that will help the filmmaker world.

NEWLY REDSIGNED ERGONOMICS
New button placement for some of the key features are another sweet new feature. The Live View button is just above the thumb dial which should make activation easy and understandable.

DUAL CARD SLOTS
Finally we also are seeing Dual CF card slots for backing up of data or rolling over to the second chip. This feature has been on the XF line of camcorders, and it is a nice addition on the new flagship.

That about covers most of the details that we find most impressive. We are excited to see a new pro-level flagship debut, and as a working photographer, personally I am thrilled that Canon focused their efforts on making an ideal system for those of us that put our cameras through a lot of rough and tough situations. Looking forward to getting my hands on one come next spring when they debut!

Make sure to visit Canon's website for all the incredible specs and details.. For now, here is the official press release..

Full press release below:

Canon U.S.A. Introduces The New Canon EOS-1D X Digital SLR Camera, Re-Designed from the Inside Out

Featuring a Completely New 61-Point Autofocus, Fast Shooting up to 12 fps, 18-Megapixel Full-Frame CMOS Sensor, Full HD Video Recording and Much More

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., October 18, 2011 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, is proud to introduce a completely revolutionized EOS-1D series camera, the Canon EOS-1D X Digital SLR camera.* As the new leader in Canon’s arsenal of professional DSLRs, the EOS-1D X will be a high-speed multimedia juggernaut replacing both the EOS-1Ds Mark III and EOS-1D Mark IV models in Canon’s lineup. Enhancing the revolutionary image quality of the EOS-1Ds and speed capabilities of the EOS-1D series, the EOS-1D X DSLR features an 18-megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS sensor, Dual DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processors, 14-bit A/D data conversion and capable of shooting an incredible 12 frames-per-second (fps). Canon’s EOS DSLR cameras and accessories have a long-standing legacy of providing high-quality results to professionals in a wide range of markets, including sports, nature, cinematography, wedding and commercial studios. The addition of this new model will help take this tradition to a whole new level.

The EOS-1D X announcement comes on the heels of Canon’s recent manufacturing milestone with the production of the Company’s 50-millionth EOS-series SLR camera in September of 2011. Furthermore, Canon will achieve yet another milestone at the end of this month producing the 70-millionth EF lens.

“The EOS-1D X represents the re-invention of the EOS-1Ds and EOS-1D series, combining new proprietary Canon technologies with the culmination of customer feedback and requests from the field. We are proud to introduce this camera to the worldwide community of professional photographers and cinematographers with the features and capabilities they need to capture the great moments that display their talent,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

The Camera With Three Brains

The EOS-1D X features three DIGIC processors, including Dual DIGIC 5+ image processors capable of delivering approximately 17 times more processing speed than DIGIC 4, and a dedicated DIGIC 4 for metering and AF control. In conjunction with the newly developed high-performance 18-megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS image sensor, the Dual DIGIC 5+ processors provide high-speed continuous shooting, lower noise, and a significant increase in data processing speed than previous EOS-1D models. This new level of data processing speed allows the EOS-1D X to perform many functions including chromatic aberration correction for various Canon EF lenses in-camera instead of through post-production software. The DIGIC 4 processor utilizes a new 100,000-pixel RGB Metering Sensor for enhanced exposure accuracy with color and face detection, and works together with the camera’s new EOS iTR (Intelligent Tracking and Recognition) AF.

The EOS-1D X employs a completely new imaging sensor, producing the lowest noise of any EOS digital camera to date for stunning portraiture and studio work. The new 18-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor utilizes large pixels – 1.25 microns larger than those in the EOS-1D Mark IV sensor and .55 microns larger than those in the EOS 5D Mark II sensor – together with gapless microlenses to achieve enhanced light gathering efficiency, higher sensitivity and less noise at the pixel level. The new sensor has improved on the already very high signal-to-noise ratio of sensor output of earlier EOS models for outstanding image quality, even in extremely low light. When combined with the Dual DIGIC 5+ imaging processors the results are stunning. The images produced with the EOS-1D X camera’s new sensor are so clean that files can easily be up-sized if necessary for even the most demanding high-resolution commercial applications. The EOS-1D X will also feature new Ultrasonic Wave Motion Cleaning (UWMC), Canon’s second generation self-cleaning sensor unit, which utilizes carrier wave technology to remove smaller dust particles from the sensor and it includes a new fluorine coating on the infrared absorption glass to help repel dust.

The low-light capability of the EOS-1D X is evident in its incredible ISO range and ability to photograph in extremely low-light conditions. Adjustable from ISO 100 to 51,200 within its standard range, the new model offers a low ISO 50 setting for studio and landscape photography and two high settings of 102,400 at H1 and 204,800 at H2, ideal for law enforcement, government or forensic field applications.

New 61-Point High Density Reticular AF

The EOS-1D X includes a brand new 61-Point High Density Reticular AF, the most sophisticated DSLR AF system Canon has ever released. The 21 focusing points in the central area are standard precision cross-type and effective with maximum apertures as small as f/5.6, depending on the lens in use. The center five points are also high-precision diagonal cross-type points for maximum apertures as small as f/2.8. All 61 points are sensitive to horizontal contrast with maximum apertures as small as f/5.6 and 20 of the outer focusing points function as cross-type points with maximum apertures as small as f/4.0. Other innovations of the new 61-point High Density Reticular AF include expanded AF coverage area, superior focusing precision and low light sensitivity, and greater low-contrast subject detection capability compared to earlier EOS AF systems. (See image below for AF point configuration)

All AF functions now have their own menu tab for quick and easy access (formerly AF custom functions in previous EOS models). A new AF Configuration Tool allows for customized setting of tracking sensitivity, the acceleration and deceleration of tracking subjects, and AF point auto switching, all of which are easily accessed and adjusted via the new AF menu tab. A built-in Feature Guide advises photographers on which settings to use according to subject matter.

Similar to the AF point selection options offered in the EOS 7D Digital SLR camera, the EOS-1D X offers six AF point selection modes: Spot, Single Point, Single Point with surrounding four points, Single Point with surrounding eight points, Zone selection and Automatic AF point selection. (See image below AF point selection options.)

EOS iTR AF: Intelligent Tracking and Recognition Enhances AF Performance

The Canon EOS-1D X features incredible new EOS iTR (Intelligent Tracking and Recognition) AF options ideal for wedding and event photography as well as sports and photojournalism. The default AF mode for the EOS-1D X uses phase detection AF information, while a new second option uses Face Detection technology to track recognized faces in addition to color information, ideal when shooting events such as tennis or dancing where facial recognition of the original subject will help keep that person in focus throughout the scene.

Exposure Control

For the first time in a Canon DSLR camera, a DIGIC processor is used exclusively with the metering sensor for fast, accurate exposure control. The Canon DIGIC 4 processor takes advantage of the EOS-1D X’s 100,000-pixel RGB Metering Sensor and utilizes 252 zones for general metering or 35 zones for low-light metering to help ensure accurate evaluative ambient or flash exposure. The new subject recognition capabilities enhance nearly all of the camera’s automatic functions, helping to adjust exposure, autofocus, Auto Lighting Optimizer and Automatic Picture Style to the scene being captured for enhanced image quality.

Multiple Exposure Modes

The EOS-1D X is the first EOS Digital SLR to feature Multiple Exposure capability. The camera can combine up to nine individual images into a single composite image, with no need for post-processing in a computer. Four different compositing methods are provided for maximum creative control, including Additive, Average, Bright and Dark. Compositing results can be viewed in real time on the camera’s LCD monitor, and there is a one-step Undo command that allows photographers to delete an image and try again if desired. The EOS-1D X’s Multiple Exposure mode even allows photographers to specify a previously captured RAW image as the starting point for a new Multiple Exposure composite image.

Super High Speed Mode

The Canon EOS-1D X camera breaks new ground in the world of digital SLRs, offering a Super High Speed Mode which increases shooting speeds up to 14 fps at full 18-megapixel resolution in JPEG mode. The new camera is also capable of shooting RAW, JPEG, or RAW+JPEG at speeds up to 12 fps in One Shot AF or AI Servo AF for enhanced performance in sports photography and other applications requiring high-speed digital capture. This new level of performance is made possible by the combination of the EOS-1D X’s 16-channel readout CMOS sensor, Dual DIGIC 5+ image processors, and a completely new reflex mirror mechanism that has been engineered by Canon to combine high-performance with exceptional precision and reliability.

Enhanced EOS HD Video – New Compressions, Longer Recording

Centered around an all-new full-frame CMOS sensor with larger pixels than those found on the EOS 5D Mark II image sensor, the EOS-1D X utilizes new HD video formats to simplify and speed up post-production work. The two new compression formats offered on the EOS-1D X include intraframe (ALL-i ) compression for an editing-friendly format and interframe (IPB) compression for superior data compression, giving professionals the options they need for their ideal workflow. Answering the requests of cinematographers and filmmakers, the EOS-1D X includes two methods of SMPTE-compliant timecode embedding, Rec Run and Free Run, allowing multiple cameras or separate sound recording to be synced together in post production.

Canon’s all new full-frame CMOS sensor ensures that video footage captured on the EOS-1D X will exhibit less moiré than any previous Canon model, resulting in a significant improvement in HD video quality. A desired feature for many documentary filmmakers using Canon DSLRs was to enable recording beyond the four gigabyte (GB) file capacity and the EOS-1D X is the answer. The new camera features automatic splitting of movie files when a single file exceeds 4GB. The new file splitting function allows for continuous video recording up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds across multiple 4GB files; no frames are dropped and the multiple files can be seamlessly connected in post production, providing filmmakers the recording time they want in the same convenient DSLR form factor. The camera records Full HD at 1920 x 1080 in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); and 720p HD or SD video recording at either 50p or 60p (59.94). SD video can be recorded in either NTSC or PAL standards.

The Canon EOS-1D X also includes manual audio level control, adjustable both before and during movie recording, an automatic setting, or it can be turned off entirely. A wind filter is also included. Sound can be recorded either through the internal monaural microphone or via an optional external microphone through the stereo mic input.

Enhanced Ergonomics & Optimized Design

Photographers familiar with Canon’s EOS 1D-series of cameras will notice the control configuration of the EOS-1D X takes a different approach to button placement. The re-designed exterior and ergonomic button configuration feels comfortable in your right hand, allowing seamless navigation through menu options.

The Live View Button has been conveniently placed near the user’s thumb for one-touch switching between Live View and Viewfinder shooting. The Quick Control Button and menu navigation controls will allow users to change camera settings using only their right hand, for fast, simple one-handed control using their thumb on the scroll wheel. The new multi-controller is positioned by the right hand thumb when the camera is held for vertical shooting and enables the same level of control to camera operators when shooting vertically as they have when shooting horizontally. On the front of the camera are four user assignable function buttons, two for vertical shooting and two for horizontal shooting, allowing customizable button control when shooting in either position. The camera also features a level of weather resistance equivalent to earlier professional models such as the EOS-1D Mark IV.

Canon has answered the request of many professional EOS photographers and incorporated Dual Card Slots into the new EOS-1D X DSLR camera. The dual CF card slots will allow photographers to carry only one memory card format and still achieve instant image back-ups and enhanced storage capacity.

This camera also features a new shutter design with even greater durability and precision. Rated to 400,000 cycles, the new carbon fiber shutter blades are more lightweight and durable, allowing the EOS-1D X to achieve over 100,000 cycles more than the shutter of the EOS-1D Mark IV. A new shutter motion and new motor help further reduce vibration in the camera. The EOS-1D X also features an electronic first curtain, new to the EOS-1D series DSLRs, for minimal in-camera vibration during image capture.

Connectivity

For professional photographers who prefer a wired workflow and transfer system, Canon has included a built-in LAN connection in the EOS-1D X DSLR. The built-in LAN connection features a gigabit Ethernet Jack capable of 1000BASE-T transmission speeds, offering photographers a stable wired connection for ultra-fast data transmission. If the network were to go down, the camera will attempt to resend images until the files are sent. The EOS-1D X also features a direct image transfer function whereby images can be selected for transfer, and only sent once a LAN or USB connection is established.

Accessories

Designed exclusively for the EOS-1D X, the new Canon WFT-E6A Wireless File Transmitter* features wireless LAN support for 802.11n network transfer rates providing users with increased communication speed when compared to previous models. With this new dust and weather resistant model, professionals can synchronize clocks on multiple cameras and use the unit to support linked shooting when utilizing multiple cameras. In addition, Bluetooth-compatible equipment can be easily linked to the device as well.

The EOS-1D X also offers an optional Canon GP-E1 GPS Receiver*, which can be easily integrated into the camera’s body. Powered by the camera, this GPS receiver provides the same weatherproof resistance as the EOS-1D X, even at the connector. With an electronic compass on-board, the GP-E1 will log movement – latitude, longitude, elevation, and the Universal Time Code – and allow viewing of camera movement on a PC after shooting. The receiver will also record camera direction when shooting, even when shooting vertically.

Pricing and Availability

The Canon EOS-1D X Digital SLR camera is scheduled for March 2012 availability and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $6,800.00. The compact, lightweight WFT-E6A Wireless File Transmitter is scheduled to be available in March 2012 and have an estimated retail price of $600. Availability for the GP-E1 GPS receiver is expected in April 2012 with an estimated retail price of $300.

Steve Jobs 1955-2011

2011-10-06T23:20:33Z

I love this simple photo on the Apple website today...

Strangely, even though I've never met Steve Jobs, when my nephew texted me from his iPhone to my mine that he had passed away, I felt something come over me. It's simply amazing that a person that I've never met before could have such a huge impact on my personal life, and countless others of course as well.

I didn't post on his passing yesterday on Facebook or Twitter, etc... I guess I just needed a little time for it to all sink in. So many big companies are faceless. In most cases CEO's make their billions, while hiding from their customers. Today as I worked on my Mac Pro, Macbook Pro, iPhone, iPad, etc... I realized that the majority of my passing life is spent on an invention of Steve's.

As both an American and a human being, I am proud to know that there was a man who tried, failed, and tried again over and over and over... Apple is not a perfect company. In fact, had I gotten a chance to know Steve personally there are quite a few things I would have disagreed strongly about when it came to product updates and changes. But with that said, you can't help but love that there was a person who stood their ground, dreamed bigger than life, and believed so much in posibilities that he was willing to stand tall, push on, and be the face of such a creative company.

Society owes you a great deal of gratitude for the inventions you've brought to life. You have made the impossible possible in so many ways. Thank you for believing in yourself and for pushing on for as long as you did. RIP Steve Jobs... Thank you... Thank you... Thank you...

Set to Screen / Apple / Australia

2011-09-25T16:27:18Z

So, this is quite dated, but I came a across the Set to Screen series of podcasts on iTunes for the Movie Australia. Director Baz Luhrmann takes you on a journey throughout the filmaking process covering a wide range of topics from location shooting, to sound production, to editing, and more. It's vague, but at the same time very interesting to see how the movie came together. Just thought this may be of interest to anyone dreaming about their next film project. Here is a link to them all.. feed://www.apple.com/podcasts/settoscreen/sts_baz_08.xml

Canon vs. Red Showdown Nov. 3

2011-09-24T19:35:20Z

If you are a photographer or a filmaker, you no doubt have your eye on Nov. 3rd, 2011. A couple of weeks ago, Canon made a bold statement that they were going to make a historical announcement in Hollywood. We can only guess what that may be. Then in a recent statement Jim Jannard of Red made the announcment that they too would be making a big announcment of their own.

On the Canon side, I am keeping my fingers crossed, and dreaming, that they will debut the Canon 5D Mark III, or similar system, with a full frame sensor and 4k Resolution Option. Of course something affordable would be nice, but there are a multitude of directions Canon could turn with this. It could be a camcorder for all anyone knows, or it could be a VERY expensive Cinema Camera.

On the Red side it rumours that they will announce that Scarlett is ready to ship immediately and that the exact features will be announced on Nov. 3rd. Again, these are simply rumours. Nobody that knows will dare share. I know that I wouldn't even if I did have inside information! That is a priviledge to take seriously.

So, I guess we will all have to wait and see exactly what this will all boil down to. I've never heard Canon make such a bold statement, and when they launch something they are always ready to roll it out. Red of course makes these kinds of statements all the time and then says "but we are 100% sure when this will all get done, and everything is subject to change." But, I can't hold that against them because they are a relatively small company that is pushing the creative envelope. You have to take your hats off to them for even dreaming up such a big idea.

I am a big Canon fan, so I'll mostly be watching to see what they announce. Exciting times to be in this every changing industry!

Profoto Continuous Light

2011-09-17T15:58:27Z

Profoto recently added an HMI back into their lineup of lighting tools along with a new 1000 watt Tungsten light as well. HD video production with DSLR cameras has really taken off. But there has always been a challenge on commercial photo-shoots when both video and stills had to be captured of the same subjects. This solution helps to solve all of that.

With Profoto being, by far, the leading rental gear at rental studios around the world this is a natural idea that really makes a lot of sense. What is amazing about the new HMI called the "Pro Daylight Air", and the Tungsten units called the "Pro Air Tungsten" is that photographers can use many of the same light shaping tools for both stills and video. Tools like Parabolic Reflectors, Beauty Dishes, and Giant Reflectors are ideal for commercial video projects and since we already have them on set for stills, we won't have to pack double the grip to pull off both stills and video within the same shoot. It also helps to know that the look of the video will closely match the look of the stills as well, which is ideal when you are trying to tie to two together.

On a recent photo-shoot, the Profoto team fimed several different ways in which we light our subjects using 1, 2, and 4 light setups. Since they used the new Pro-Air Continuous lights during the shoot for video, we got to see first hand just how gorgeous the light quality was. What surprised me is that, just by opening your eyes, you witnessed a crisp and clean quality, that was a far cry from other Tungsten Fresnels we've used.

So, we just placed an order ourselves for a Pro Daylight Air 800 and two Pro Air Tungsten 1000's. We're excited about the idea of being able to light for motion picture to the same high standards as we do for stills. The commercial applications for this kind of specialty light is endless. As we evolve and get some practice under our belts with them, we'll post some more tips and ideas along the way. For now, take a look at the video above or visit the Profoto site for more information on thes really cool new lights.

Zacuto EVF Pro

2011-09-02T14:41:53Z

With so many video projects lining up here at Maring Visuals, we decided to pickup a Zacuto EVF, or ElectronicZacuto EVF on our Red Rock Rig Viewfinder. I had never seen one in person, but read some reviews, and researched a little online as well. Fact is, there really isn't another option out there at this time. It is the first of it's kind, but I wasn't sure what to expect.

We've had a Z-Finder for a long time now, and it most definitely helped make a difference when it came to focusing DSLR cameras for video purposes. But, while it helped, it still wasn't as easy as we dreamed it would be. The EVF solves critical focus for DSLR cameras, and we've been enjoying it.

The EVF is SHARP. Very sharp... The Z-Finder attaches to it if you want to use it as a viewfinder. And, on the Pro or Flip versions, you can flip the Z-Finder up and simply use the monitor portion instead. It can attach to the hot shoe of a camera, or it can be added to a rig with an articulating arm as well.

Our rig has become very customized based on what we like. Today, we are running a Red Rock Micro Eye Spy with a couple of extra handles, a Cinevate Durus Follow Focus, a Flex Remore, and now we've added the Z-Finder EVF. We are working on building a new Cinevate Simplis Rig as well, but more on that in a later post.

Another nice feature of the Zacuto EVF is that it allows you to place your camera in the center of your rig, rather than offset. This makes for a much more comfortable shooting environment and makes those long heavy holds a little easier.

I would definitely recommend the Zacuto EVF for anyone shooting a lot of video on DSLR cameras, especially if you have a rig. It helps dramatically when it comes to critical focus, and we all know that it saves on the eye strain as well.