Blackmagic Design HDMI to SDI Mini Converter

Blackmagic Design’s HDMI to SDI Mini Converter makes HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) workflow easier than ever.  Popular DSLR cameras like the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and Canon EOS 7D feature HDMI ports that allow for seamless integration with the latest audio/video devices.  This relatively new digital alternative to analog connections has added to camera versatility but also limited options for video playback.  The Blackmagic HDMI to SDI converter widens the possibilities for DSLR cameras, creating SDI outputs from an HDMI sourc …

IDX Wevi Cam Wave Wireless HD-Video Transmission System

The IDX Wevi Cam Wave CW-5HD Video Transmission System offers a versatile solution for video playback on mobile and remote shoots.  With an integrated V-Mount, the lightweight Wevi transmitter mounts directly to the camera and accepts Anton Bauer batteries.  Automatically differentiating between HD-SDI and SD-SDI signals, the Wevi Wireless Video System is capable of transmitting a standard definition or high definition signal up to 150 feet.  Employing 2-channel embedded audio, the Wevi High Definition System also ensures audio/video synchro …

ARRI Alexa Showcased at CSC Florida

Caviar

ARRI CSC Florida opened their doors to unveil the new ARRI Alexa this past weekend.  This great event showcased the stunning engineering and versatility of ARRI’s latest addition to the film and video market.  Garnering the attention of South Florida’s seasoned film industry professionals, many experienced camera assistants and directors of photography came out to catch a glimpse of the Alexa at work.  Veteran first assistants Andy Fischer and Steve Ciffone, along with luminaries like Bart Tau (DP), were among the crowd.

[caption id=”atta …

The California Sunbounce Pro

The California Sunbounce Pro is a convenient and efficient solution for many lighting situations.  Consisting of tightly stretched fabric with two variant sides, zebra (a herringbone pattern of silver and gold) and white, the Sunbounce Pro can function as a reflector, diffuser, or shade.  Reflection of light from the zebra side reduces temperature by 400 degrees Kelvin (5000 Kelvin light is reduced to 4600 Kelvin when reflected).  Especially helpful when filming outside, the Sunbounce Pro can easily be handheld or c-stand mounted. With a col …

Matthews Hot Flags

Matthews Studio Equipment unveiled their new line of “Hot Flags” at this year’s NAB Convention in Las Vegas.  Engineered to withstand up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, Hot Flags can be placed directly in front of high wattage lights without fear of a burnout.

Comparing the Hot Flag in a side by side test with the Matthews Metal Hi Temp Flag, each was positioned just inches from an ARRI 12K HMI.  A hole was burned through the metal flag inside of ten minutes while the Hot Flag showed no signs of damage for the duration of the test.  Allow …

Marshall 7″ V-LCD70P-HDMI Monitor (5D/7D Compatible)

DSLR camera design, as evidenced by the Canon 5D Mark II and Canon 7D, favors the inclusion of HDMI ports for video playback.  Marshall’s 7” V-LCD70P-HDMI monitor takes full advantage of this design.

At only 1.3 pounds, this monitor greatly improves the functionality of a DSLR rig.  Easily attachable to an articulated arm, the Marshall V-LCD70P can be seamlessly integrated into a DSLR setup.  Packed with features (peaking filter, RGB gain and bias control, adjustable backlight, false color filter, 4-pin XLR power jack) the LCD70P offers …

The New ARRI ALEXA

ARRI’s newest digital camera, the ALEXA, is set to roll out this summer on a limited run.  Featured prominently at this year’s NAB Convention in Las Vegas, the ARRI ALEXA is already being touted as the next evolution in digital cinema.

Utilizing their experience as industry leaders in film camera production, ARRI’s latest effort aims at maintaining this reputation on the digital front.  With an ARRI-made Super 35 format sensor, the ALEXA can shoot 1080P direct to the camera.

[caption id="attachment_229" align="alignnone" width="225"] …

Florida Film Festivals

A producer’s job doesn’t end with the wrap party.  Keeping a finger on the pulse of the film festival circuit is an essential part of the process.  With the number of active festivals growing all the time, this can become extremely overwhelming.  For that reason, we’ve created a list of all the upcoming Florida film festival deadlines.  Good luck!

_________________________________________

Global Peace Film Festival

Orlando, Florida

September 21-26, 2010

 

Regular Deadline: Passed

Late Deadline: May 21

___________________ …

Digital Hollywood

In recent history, several of Hollywood’s most prominent directors have begun to favor digital cinematography.  For nearly a decade, Michael Mann has been at the forefront of this filmmaking revolution. 

Mann, quoted as saying “the future is digital, without a doubt,” has favored digital video cameras such as the Viper FilmStream and Sony CineAlta HD in the production of his most recent films.  Mann shot around 50 percent of 2004’s “Collateral” in HD after considering the results of low light footage shot with high-end digital came …

Florida Film Incentives

With budget cuts over the past five years, Florida film tax incentives have taken a hit.  After a reduction from $25 million available in 2007 down to $5 million in 2008 then up again to $10.8 million this year, visiting productions to the Sunshine State have varied in volume and become increasingly scarce.  As other states have pushed to get in on the $60 billion U.S. film industry, Florida now more than ever needs to reclaim its title as a film production heavyweight. 
 
Florida’s Office of Film & Entertainment (Tallahassee, FL) pro …