Definition May 2020 WEB

FEATURE | REMOTE HEADS

3D repeat moves,” Speed says. “Bloop and camera sync, as well as a full data file of all axes, can be live transmitted to the VFX department. The Libra has been a favourite tool for many applications, but now it can give the VFX department the information they need from a remote head in real time, whatever rig it’s applied to.” There’s still more to come, though, as Speed goes on to say. “We’re currently working on the Libra accepting direct MIA files from the VFX department in order to speed up the previs to application time.” But what about the Matrix? “It’s a high-end stabilised remote head that offers fast interchanges of lens or camera packages with no delay to the production,” Speed explains. The four-axis stabilised gimbal features an open architecture, making it the only of its kind to offer 360° continuous roll without a patch cable between the twist and tilt axis. What this means practically, as Ian tells us, is that “the Matrix can now offer extremely long-lens stabilised shots without the ‘faff’ typically associated with heads of this kind”. SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS Next on our list is Aerial Camera Systems (ACS). Though ACS has some household feature films under its belt, the company is primarily involved in live broadcast events, covering some of the world’s biggest and most-watched events, including the 2016 Rio Olympics, Harry and Meghan’s royal wedding in 2018 and more World Cups and Championships than any non-sport fan would believe existed. This involves

ABOVE The open architecture of the four-axis Matrix head allows it to be mounted in any orientation

developments for 2020 were really driven by a significant expansion in UHD HDR format requirements across a number of major broadcast projects. This involved the full integration of the Sony HDC-P50 with various lenses, mechanical, electronic and software upgrades to our Smarthead 2 and Smarthead 3 systems. We’ve also developed, in-house, a flexible 12G fibre transmission with a Power Over SMPTE (POS) solution, which will now become a core element of all future rental provision. “Essentially, it allows us to seamlessly integrate highly flexible and high- performance compact remote technology into a live OB environment in a range of the latest broadcast format options from 1080p, HFR to 4K, HDR.” In terms of application in the field, or indeed on-set, this offering of a full camera channel is very significant. “We’re able to prepare the whole equipment package in advance, ensuring fast rig times and reliability onsite,” Coyde explains. But what about control? “A fully configurable work surface offers real-time lens feedback, shot box and multicamera control as well as AR graphics integration capabilities,” Coyde says. Doubtless, the latter is an essential in this specialist field. Coyde concludes: “The precision performance of Smarthead means that production teams will not see the difference in on-screen use compared to a manned camera.” Through conversation, it’s clear that this is the end goal: seamless integration and ultimate ease of use. Not just for these companies, but for everyone. And the challenging times the industry is currently facing show no sign of halting progress – not as far as these innovative companies are concerned, at least.

minicams, all manner of support – including the unique EyeFlyer blimp – and, of course, remote head technology. Matt Coyde, ACS sales director, tells us more: “Smarthead is more than just a remote head. In fact, it’s a complete channel based around compact camera types, like the Sony HDC-P1 or HDC-P50 for example, integrated with a SMPTE fibre transmission system. Between versions two and three, we can support the whole range of OB lenses from the widest ENG lenses right up to the largest 100x box type.” Turning toward more recent developments, Matt continues: “The key

Production teams will not see the difference in on-screen use compared to a manned camera

16 DEF I N I T ION | MAY 2020

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