ROUND TABLE
DEFINITION: Looking back over the past five years, what do you think has been the most significant development in PTZ technology? KARL SO: I think the most significant developments have been advances in sensor technology and CMOS module design. The move from HD to 4K resolution, along with optical zoom ranges increasing from 5x to 30x, has created a much broader choice of PTZ cameras to suit different applications. At the same time, demand for more advanced controllers has grown rapidly, particularly for automation, AI-assisted tracking and remote operation. MATTHEW DAVIS: Looking back, the most transformative shift hasn’t been a single feature, but the transition of PTZ cameras from niche utility items to central components of intelligent video ecosystems. The integration of advanced AI- powered automation, particularly voice-tracking and autonomous subject following (like Presenter Lock), has redefined what a camera does; it’s now an active participant in production rather than just a passive observer. Simultaneously, the maturation of IP- based production through protocols like NDI HX3 and Dante AV-H has provided the low-latency, broadcast-quality transport that high-end filmmakers once found lacking in robotic systems. DAN MIALL: PTZ cameras have evolved from products originally adapted from the security market into purpose-built production tools. Today’s PTZs offer image quality, colour control, motion accuracy and operational flexibility that increasingly rival traditional broadcast cameras. Just as importantly, modern PTZ cameras increasingly evolve through software rather than hardware alone. Firmware updates can deliver significant improvements throughout a product’s lifetime, from image processing and autofocus refinements to entirely new workflows, protocols and control capabilities. After purchase, a PTZ can continue to evolve alongside production requirements, extending its useful life and protecting the customer’s investment.
At the same time, the conversation has moved beyond simply delivering 4K. Larger sensors, better optics, more sophisticated image processing and improved colour science are becoming genuine differentiators that directly impact production quality. CLAIRE LAM: PTZ cameras have gone from simple, remotely operated cameras into intelligent imaging systems capable of delivering broadcast-quality results. Advances in sensor technology, autofocus, image processing and AI have significantly improved image quality. AI-powered tracking technology has been one of the most significant developments. Modern PTZ cameras are no longer limited to basic subject- following; they can recognise people, maintain natural framing and support more intelligent camera operation. This has opened up new possibilities across broadcast, corporate production, education, live events and houses of worship, etc. AI is also evolving beyond human tracking into more specialised applications. For example, sports production requires cameras to follow fast-moving action, and technologies such as ball tracking can enable PTZ cameras to automatically follow the movement of the ball while maintaining appropriate framing of players and the overall scene. These developments are expanding the role of PTZ cameras into areas that traditionally required dedicated camera operators. However, while AI and automation are important innovations, image quality remains the most critical
element. Producers ultimately judge a camera by the pictures it produces. BARRY GRIFFIN: Advances in AI-powered auto tracking and IP connectivity have transformed what PTZ systems can deliver. Today, a single operator can manage multiple cameras, automate shots and produce content that would previously have required a much larger crew. From my perspective at Canon, I’ve also seen the range of customers using PTZ expand significantly. We now work with broadcasters, podcasters, corporate studios, educational institutions, houses of worship and live event companies, all leveraging PTZ tech in different ways. The technology has become far more accessible while continuing to deliver the image quality and reliability that professionals expect. For me, that’s been the biggest development. PTZ has evolved from a specialist solution into an essential part of modern content creation and I believe we’re only beginning to see what’s possible. GUILHEM KRIER: A big development has been the shift towards fully integrated production ecosystems - PTZ cameras are no longer standalone devices, they are becoming intelligent, connected tools that combine advanced imaging, automation, robotics and IP- based workflows. A milestone has been the adoption of open workflow standards such as FreeD, which has enabled PTZ cameras to become an important part of AR, XR and virtual production environments. Another important area has been improving
HELPING HAND Sony believes PTZ camera tech, such as AI, will become valuable tools
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