3 minute read
Cameras at NAB Show: The Evolution of PTZ
By Craig Johnston
New imaging technologies at the 2023 NAB Show will reflect the advances that AI, chip technology and virtual production have had on the development of cameras, lenses and camera support equipment, and in particular, compact studio PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) cameras.
Cameras
JVC will introduce its first NDI-(Network Device Interface) compatible broadcast cameras, the GY-HC500UN, GY-HC550UN and GY-HC500SPCN. Already found in several JVC PTZ cameras, NDI reduces the hardware required to operate, enables transmission of numerous video streams over a single connection. It also allows for multiple video sources to be managed in real-time with the NDI Discovery function. The NDI functionality also allows users to easily integrate several JVC cameras into one workflow.
Current HC500 Series users will also be able to have their cameras upgraded by JVC to implement the new NDI capabilities.
Canon U.S.A. will launch its CR-N700i 4K 60P 4:2:2 10-bit PTZ camera with a 1.0-inch Type CMOS Sensor and 12G-SDI connectivity. Designed for professional broadcast, studios and live event productions, the CR-N700 incorporates the intelligent AF from Canon’s popular professional video cameras such as the EOS C70 and XF605, producing precision focus across the entire pan, tilt and zoom range.
Sony will mark the NAB Show debut of its ILME-FR7, an E-mount interchangeable lens camera with a full-frame image sensor in a PTZ implementation. Its versatile remote control and cinematic features open creative possibilities in studio, live production, and filmmaking settings. The camera’s powerful connectivity, efficient multicamera workflow and comprehensive lens choices break through virtually any location space limitations.
Panasonic Connect will showcase a pair of its newest cameras for streaming and video operations. The AW-UE160 4K
PTZ camera
Ikegami will exhibit the latest-generation UHK-X700 and UHK-X750 broadcast cameras and BSX-100 base station. The UHK-X700 is designed for pedestal or tripod mounting or over-the-shoulder operation. Its front end comprises three 2/3-inch CMOS UHD sensors with global shutter. Full HDR/SDR support is included plus the ability to choose between BT.2020 and BT.709 chroma spaces.
Blackmagic Design will show its Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2, a powerful handheld 6K digital film camera with 6144 x 3456 Super 35 high resolution HDR sensor, dual native ISO, EF lens mount and direct recording to USB-C disks. The camera features the same generation 5 color science as the high-end Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K digital film camera but delivers an even greater advancement in image quality, according to the company. With 13 stops of dynamic range, it can shoot in bright sunlight or with almost no light at all.
Lenses
Fujinon will introduce what it calls “a totally new category of lens,” with the debut of its HK25-1000mm F2.8 Cine Box PL lens, a native PL-mount box lens that combines broadcast functionality with beautiful bokeh, delivering a cinematic look to live production. HZK25-1000 utilizes optical design technology to achieve a maximum aperture of F2.8 and 40x zoom ratio. This ultra-high zoom ratio lens is compatible with the large sensors of digital cinema cameras, yet provides a brightness of F2.8 at the wide-angle. Not only does it enable filming in low-light environments such as indoor concerts or nighttime events, but the shallow depth of field also provides the advantage of beautiful bokeh, bringing a cinematic look to live production.
Canon will showcase a suite of new lenses including the CINE-SERVO 15120mm T2.95-3.95 EF/PL (CN8x15 IAS S), Canon’s latest 8K CINE-SERVO lens for a broad range of productions. It achieves 8K optical performance throughout its entire zoom range, with 8K-compatible chromatic aberration correction and optimized coatings, reducing ghosting and flares inside the lens.
Cooke Optics will highlight a new 1940mm wide zoom in its Varotal/i FF range, which joins the 30-95mm medium and 85-215mm long zooms that were launched last year. The 19-40mm zoom completes the Varotal/i FF series, enabling Cooke to offer broad focal length coverage for the majority of production needs.
Camera Support
Shotoku will show its TI-11X elevator pedestal paired with the TG18i PT head to offer a highly capable robotic camera channel including elevation. The TI-11X is based on Fujinon’s HK251000mm F2.8 Cine Box PL Lens the new X-Height elevator column and offers a longer range of travel and increased speed over the TI-11 i-height pedestal. Like the TI-11, the TI-11X is aimed at studios where full manual override is not a priority.
Telemetrics will demo a new wireless video transmission and battery system for its OmniGlide Robotic Roving Platform that allows users to freely move the popular OmniGlide studio camera pedestal and avoid obstacles virtually anywhere in the studio without cables.
Videndum’s Sachtler brand will feature its aktiv fluid head product range with SpeedLevel and SpeedSwap technology that allows camera operators to mount, level and lock the head in seconds and to switch quickly from tripod, slider or hand-held shots in an instant to capture the widest range of shots in the shortest time. Three new products, aktiv10T, aktiv12T and aktiv14T 100mm fluid heads, bring the speed and control benefits of aktiv to camera operators with heavier payloads up to 16 kg. l
