subject: 7 Professional movie camera formats available in South Africa [print this page] 7 Professional movie camera formats available in South Africa
We're often asked about which camera format is suitable for a particular project. Each has their own pros and cons, creative and technical challenges, methodologies and cost implications.
Broadly, there are 7 different professional movie camera formats you can shoot with in South Africa:
1. 35mm Film
Film cameras have a long history, and have evolved considerably over time. In the right creative hands, film offers exceptional picture quality, and an enormous range of colour and light tones. Film aficionados often boast that they take much greater care in setting up their shots, knowing that the film stock itself is expensive.
Kodak and Fuji film stock are easily obtainable, and Cape Town and Johannesburg have accredited film processing labs. Film shot elsewhere in the country, or in neighbouring counties (such as Namibia, Mauritius or Mozambique) can be couriered to and from these labs by specialist film couriers.
2. 16mm Film
16mm film stock is cheaper than 35mm, and still delivers the outstanding image quality of film. 16mm stock runs longer, so you require less of it. Also, 16mm Equipment is cheaper to rent; and lighter to move around.
3. High definition Video (HD)
HD has become the de facto standard for broadcast footage in many countries (and is currently being tested by South African Broadcasters for adoption in mid 2010). It's a useful format for TV, documentaries and web videos.
4. RED Camera
Many cinematographers believe the RED Camera which also shoots in HD represents the first real digital challenge to the image quality achievable with Film cameras. Unlike film, the RED Camera's footage can be viewed immediately after each shot and as the footage is already in a digital format, it can be fast-tracked into the post production process.
5. Digital SLR
One of the most innovative and exciting developments in filmmaking is using Digital SLR's like the Canon 7D, or the Nikon D5000 to film short inserts. The DSLR kit is generally inexpensive to rent and the body with lenses can be kept very compact.
6. Standard definition video (SD)
Unable to match the quality of HD, SD is fast becoming an outdated format. Many broadcasters will no longer accept work in this format. Nevertheless, it may be suitable for web virals and learner projects, where image quality is not of primary concern.
7. Specialist cameras
An enormous range of specialist cameras, lenses and accessories are available for rental from rental houses in South Africa. Many others can be quickly and easily couriered into South Africa. Some of these include the 3D, IMAX, Genesis, Phantom, Alexa and many other cameras.
