If you're interested in keeping scratches or wear marks off your camera, there's a number of different Silicone skins. Here's a video from YouTube member ZepsTips showing the fit and finish of the Delkin Snug Fit Silicone body armor
Delkin Snug Fit Silicone Camera Body Armor
While the world is waiting for GoPro to release it's Flat Lens Dive Housing, there have been other companies already selling some solutions. While those solutions aren't warrantied by GoPro and will cost you an extra dime, this clever little solution from Jomol will save you a few bucks as a workaround. For this you'll need the extended LCD back housing that gives you a bit of room to turn the GoPro Hero camera backwards inside the housing. Beats trying to make one yourself and risk water leakage. What I like about this idea is that you can probably cut a few colored gels to help you get some better white balance underwater. If you're not up to speed about the issues of Underwater video with the GoPro, check out this article here: http://cheesycam.com/gopro-underwater-blurfix-flat-lens-kit/
You'll get this special back piece when purchasing the GoPro Hero LCD BacPac Kit
From our survey of the people this week in Vegas, the new BlackMagic Cinema Camera was the biggest thing at NAB2012 this year. The first commercially available video camera to shoot RAW for under $3K. It will be interesting to see what people think about the camera once it starts shipping. If you plan on getting one leave a commment, i'm taking a poll on what the interest is out there. Today it's available for Pre-Order via B&H (click here).
Black Magic Cinema Camera RAW or Prores Video
I have absolutely no clue about 3D anything with the Panasonic GH2, but the optional 3D Lens which normally runs for $269 dollars, is now on sale for a limited time for just $69 dollars ($200 off). [Thanks jodybd] If you're experimenting with 3D photography on the GH2, there's no better lens and no better deal. Check it out at B&H (click here).
Panasonic GH2 3D Lens for Micro Four Thirds GH2
Sorry for lack of posts, but we've been out gathering various product interviews here at NAB2012. Of course, one new product that has everyone speaking is the new BlackMagic Cinema Camera. It has the ability to capture 2.5K RAW to a an SSD drive or to ProRes and DNxHD at 1920 x 1080. Priced under $3K, that's cheaper than the 5D Mark III and throws in a lot more features, like being able to capture the video output or to be used with Live Switching. A high speed Thunderbolt port adds for computer capture. The BlackMagic Cinema camera has a sensor size very close to a micro four thirds sensor (not exactly), comes with an EF mount for Canon shooters, and will have electronic iris control. No funky adapters needed. Supposedly you can also just double tap the 5" touch screen to focus.
The camera form factor reminds me of an Epson label printer, and doesn't look very comfortable to shoot with handheld. There's practically no grip handle like found in a DSLR, and instead you could buy an optional BlackMagic handle set. Your best bet is to build a 15mm/19mm Rail support. It does carry some very nice features, but doesn't have many external buttons or dials. Just watching them operate the touch screen to make adjustments to change ASA might be a little slow for people who need to dial in quick. I believe they will offer an external remote that could make some of this a faster workflow.
It was so crowded in this area, I had a hard time getting a few pictures in, but you can find all the sexy images and technical information at https://www.blackmagic-design.com/products/blackmagiccinemacamera/
Pre-Order via B&H (click here).
Black Magic Cinema Camera RAW or Prores Video
NAB2012 - SmallHD announces 2 new DP7 LCD Monitors to add to their lineup and also a very clever molded 5D Mark II HDMI lock that attaches to the D-Ring (normally where the camera strap resides), and still provides access to all your other inputs. Currently I have the SmallHD DP4 (EVF) and the DP6 which works perfectly in our workflow. I don't know if i'll be able to afford the new DP7 LCD monitors, but i'm sure in for the HDMI lock. The information will be available at SmallHD.com
Vimeo member Zolinger puts up an example of a compact video jib. Pretty cool stuff, but I have to say it looks very very close to some other models available on eBay for about half the price. You make the decision.
Here's a link to Zolinger's eBay store (click here)
Zolinger Camera Jib.
Here's where you can find what looks like the exact same camera cranes for sometimes less than half the price (including pan head and tripod).
Video Camera Cranes Video Jib
Odd looking camera support sent in by LJ [Thanks LJ]. The Ready Rig Looks functional, maybe even comfortable. A pair of rods attached to a spring loaded back support, offers total hands free operation of the camera. The camera rests on a front platform that has tilt and rotate abilities. Could be tricky getting in and out of something like this if you need to move quick, and the basic package will already run you $800 dollars. There's some additional videos at the Alba Camera Support website. What's your take on the Ready Rig?
Vimeo member Dan Eckert has been working on a dolly project for some time to be used wit his Hyperlapse / Timelapse videos. The dolly is designed to have adjustable wheels to ride on rails or on terrain with pneumatic tires. The video above shows some examples of his work, but keep in mind that there is some scenes with image stabilization done in post. Aside from Time Lapse videos, the dolly still operates as a standard track or table dolly. Price of the unit starts at around $1500 + optional accessories. You can find more about his product (soon to be released) by visiting thecamtrac.com. [Thanks Dan]
