Wildscreen 2016

Panasonic will be displaying a range of production cameras that are already in use within natural history production at the Wildscreen Tech Show – those being the VariCam 35, the VariCam LT and the AG-DVX200.

The VariCam 35 features a newly-developed Super 35mm MOS sensor which provides true 4K and UHD resolution, a wide dynamic range of 14+ stops, and an expansive colour gamut that exceeds BT.2020 in providing an image suitable for HDR delivery, in addition to achieving the renowned VariCam look. Variable frame rate recording from 1-120fps enables both overcranking and undercranking capabilities.

Furthermore, the VariCam 35 includes a dual-native ISO setting of 800 and 5000 which achieves much higher sensitivity without increasing noise – a useful feature for low-light scene shooting – whilst its modular design allows the front end to be detached from the recorder via an optional 5m or 20m extension cable, which provides extra flexibility when shooting on cranes or jibs.

The VariCam LT is the latest addition to the VariCam lineup, and comes in a compact and lightweight magnesium body for run-and-gun, single operation work. The VariCam LT features the Super 35mm MOS sensor found in the VariCam 35 and as a result achieves the same imagery, wide dynamic range, colour gamut and dual native ISO settings as the VariCam 35.

In addition, the VariCam LT comes with an EF mount as standard which offers a wide array of lens choice – however, this can be removed by the end-user and replaced with an optional PL mount for cine lenses. There is also the option for the end-user to remove the infrared filter with a clear glass filter for night shooting, and alongside the dual-native ISO settings and the wide dynamic range provides a revolutionary feature for the natural history world. The VariCam LT has the ability to shoot at up to 60fps in 4K using the full sensor, and 240fps at 2K by cropping into the sensor in order to achieve a faster scanning speed.

We will also be displaying the AG-DVX200, the world’s first 4/3-type large format, 4K/60p camcorder to feature an integrated zoom lens. The AG-DVX200 includes its V-Log L function, which is equivalent to the V-Log curve provided on the VariCam series and supports 12 stops of dynamic range, making it a suitable option for HDR production. Stunning imagery can be captured thanks to its LEICA DICOMAR 4K 13x zoom lens and its 28mm wide-angle, whilst the camera also features a variable frame rate capability at Full-HD from 2-120fps.