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Possibly the most versatile HD camcorder in production, the Varicam is the first variable frame-rate DVCPRO HD camcorder available for the professional cinematographer. It offers a wide variety of frame rate capabilities: still-frame, step-frame, 24-fps, 30-fps and 60-fps. Such versatility combined with a cinema-quality 720p HD image lends the camcorder to high-end documentary projects and feature-filmmaking.

With a weight of only 15lbs (WITH battery & cassette) and approx 25% smaller than other broadcast camcorders, the Varicam is a superb in-the-field camera which makes light work of day-long handheld shoots yet still provides the quality and features of top-of-the-line broadcast equipment. It offers a high degree of light sensitivity (f11@ 2000 lux, equivalent of 1000ASA) and the image clarity possible at 60-fps enables the camera to both capture the candle-lit scene of a historical drama and the fast action of a championship basketball game.

While documentary filmmakers will appreciate the low-weight and extreme light-sensitivity of the camera, the cinematographer of a dramatic piece will be thankful for the three different gamma curves the camera offers. These, together with 12 different, distinct camera set-up memories, allow the operator to manipulate the image in the field to match shots or the look of certain film stocks, etc. The need for color correction in post will be dramatically decreased and time can be spent on the shot rather than the set up of the camera.

Lastly, the DVCPRO HD format enables the operator to shoot up to 46 minute loads on small, relatively inexpensive 1/4" cassettes thereby reducing budgets and allowing a concentration on content not format.

Camera comes standard with HD zoom lens, Sachtler tripod, AC power supply, and 3 Anton Bauer Hytron 100 batteries. Charger is provided at no charge for multiple day rentals.

Features

  • Variable frame rate from 4 fps to 60 fps
  • Records up to 46 minutes on DVCPRO HD cassettes
  • High light sensivity of 2000 lux at f12
  • Twelve camera set-ups can be loaded into the camera's memory; eight can be downloaded on to a memory stick.
  • Ability to achieve in-camera effects such as "motion-blur" and "warp-speed" by shooting low frame-rates without a shutter.
  • Interval time recording
  • Two HD-SDI outputs
  • Three separate gamma curves

Understanding DVCPro

DVCPro, by any name, will still be confusing. It doesn’t seem like this should be difficult to understand, right? I mean you use BetaSP tape in a BetaSP camera or deck and DigiBeta Tape in a DigiBeta camera or deck. Then what makes this format so confusing to so many of us?