Filmmaking Technologies
Why RED Cinema’s 8K Cameras are Truly Mindblowing
The world of cinema is quite vivid, filled to brim with numerous fields, technologies, and artists. Today, lets dissect 2 great and shiny toys which capture class leading visuals. These toys are cinema cameras. The reason they are being referred to as toys are simply because of the sheer excitement in the film world regarding these technological masterpieces.
RED 8K V Raptor VV and 8K V Raptor XL VV
RED, a trusted and reputed camera brand that has been the first choice of several fiilmmakers for years is back with another pathbreaking camera. And this time, it pulls no punches, just as its predecessors. We have the 8K Vista Vision sensor sporting namely RED 8K V-Raptor VV and RED 8K V-Raptor VV XL. Vista vision sensor is a modern large format version of the 35mm format and was developed by Paramount in 1954. The sensor is also referred to as full frame sensor in these modern days.
Lets talk about the V Raptor 8K VV
The smaller brother to its XL variant, this camera generated new opportunities for filmmakers. With reduced body size, weight, and equally great features, filmmakers no longer have to suffer through backache to capture amazing shots.
The camera follows the footsteps of its junior variant, the RED KOMODO which was a 6k super-35 which is slightly smaller than the full frame sensor. RED’s masterstroke here is to reduce weight and size, while using new technologies to enhance the users’ experience. The camera offers great I/O ports (For those who don’t know I/O means input and output ports) to offer great flexibility to filmmakers.
The sensor provides 7680 x 4320 pixels which is, probably, (Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro is 12k) among the highest resolution camera sensor available.
Diving Ahead with the FEATURES
Further, as we delve deeper into the camera’s features, it offers the highest 8k resolution from 120 fps to 150 fps, 7K up to 175 fps, 6k upto 200fps, 5k upto 240fps, 4k up to 300 fps, 3k up to 400 fps and 2k upto 600fps. The camera provides 17+ stops of dynamic range, which, is alright in line with the best cameras for the highest dynamic range. This 17+ stops of dynamic is super useful for color grading footage. You will never have to worry about losing pixels (also known as banding) or detail in shadows and get optimal cinema-grade color grading capabilities. The camera is also equipped with the best-in-class SDI ports for the monitor, viewfinder, mics, and other accessories. It also offers filmmakers and DOPs a 6k Super-35 option for extra flexibility and freedom to next-generation visual storytellers.
RED 8K V-Raptor XL VV
The V-Raptor XL is a bigger version of its small brother but with added features and a robust I/O system filled with several SDI ports to support accessories. While the body is bigger, the best RED technologies and reduced weight of the camera bring extra flexibility to the table and enhance the shooting experience. The camera weighs a little more and is noticeably bigger in size compared to its bigger brother, it is still quite shoulder-friendly for users and provides users with an excellent shooting experience.
WHAT’s NEW?
Internal ND
What is an ND filter? And why is it such an awesome feature? ND is an abbreviation for neutral density. This filter allows filmmakers to shoot at bigger apertures )f0.25, 1.8, 2.8 while controlling the amount of light entering the sensor. This feature allows filmmakers to enhance their creativity and push their abilities as a visual storytellers to the absolute maximum. With ¼, ⅓, and full-stop abilities of this ND system, filmmakers can easily achieve mind-blowing shots.
Wide Variety of I/O Systems
This feature allows for easy rigging and flexibility. Filmmakers can now attach several accessories to their cameras and produce excellent shots, without worrying about limitations. The robust SDI port systems truly enable filmmakers to improve their artistic abilities and improve their overall workflow. There’s more though. The camera also provides front-facing I/O on both sides of the camera. To top it all, the camera also provides dual voltage battery systems to allow filmmakers to extend shooting times. These batteries eliminate worries about the battery running out during shoots.
FILMMAKERS/ ACTORS USING THESE CAMERAS
Probably my favorite section. Why do you ask?
Zack Snyder
Zack Snyder is using this camera to film Rebel Moon parts 1 and 2. He is also the cinematographer of this film and is constantly shooting his film at a wide aperture. He is shooting almost all of Rebel Moon with wide-open apertures of 1.5. The variable ND of the V- Raptor XL allows him to expand his creative prowess to its absolute limit.
Jason Momoa
Jason Momoa is another passionate actor/ writer/ celebrity who loves to operate the fabulous 8K V-Raptor. Impressed by the previous 6K KOMODO, his interest peaked when RED cinema launched their new camera.
RED and a New Chapter of Cinema Cameras
How will RED change the scope of cinema with its 8K offerings? With this brand new launch, it is clear that innovation and the demands of filmmakers are the top priority at RED cinemas. RED is certainly excelling at creating new options and flagship cameras that diminish any obstacles faced by filmmakers or cinematographers. With no technological limitations, RED V Raptors ask all of us, filmmakers, the same question.
What are You Waiting for, Now That’s Nothing Stopping You?
Author: Anirudh G. Rao