Danita Delimont

New 5D Mark II Firmware Upgrade

Download It Here

Firmware 2.1.1 provides the following fixes and improvements:

- Fixes a phenomenon where shooting stops after capturing one image when in continuous shooting or the Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB) continuous shooting setting.

- Corrects misspellings in the menu screens displayed in Dutch language.

Canon EOS C300 & C300 PL

Canon C300

Canon just decided to go head to head with RED with it’s forthcoming EOS C300 DSLR/Camcorder. This indeed looks to be promising.

Read the offical Canon press release below for details and specs:

HOLLYWOOD, California, November 3, 2011/TOKYO, November 4, 2011 – Canon Inc. and Canon U.S.A., Inc. today raised the curtain on an all-new interchangeable-lens digital cinema camera that combines exceptional imaging performance with outstanding mobility and expandability to meet the demanding production needs of today’s motion picture industry. The camera, which features a newly developed Super 35 mm-equivalent approximately 8.29-megapixel CMOS sensor, will be available in two models: the EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera*, equipped with an EF lens mount for compatibility with Canon’s current diverse lineup of interchangeable EF lenses for EOS single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras and new EF Cinema Lens lineup; and the EOS C300 PL Digital Cinema Camera*, with a PL lens mount for use with industry-standard PL lenses.

The introduction of the EOS C300/C300 PL coincides with the launch of the Cinema EOS System, marking Canon’s full-fledged entry into the digital high-resolution production industry. The new professional digital cinematography system spans the lens, digital cinema camera and digital SLR camera product categories.

Star-Studded Supporting Cast
Equipped with an EF lens mount, the EOS C300 is supported by an all-star cast of high-performance EF lenses, not only the wide array of interchangeable EF lenses for EOS SLR cameras that have earned the trust and respect of photographers around the world, but also the EF cinema lenses in the newly announced Cinema EOS System. When outfitted with a Canon EF lens, the C300′s peripheral illumination correction automatically corrects for vignetting in accordance with each lens’s optical characteristics, and enables iris control from the camera. Canon EF lenses also enable the recording of such metadata as the name of the lens used, aperture setting and shutter speed.

Show-Stopping High-Resolution Full-HD Performance
The Canon EOS C300/C300 PL’s newly developed Super 35 mm-equivalent CMOS sensor incorporates approximately 8.29 million effective pixels and has a pixel size that is larger than that for conventional professional camcorders, enabling greater light-gathering capabilities for enhanced sensitivity and reduced noise. The sensor reads Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) video signals for each of the three RGB primary colors, decreasing the incidence of moiré while realizing high resolution with 1,000 horizontal TV lines.

Supported by a heightened signal read-out speed, the CMOS sensor reduces rolling shutter skews, a phenomenon prevalent with CMOS sensors in which fast-moving subjects may appear diagonally distorted. Additionally, the powerful combination of the sensor with Canon’s high-performance DIGIC DV III image processor facilitates high-precision gamma processing and smooth gradation expression.

In addition to MPEG-2 Full HD (MPEG2 422@HL compliant) compression, the EOS C300/C300 PL employs 4:2:2 color sampling for high-resolution performance that minimizes the appearance of “jaggies” at chroma edges. Additionally, with a maximum recording rate of 50 Mbps, the camera supports the recording of high-quality video.

The camera’s video and audio recording file format adopts the industry-standard MXF (Material eXchange Format), an open source file format ideally suited for non-linear editing systems. Recording to versatile, readily available CF cards, the EOS C300/C300 PL realizes high cost-performance and, equipped with two CF card slots, makes possible the simultaneous recording of video data to two CF cards.

Ready for Action

With a compact body design measuring 5.2 (w) x 7.0 (h) x 6.7 (d) inches, the Canon EOS C300/C300 PL delivers exceptional maneuverability, enabling shooting from vantage points all but inaccessible to large cinema cameras, such as close to the ground for high-impact low-angle shots, and alongside walls. In accordance with on-location shooting needs, the camera can be outfitted with a handle, grip, thumb rest and monitor unit, and offers an array of industry-standard terminals, including HD/SD-SDI video output for the external recording of high-quality video content. When using a WFT-E6B wireless file transmitter for EOS digital SLR cameras (sold separately), the EOS C300/C300 PL can be controlled remotely by means of such common devices as smartphones or tablet PCs.

The camera is equipped with four start/stop buttons positioned at various locations to satisfy any preferred camera-holding style, and can be outfitted with a variety of third-party accessories, including matte boxes, follow focuses and external video and audio recorders. The unit also achieves seamless integration with third-party editing systems and provides added peace of mind through its dust-proof, drip-proof construction and built-in cooling system.

The new camera allows users to adjust image quality to match that of professional camcorders and EOS-series digital SLR cameras, and offers Canon Log Gamma, enabling flat image quality with subdued contrast and sharpness for maximum freedom in post-production editing and processing. In addition to frame rates of 59.41i, 50.00i, 29.97P, 25.00P and 23.98P, the EOS C300/C300 PL features a 24.00p mode, matching the 24 frame-per-second frame rate of film cameras for high compatibility with common film-production workflows.

Other features include fast-motion shooting, achieved by capturing fewer frames per second to create action up to 60x normal speed, and slow-motion down to 1/2.5xii made possible by capturing more frames per second. Frame rates between 1 and 60 frames per second (fps)iii can be adjusted in increments of 1 fps. Additionally, a selection of Custom Pictures lets users freely adjust image quality for greater control over how content looks.

Pricing and availability

The Canon EOS C300 (EF mount) digital cinema camera is scheduled to be available in late January 2012 for an estimated list price of $20,000. The Canon EOS C300 PL (PL mount) digital cinema camera is scheduled to be available in late March 2012 for an estimated list price of $20,000.

Canon Announces 1D-X

Canon announced it’s latest and greatest DSLR last week and the video specs are something to behold. It seems like they listened to filmmakers gripes and made some vast improvements on the video capturing side of things with this model.

Find the details below…

Canon EOS 1D-X

Enhanced EOS HD Video – New Compressions, Longer Recording

Centered around an all-new full-frame CMOS sensor with larger pixels than those found on the EOS 5D Mark II image sensor, the EOS-1D X utilizes new HD video formats to simplify and speed up post-production work. The two new compression formats offered on the EOS-1D X include intraframe (ALL-i ) compression for an editing-friendly format and interframe (IPB) compression for superior data compression, giving professionals the options they need for their ideal workflow. Answering the requests of cinematographers and filmmakers, the EOS-1D X includes two methods of SMPTE-compliant timecode embedding, Rec Run and Free Run, allowing multiple cameras or separate sound recording to be synced together in post production.

Canon’s all new full-frame CMOS sensor ensures that video footage captured on the EOS-1D X will exhibit less moiré than any previous Canon model, resulting in a significant improvement in HD video quality. A desired feature for many documentary filmmakers using Canon DSLRs was to enable recording beyond the four gigabyte (GB) file capacity and the EOS-1D X is the answer. The new camera features automatic splitting of movie files when a single file exceeds 4GB. The new file splitting function allows for continuous video recording up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds across multiple 4GB files; no frames are dropped and the multiple files can be seamlessly connected in post production, providing filmmakers the recording time they want in the same convenient DSLR form factor. The camera records Full HD at 1920 x 1080 in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); and 720p HD or SD video recording at either 50p or 60p (59.94). SD video can be recorded in either NTSC or PAL standards.

The Canon EOS-1D X also includes manual audio level control, adjustable both before and during movie recording, an automatic setting, or it can be turned off entirely. A wind filter is also included. Sound can be recorded either through the internal monaural microphone or via an optional external microphone through the stereo mic input.

Viewing Our Footage Collection w/ IE8 or IE9

It has been brought to our attention that there are some compatibility issues when attempting to view videos on our site in Internet Explorer 8 and 9. There is a simple solution to this problem and we thought it would be be a good idea to post a step by step guide on how to work around it.

If you try to view a video in on the preview page and all you get is a black screen on the video player then you will need to change your “Compatibility Settings” in the Compatibility Menu.

First, you will need to make sure the “Command Bar” is activated, which houses several buttons such as the home page icon, rss feed icon, printer icon and the page, safety and tools drop down menus. Then you will click the Page drop down menu and select “Compatibility View Settings.” Once the pop up window opens, simply switch your settings to view all websites in “Compatibility Mode” and you’ll be all set.

There are two different locations for this menu depending on if you are using Internet Explorer 8 or Internet Explorer 9, and you very well may have them arranged differently, but the menu bar will look the same.

Use the screenshots below to help guide you to the Page drop down menu:

Internet Explorer 8

Internet Explorer 9

We hope this helps! As with anything footage related, if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to shoot us an email at: footage@danitadelimont.com

Happy viewing!

Firmware Update for 5D Mark II

Firmware 2.0.9 for 5D Mark II
Firmware Version 2.0.9 incorporates the following improvements and fixes.

1. Improves writing/reading speeds when using UDMA 7-compatible CF cards.

2. Fixes a phenomenon where the IS function will not work when custom function C.Fn III-2 is set to [5: IS start] and the lens attached does not have an AF stop button. This is because custom function C.Fn III-2 allows users to assign IS start to the AF stop button on the lens

3. Corrects misspellings in the menu screens displayed in Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, and Thai languages.

Download Here
via: Canon Rumors

New Accessories!

As with everything in the ever-expanding technology market, new gadgets are constantly coming out to make your shoot experience easier, more fun and more productive.  Here are a few of the newest accessories for your DSLR that I’ve gathered browsing the web since CES in Vegas last month.

Electronic Follow Focus

More info: Jag35.com

Sony CML V-55 LCD Monitor

More Info: Digital Newsroom

iLED ONE

iLED ONE from ikan on Vimeo.

“ikan’s iLED ONE comes complete with a tungsten 60 degree flood bulb, shoe mount and an 
in-line power switch. Power supply is sold separately to give you the choice on how to power your light! 

The preferred power supply choice is the AC107, equipped with the BCA107 belt clip for your choice of Sony L or BP-U, Canon 900 or Panasonic D54 style batteries.  The perfect solution for ‘on the go’ lighting!”

More Info: Ikan.com

LCDVF for HDSLR Cameras

More Info: LCDVF.com

Red Scarlet Preview

DSLR News Shooter got their hands on the Red Scarlet at CES last month and put together a nice little video preview for you to salivate over. The release date still hasn’t been announced, but at least it seems the rumors that this camera was dead in the water are unfounded. It seems like this camera will deliver the goods, whenever the delivery date may be.

We’ll be sure to keep you posted on all the latest news and updates.

Canon T3i/600D Announced

For the full list of features and an in depth preview head over to DP Review.

From the press release:

Canon t3i

London, UK, 7th February 2011 – Canon today announces the launch of the EOS 600D – a compact, lightweight Digital SLR (DSLR) that makes capturing exciting, fun and creative images easier than ever. The perfect choice for aspiring photographers looking for a combination of outstanding image quality and ease-of-use, the EOS 600D sits at the top of Canon’s entry-level EOS line-up, above the existing EOS 550D and the new EOS 1100D.

Capturing stunning images and Full HD video has never been easier, thanks to a range of automatic shooting modes that beginners can use to instantly express their creativity. A Feature Guide has been added to the user interface to help you learn about the camera as you use it, helping to develop your photography skills. With an unrivalled range of EF lenses, Speedlites and other accessories to enhance your shooting, the EOS system holds the key to the perfect shot – wherever your journey takes you, and whatever the scene before you.

EOS 600D – key features:

-18-megapixel CMOS sensor

-Scene Intelligent Auto mode

-Full-HD EOS Movie

-On-screen Feature Guide

-3.7fps continuous shooting

-Wide-area 9-point AF

-1,040k-dot vari-angle 7.7cm (3.0”) screen

-Basic+ and Creative Filters

-Built-in wireless flash control

Canon Filmmakers Live w/ Philip Bloom coming to Seattle

© PhilipBloom.net

Philip Bloom is considered to be one of the most sought after minds in DSLR cinematography. He has worked on numerous short films, documentaries and more his recent work includes films for Discovery HD, Five, Living and Sky One to name a few. He also runs a very comprehensive blog and forum on his website with the latest techniques, reviews and updates of various hardware, software and accessories that is a must have on any videographer’s blogroll. Here is a snippet from his bio:

I consider myself as one of the new breed of cinematographers. Over the past 3 years I have embraced the 35mm film adaptor market, shooting on HD video but making it look close to 35mm film. I also have recently embraced the video DSLR cameras, in particular the Canon 5d Mk2 and the Canon 7d. Please visit my DSLR films section to see just how beautiful they look. I have used these DSLRs on all sorts of projects including recently being the DSLR second unit DP on the new movie from Lucasfilm.

Philip will be joining the “Canon Filmmakers Live” US Tour this spring and the will be making a stop in the Seattle area at the King Cat Theater on Thursday, March 31st. The workshop goes from 10am-5pm and entry is $150.

For all the details and to order tickets visit the website:

http://canonfilmmakerslive.com/2001/03/31/king-cat-theatre/

http://philipbloom.net

Danita’s Musings on Footage Topics

I’ve been contemplating the whole “footage subjects” idea now for some time. I’ve talked with clients to see what they have on the horizon (if anything) and in general here are my thoughts on the types of things you should keep in mind for footage subjects.

First of all, think story ideas when they lend themselves to that.  Look at a topic and think “single” clip or “story idea.”  I’ve talked at length to textbook researchers and editors and they tell me that in the near future they’ll be incorporating footage links along with stills of the same subject.  Therefore, try to “double shoot” so you have both a clip as well as a still of a similar subject.  The idea is that the student will see a still shot in their electronic textbook, and then click on the footage link and see it in motion.  Teachers will also use this kind of technique when teaching in classrooms.  If any of you have kids in schools with Smart Boards, you’ll know what I mean.  The new schools have digital projectors and are hooked up to the internet so they often project the textbook (from password protected websites) while teaching and the video aspect will (hopefully) catch the attention of the students more than a still image will.

With that said, think in terms of what kind of motion will show and teach our students about the natural world, world cultures, geography, math, etc.  Think about watching a grasshopper hop verses looking at a still image (Biology).  Think about a construction crane lifting and moving a very heavy object, or an escalator moving or a baggage conveyor belt moving (levers/pulleys/gears–Math books).  Think about traditional ritual, customs and ceremonies, dancers, rites of passage, (World Geography and/or Cultural Anthropology).  Try not to make your clips too long, so you are actually self-editing, but if you see a whole story that takes a few minutes, shoot it.  Clients can edit or cut the clips to their own needed length.

You can come up with a million ideas really.  If you have any kids’ textbooks close at hand, thumb through them and you’ll see the kind of content they like.  It’s really not any different than all the other subjects you’ve been shooting in stills.  Just add the motion aspect to it, given the opportunity.

Simple subjects too…a colored leaf falling to the ground in the Autumn, slowly floating down to the pile of leaves on the ground….  a babbling brook flowing over a rocky stream….palm trees blowing, weather in any form, waves crashing on a beach…

In general, with editorial, you won’t need model releases, but if you have someone up close and personal doing something, even smiling or blowing a kiss to someone or the camera, you should try to get releases.  Think of someone licking their lips, smooching the air, high fiving someone, tossing a penny, taking a walk,

maybe a couple from the back holding hands as they walk somewhere….or kids doing the same.  The subjects are endless.  Also when traveling in Europe look for French people greeting each other with kisses to each cheek or Italians talking with their hands (foreign language textbooks).  Regarding travel footage, just shoot the destination in a way that would appeal to travel clients trying to seduce someone to their country or culture.  More and more travel clients are moving towards on-line website marketing and/or e-blasts with links in them.  Motion is used more and more with travel destination marketing.  Just short clips are fine–10-30 seconds on a subject that you’re shooting stills of, adds another dimension to your offerings.

I will say too that many agency colleagues have told us that they’re not selling much footage “yet” which is the key word.  If we position ourselves with content, then we can have it available as more and more clients move into those kinds of needs.  Our plan is to distribute through our sub-agents in other world markets as well, so we can get as much mileage as we can on the footage.  It’s a lot of work for everyone so we need to get it as many places as we can and be in a position for sales when people really start looking.  This is definitely a long term process. Remember too, that if you have elements in your photos or footage that represent a time and place, they will date much faster.  Nature is pretty much timeless, but people with certain hair or clothes styles or cars on the street will not last as long.  Try to avoid logos on clothing too because you can’t Photoshop them out of video very easily.

Ok, enough of my musings.  I’m sure I’ll have more to say on this as 2011 evolves.  I just wanted to give you my take on what may be coming up down the road so you can keep these thoughts in mind as you move about the world in 2011.

Footage Topics for Photographers to Consider

At a recent program on Stock Footage, there was a panel from several stock agencies, each with their own presentation showing how their clients were using motion clips.  The following is a listing of topics that I jotted down while the clips whizzed by.  The variety of subjects here exemplifies just how wide open the subject matter is: