Panavision has added to its rental inventory the Element Technica Quasar 3D Rig fitted with Panavision Genesis cameras and Primo prime lenses. The modular rig was reviewed in a mini workshop Q& A presented by the the Society of Camera Operators (SOC) and held at The Motion Picture & Television Fund Country Home in Woodland Hills. Sharon Walker from Panavision and Chris Burket from Element Technica, explained the features of the stereoscopic rig and answered questions from the attending cinematographers and camera operators about the many technical and aesthetics details of acquiring 3D footage using the Quasar 3D rig. Other smaller 3D rig was presented, the Neutron, designed for 1/3 or 2/3 inches cameras such as Iconix or SI2K-mini.
Attending SOC members and guests
Panavision's Director of Service & Technical Standards,
Sharon Walker shared details about the Quasar/Panavision rig
Among other features explained is that the Quasar is a 3D tool that has been designed to be as simple to use as most modern 2D camera systems, making it possible for any filmmaker to create 3D content using their regular 2D crew and the Quasar is designed to accommodate full-size digital cinema cameras like the Sony F23 and F35, RED ONE, Panavision Genesis as well as full-body and box-type digital broadcast cameras like the Sony F950 and 1500, Grass Valley LDK cameras and others. The Quasar is a platform for matching zoom or prime lenses to accommodate any shooting style or format.
The Quasar 3D rig showing the two Genesis
cameras, stereo assist (zoom, focus, intrerocular
and convergence) and a Transvideo 3D
monitor on a Vinten head
monitor on a Vinten head
Beamsplitter for 15mm to 250mm lenses
The Quasar’s modularity allows it to be configured as either a beamsplitter system for work with lenses from 15mm to 250mm or alternately set up as a converging side by-side system for use at with focal lengths of up to 2200mm or when close focus is not an issue. For the first time the precision and refinement of a beamsplitter system is offered in a side-by-side rig utilizing the same electro-mechanical components and same user interface.
Both beamsplitter and parallel configured camera platforms to accommodate cameras from the small sensor Iconix or S1-2K to fullsized digital imagers like the Genesis and Sony F35. These systems represent the first of a new generation of 3D imaging tools with fully embedded control electronics. Most systems will accommodate zoom lenses and offer synchronous control of focus, iris and zoom with the embedded electronics. The beamsplitter and parallel systems share the same basic mechanism and electronics for Intraocular and Convergence as well as the same user interface.
The Quasar 3D rig seen here shooting “Larger Than Life in 3D,”
a live concert featuring Dave Matthews Band.
Chris Burket, Technical Rep from Elements Technica explains
the Neutron 3D Rig for 1/3 or 2/3 inches cameras such
as Iconix or SI2K-mini. Here with Sony cameras
Quasar Rig Specifications: Camera and lens agnostic, designed for full body digital imagers: Genesis, Sony F23/35 & 1500 & RED. Beam Splitter: Compatible with prime lenses and small zoom lenses.
Focal length range (S35 format) 15mm to 250mm. Side-by-side: Compatible with all primes and most ENG/Cine zooms. Focal length tested to 2200mm (S35 equivalent). Rig weight without cameras: 36.6lbs. [16.6 kilos]
Isolated mirror box provides exceptional rigidity and precise alignment. Integrated motors and electronics for Inter Ocular and Convergence control Wired/wireless remote hand unit for Inter Ocular and Convergence control.
Click here for more technical and rental information about the Quasar3D/Panavision Rig.
Click here for more technical and rental information about the Quasar3D/Panavision Rig.
About the Society of Camera Operators
The principal purpose of the SOC is to recognize and nurture excellence in the field of camera operation and, secondarily, in the allied camera crafts, and to encourage development of both technology and production methods which will help our members achieve that excellence.The Society sponsors an annual Lifetime Achievement Awards banquet honoring outstanding camera personages and their accomplishments in, and contributions to, the cinematic media. Also given are Technical Achievement Awards which are presented to the Corporate Community for technological advancements, honoring innovations benefiting the art and craft of camera operating.
Because the members of the SOC make their living with their eyesight, they take pride in supporting the Vision Center at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles with annual donations which helps underwrite contact lenses for infants with serious sight problems.
Active Membership in the Society is open to Camera Operators. Associate Membership is open to Directors of Photography, Camera Assistants and Still Photographers. Corporate Affiliate Membership is extended to participating corporations. Membership is open to qualified persons of any nationality.
Click here for more information about the SOC
by George Leon
