Not all production is large Hollywood features or network broadcast television series. In fact, these areas represent only a small fraction of the professional production industry. Smaller crews and location production on tight schedules, with limited resources in production and post, are far more the norm than the exception. Yet the physical design and workflow of most 3D technology has not been built for these types of productions. Until now, there have not been professional 3D tools designed for “the rest of us.”

The introduction of Panasonic’s integrated 3D camera, the AG-3DA1, not only represents an impressive feat of technology, but also opens up an entire new category of 3D acquisition tools, which we at Abel refer to as “Independent 3D.”

Technically Independent on Set

Until now, 3D production meant large beamsplitter or side-by-side dual camera rigs. Support equipment was needed to sync the two cameras together, as well as control systems to lock adjustments of the two lenses. These rigs are large, heavy, expensive and require a great deal of skill and time to use on set.

The Panasonic 3DA1 is physically quite small with sophisticated stereo technology integrated directly into the design of the camera. There are user aids built into its interface to help adjust 3D parameters. Recording is available both in-camera on inexpensive card media or available as a high quality output to outboard recorders such as the nanoFlash-3D or the Cinedeck Extreme. Field monitors for judging the 3D images on set are available from several manufacturers. With a modest investment in additional equipment, the production of 3D can now occur with little more expense or complication than traditional 2D shooting.

Independent Exhibition and Distribution

Until recently, 3D exhibition was limited to specially equipped venues. While 3D theatrical exhibition has expanded significantly with digital projection, the most rapid advance has actually come in the consumer exhibition arena.  Several manufacturers now offer 3D-capable consumer flat screen TVs. 3D-capable Blu-Ray players are now available and, with a free software download, millions of currently installed Sony Playstation 3 gaming devices will also become 3D-capable Blu-Ray players. Many laptop computers and standalone computer displays are available with 3D-capable screens. Streaming services such as YouTube now support 3D media. This means there are now a multitude of distribution options for independent 3D content producers.

Production Value for Independent Content Providers

The expansion of commercially viable options for distributing and exhibiting 3D content, along with the advances in easier to use, low cost of entry production gear, means that 3D production can function independently of traditional workflows. This is a great advancement for the many “closed loop” content providers that make up so much of the professional production world. Now, 3D can bring added production value to trade show presentations, corporate videos, point-of-purchase displays, gallery presentations, value-added content delivered with product or on websites, technical demonstrations, educational content, wedding/event videography, recreational video productions and more.

To Abel, “Independent 3D” means 3D production that is unencumbered by high production costs, limited distribution channels or creative restrictions.