Panasonic’s new 3DA1 integrated 3D camcorder opens up 3D acquisition to all levels of the professional market. In this article, we explain what AbelCine sees as the primary applications for this breakthrough camera.

A Player on Large 3D Productions

The small physical size of the 3DA1 allows it to be used on large productions for specific applications:

• remote camera
• Steadicam
• crane
• underwater housing
• timelapse rig
• motion control rigs
• crash cam

In fact, almost anywhere a larger beamsplitter or two-camera side-by-side rig would prove difficult to use, the 3DA1 can be applied. The camera can also be useful as B-camera alongside larger 3D camera systems.

Creating Affordable and Straightforward 3D Broadcast Content

There is a significant mandate for original 3D content for broadcast. Traditional 3D systems can increase production budgets and schedules considerably because of the increased equipment rentals, additional crew requirements and time-consuming setup of the rigs.

With real world budget constraints in mind, the 3DA1 can be appropriate for many forms of live, near-live and general production work. Informational programs such as nature and magazine style shows, sports and documentaries can work with the 3DA1 camcorder and 3D field monitors with little difference in traditional production and post workflows. With proper training, these 3D tools can be used similarly to traditional 2D devices.

The Ideal Solution for Alternative Media Outlets

Almost all content that is a client-based, closed-loop production can be enhanced with 3D. It’s a type of production that we at Abel refer to as “Independent 3D.” The 3DA1 can add production value for little additional cost to these types of projects:

• BluRay distribution
• web based content *
• live event multimedia
• industrials for special venues
• corporate videos (presented on 3D monitors or digital projection)
• tradeshow and seminar presentations
• point-of-purchase displays
• gallery presentations
• value-added content delivered with product or on websites
• technical demonstrations
• education
• wedding and event videography
• recreational video production (keepsakes from sports camps, rafting trip, etc.)

* Increasingly, 3D LCD panels are being offered for laptop and desktop computers that allow passive or active polarized 3D viewing. YouTube and other video streaming sites have 3D channels for polarized and anaglyph (red/blue) content. Be sure to check out these links: YouTube 3D Announcement, YouTube 3D Gallery, Vimeo Stereo 3D Channel (featuring tutorials) and the Vimeo Stereoscopic 3D Channel, showcasing the best 3D content on Vimeo.

Where 3DA1 Ultimately Shines

The 3DA1 excels wherever a small form factor camera is necessary. It is one of the few systems that can be effectively used handheld or in a “run & gun” configuration. The lens pairs’ fixed inter-axial (IA) distance means that the optimum subject distance is eight feet and beyond. This means that the 3DA1 may not be appropriate for shooting within the confines of a car, but is ideal for most sports. Intimate drama may not be best suited to the 3DA1, but most documentary work will be.

Importantly, the 3DA1 can be used where other 3D camera systems simply cannot, due either to size or complexity or both. Side-by-side and beamsplitter rigs are generally quite large and heavy, making Steadicam, crane, underwater housing and car rigs difficult or impractical. The 3DA1 excels in these situations, however.

For fast-paced productions, or 3D productions on a 2D budget, the nimble and integrated nature of Panasonic’s 3DA1 becomes an exciting new creative option.