(Park Ridge, New Jersey--August 27, 2009) To capture the “gun-and-run”-style of a 3-D motion picture shot on location, instead of primarily against a green or blue screen backdrop, director of photography Glen MacPherson ASC and digital imaging technician Nick Theodorakis chose Sony’s F23 camera for its mobility and robustness to produce the action horror feature “Final Destination 4,” which opens nationwide August 28.
“We proved that it’s possible to shoot a 3-D picture like a real movie,” said Theodorakis. “We shot 80 percent of ‘Final Destination 4’ on practical locations, so it was essential to have a light-weight, durable camera that could survive rugged treatment.”
MacPherson worked with Vince Pace, the developer of the proprietary PACE/Cameron Fusion System and the “Final Destination 4” production team to select the right camera for this project.
“Glenn’s clear intention was to take advantage of the F23’s superior latitude on this project. Our challenge was to integrate a camera for 3-D, which would be small enough not to compromise the project creatively,” said Pace. “We worked around the clock to design a system that was structurally sound for rugged, in-the-field use and still light enough to work on a steadicam.”
According to MacPherson, the F23’s 2/3 inch sensor results in enhanced depth of field, making it ideal for producing 3-D imagery.
It takes a crew of five to maneuver and operate the PACE/Cameron Fusion System, which consists of two cameras mounted on computerized chassis with a half silvered mirror. The camera first shoots through the mirror, while the second shoots the reflected image. This configuration was used for the majority of the production, while ‘Side By Side’ rigs, configured with two Sony F950 cameras, were utilized for high-speed racing sequences, as well as in the underwater scenes.”
According to MacPherson, of the cameras tested for the project, the F23 had the best dynamic range and the quietest signal noise, essential for the daytime exterior scenes predominant in the feature.
“The story doesn’t evolve in dark, spooky places; it takes place in swimming pools, hair salons and on race tracks,” MacPherson said. “The F23 handled the highlights beautifully.”
The “Final Destination 4” production crew put the system through its paces, dropping it from descender rigs, mounting it on speeding cars and placing it underwater. Despite the rough handling, according MacPherson, the cameras and system are still in tip-top shape and will be used again in several upcoming productions, including a scheduled Jonas Brother’s concert movie.
In “Final Destination 4,” a sequel in the popular series directed by David Ellis, death once again sets out to collect those who evaded their end—this time in a deadly race-car crash, thanks to the forewarning of a teen’s premonition.
###
|
| | | |
 Related News:
 Related Article:
 The 3D Zone: Its Past & Its Future
The world expert in the history of 3D imaging looks at its past to see into its future. Along the way, he looks at the role of comics in the evolution of 3D storytelling, the importance of anaglyph even today, and why 3D is going to stick around this time.
Read Article Subscribe
more articles » | | | | |
|
