Investing into a camera system is one helluva a commitment. Yes, you can rent, but what should you rent and why? It can be challenging to keep up as manufacturers continue to release new camera models each year. Let alone for one to stay abreast of all the new features and how one could use these technological advancements on their upcoming shoots.
This is why the Nashville Filmmakers Guild decided to debate the pluses and minuses of several leading camera systems for their 2nd Annual NFG Great Debate. Monday night starting at 7pm Central time, professional shooters and cinematographers, who know these systems inside and out, will lay it all out for their camera of choice to win. Moderator Nathan Thompson says. “Cameras have come so far, I really don’t think there are any bad cameras out there. Luckily for us, it’s more about finding the camera that’s right for you, right for your project, and right for your budget.”
Which camera will win the great debate? Will it be Canon and it’s new C300 Mark II or Sony and it’s F55/F5? Watch online or come the Studio615 to see the six different debaters representing Red, Canon, Blackmagic, Arri, Panasonic, and Sony. As one of the debaters, I will say there are a lot of great cameras out in the world today. I could easily represent Sony or Panasonic, but for the sake of this debate, I know Blackmagic gear better than the rest. So I will take up arms and present my case on their behalf.
Nathan Thompson, who is moderating the debate, says “We have an interesting cast of characters representing each camera system, so it’s sure to be an entertaining night. It’s a laid back event, so there will be plenty of room to have fun with each other and throw some pokes and jabs around in good fun. We’ll also be live-streaming the event, so we’ll get interesting questions and feedback from the online audience as well. We’ll cover a lot of ground and have a good time doing it!”
How To See The Debate
So, how can you watch the Great Debate? If you are in the Nashville, TN area you can come on down to Studio 615 at 7pm to see our participants debate in person, or you can watch the Great Debate stream live to Youtube. Matt Barker and his company Blackhawk Cinema will provide the equipment and direct the action live to the Nashville Filmmakers Guild youtube page.
A little history here about the Nashville Filmmakers Guild and their debates. Last year the group took on the topic of Non-Linear Editors. Then they debated between Adobe, Avid, and FinalCut. Blackmagic’s DaVinci Resolve also had a small presence to round out the software. Just like last year, the debate will take place in Nashville at Studio615.
Remember, when it comes to camera selection on an upcoming project a camera’s features can make or break your day. Maybe the newest greatest camera is not right for your shoot. Just think about what moderator Nathan Thompson has to say, “The devil is really in the details when it comes to throwing down cash for a camera. The most particular details are what can make people love one camera and dislike another. Whether it’s ergonomics, color science, dynamic range, frame rates, neutral density, or even menu customization, every little point plays differently for different people. Understanding every plus and minus will help people learn what’s right for them. And beyond classifying any one camera as the “best”, I think finding what’s right for you is where it’s at.”
