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Panasonic AJ-HDC27F 720p Variable Frame-Rate Camera/Recorder

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• Panasonic AJ-HDC27F 720p Variable Frame-Rate Camera/Recorder Home Page
• Panasonic AJ-HDC27F Features and Fuctions
• Panasonic AJ-HDC27F Variable Frame Rates
• Panasonic AJ-HDC27F Specifications
• Awards and Real-World Applications
• Panasonic AJ-HD150 DVCPRO HD Studio VTR

The Panasonic AJ-HDC27F is a much more advanced camera than its award-winning predecessor, the AJ-HDC27V, featuring a host of user modes that provide unparalleled flexibility for shooting styles and "looks".

1. The AJ-HDC27F has fully incremental variable frame rates from 4 to 60 fps, in 1-fps steps. (The AJ-HDC27V offered incremental variable frame rates from 4 to 33 fps, then 26, 40 and 60 fps).

2. The AJ-HDC27F has incremental variable angle shutter control from 3º to 350º. (The AJ-HDC27V offered a 72º to 360º range).

3. The AJ-HDC27F has three powerful camera modes:
   1. The 296M (Technically "Correct" Video look) -- This is the standard for 720p HD. It will work well for studio and "video" work.
   2. The "Video Rec" mode -- Provides very powerful control over gamma, kneepoint, highlight handling, etc. This is the best all-around mode, it can be set to provide a Film-style look for video productions. Video Rec mode combined with the EC-3 paint pox will cover almost any shooting style.
   3. The "Film Rec" Mode -- Designed to create a look that matches the characteristics of the film/film printer for a film out. Film Rec has a very low contrast look, actually looks washed out on a monitor, BUT when used for a film out matches the gamma law of the print film and assures a wonderful and natural film print.

4. The AJ-HDC27F can change frame rate on the "fly" - can be used for special effects, etc.

5. Numerous menu customization options: Shutter angle can be displayed in degrees, or percentage, or 1/xxx speed, numerous VF display options for safe area, etc.

6. Up to 8 setup data files can be stored on an SD Memory Card, 4 for Film Rec and 4 for Video Rec.

7. Time Lapse capability.

The HD Story

The freedom to realize your vision.
As technology evolves, Panasonic continues to bridge the gap between the artist and their vision through breathtaking advances in high-definition digital imaging. By empowering storytellers with a dazzling array of production-oriented technology, at significant economies, an exciting new world of creative possibilities is emerging on the multi-media horizon.

Since the introduction of their DVCPRO family of digital products, Panasonic has placed over 150,000 key components in the world's news, production and post production communities. Already acknowledged as one of the most reliable and economical video systems, DVCPRO HD is now building on this cachet with our HD Cinema cameras and related digital VTRs.

Whether episodic television, independent films, music videos, DVD, Internet or new media projects, Panasonic is ushering in a new era of high definition, digital production, finishing and distribution. By bringing together the worlds of cinematography, digital recording and computer augmented post production, Panasonic has defined itself as the premier name for technology that fuels artistic freedom worldwide.

Expanding the boundaries of digital cinematography.
The AJ-HDC27F is the first variable frame-rate camera designed to inspire and empower cinematographers, directors and digital artists with exciting new creative options. From infusing documentaries with a lush, cinematic quality to creating stunning new visual effects for music videos, the AJ-HDC27F gives unprecedented freedom for storytellers to realize their vision.

Open systems. Open minds.
An important component of the AJ-HDC27F is its compatibility with other international formats. Not only is it backwards compatible to Panasonic's own DVCPRO 25/50/50P and DV formats, but 1080i and 720p images can also be converted to 1080p/24 -- a universal master from which 25-fps PAL programming and multiple other TV formats* are easily derived.

* Panasonic equipment complies with ITU recommendations for HD production and international program exchange.

The Varicam

The AJ-HDC27F Varicam gives artists the power to capture images with the same expressive characteristics as film, and with intuitive operation that instantly feels comfortable.

Variable Frame Rate
The Panasonic Varicam is the world's first video camera able to simulate the "undercranking" and "overcranking" technique of film cameras to slow down or speed up images. By varying the frame rate from 4 to 60 fps and adjusting the shutter speed from 0.8% to 97.2% of the frame rate, you can create a wide range of cinematic effects. And since the VTR section records at a constant 60 fps, you can edit offline with a conventional DVCPRO HD VTR. This lets you build a powerful 24p production system without a huge investment in equipment.

Film Gamma Selectable
The extremely wide reproductive range of film is the key to its lush expression. Panasonic's new gamma curves -- developed specifically to allow a CCD camera to produce the tonal qualities of film -- now bring film's natural shading and rich coloration to the video camera. The Varicam also lets you switch between video and film gamma modes. Film modes include "Cine Gamma" for film using ARRI laser recorder and "Tele Gamma" for monitor viewing and CRT base film recorders. Select the mode that suits your production. The ISO640-equivalent sensitivity -- which surpasses even film cameras -- combines with the Varicam's brightness and superior picture quality to produce an essentially "grainless, high-sensitivity film" effect.

Film User Menu
The AJ-HDC27F Varicam is like a film camera not only in functions and performance, but in operation as well. The settings you need on the set are conveniently grouped in a single-page menu. Use this menu to select or adjust gamma, scan reverse ON/OFF, hardness/softness, shadow gradation, and latitude. Just as with a film camera, you can also select tungsten or daylight type lighting.

Scan Reverse
Peripherals, beginning with lenses, are an essential part of the artist's creative toolbox. Adding the optional lens adapter configures the Varicam for an Ultra Prime film lens.

The Varicam is also equipped with the industry's first scan reverse circuit, which cancels image reversal when the adapter is in use. This function, which is easily set from the menu, also accommodates other film camera peripherals such as a slide base and matte boxes.

Features and Fuctions


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