Professional Motion Picture Equipment
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SMS Takes Delivery on Aaton's Latest Technology

As most of you know by now, the Aaton XTRprod is available from the rental department of SMS. SMS waited all summer for this camera in order to receive the most-up-to-date technology available. The color video assist burns timecode on to the monitors and is flicker-free at all camera speeds.

The AatonCode saves hours in post production resulting in the saving of money. For interview, sports, live events, wildlife, sit-coms or dramas, the XTRprod combines the efficiency and flexibility of a lightweight camera (13 lbs.) with all of the features required for studio production, in one integrated and elegant package.

Time and Money - two important concepts to filmmakers.

When shooting a feature film, AatonCode allows for greater speed on set, maximizing takes while minimizing time between them.

In a documentary environment, slateless shooting decreases set-up time, while adding to content value and flexibility. AatonCode provides automatic, on-the-fly audio sync during transfer or removes the production out of the transfer room as soon as possible. The built-in exposure meter is an added plus.

In post-production, the use of AatonCode and the information in Keylink's database reduces event-logging time for the editor's assistant.

On the set and during transfer and post, time is indeed money. Almost all of the time-saving examples mentioned above translate into a dollar amount savings down the line.

During a feature, commercial or documentary production, eliminating the need for the slate for sync purposes saves on raw stock and processing.

During interviews, Aaton code allows the DP and/or Director to turn the camera on and off at their discretion in order to save film, while rolling audio continuously for full coverage.

Because of the added efficiency during telecine, transfer costs can be reduced by as much as 20 - 25%, depending on the project and facility used. The AatonCode saves hours in post production resulting in the saving of money.

In terms of Creativity, the disappearance of the slate will allow the filmmaker to create a more intimate setting and to elicit a more natural reaction from the subject. Sometimes, the use of AatonCode can open up entirely new concepts or possibilities that could not be achieved in traditional slate situations.

In terms of Flexibility, in cases of documentary and live performance situations, AatonCode gives the filmmaker the freedom to roll at will and to operate completely independent of other cameras and sound recorders. This is extremely valuable in multi-camera concert situations, in which the operator can concentrate on the performance, rather than hunting for a slate or timecode reference.

AatonCode is completely compatible with audio recorders and other devices found on set running standard SMPTE timecode. In fact, all AatonCode capable cameras, as well as OriginCplus and GMT timecode generators, can communicate directly with devices delivering a standard SMPTE signal. (More on AatonCode next time)

The startled look on the faces of the DP's, operators and assistants who have seen our camera and been told that the camera was running says it all. When we say a quiet camera, we mean quiet. The Aaton XTRprod - Super 16 is definitely the wave of the future.

Improvements on the Aaton XTRprod:

Body

• improved on/off switch - more reliable, impossible to turn on (or off) by accident
• improved illuminated display - for easier viewing in low light situations
• new UL5 (ultra-luminous) viewfinder - brighter, diopter moved to eyepiece
• brighter interchangeable viewing screens
• improved, brighter Aatonite
• improved viewfinder tension adjust rings
• improved rigidity of 15mm rod receptacles of front housing
• 150 degree setting for shutter (for shooting 60Hz HMI @ 25 fps)
• steel inserts to improve strength of frame and motor holder
• better circuit assembly increases reliability and resistance to moisture

Accessories

• lightweight doors for 400' magazines
• introduction of GX 800' magazines
• - introduction of VR49 color video assist - improved color rendition, improved sharpness, flicker-free at all speeds, software opens up compatibility with TV pedestal-style zoom/focus readout information
• new extension viewfinder with built-in zoom, drop in diopters, built-in heater option, UL5 viewfinder compatible
• NiMH batteries

The XTRprod from SMS has already been used to film concerts, a documentary and is starting a feature film.


National Academy of the Moving Image Comes Alive!

Man-Sung Son has gathered together an impressive list of film professionals and started the National Academy of the Moving Image. As a not-for-profit organization the Academy will strive to provide a post grad level of training and experience in all aspects of film production. All instructors possess more than 25 years of experience working on major feature films, TV programs and commercials. They have received major awards in their field of expertise. Their knowledge and experience will be passed on to a future generation of filmmakers through instruction and mentoring programs.

The National Academy of the Moving Image Presents a Hands-On Seminar in Film Production
January 8 - 10, 1999

This seminar is open to everyone. Advance registration is requested as seating is limited. Higher fees will also apply at the door.

Three Day Hands-On Seminar in Film Production

Friday, January 8, 1999

Registration and Coffee 8:00 A.M. -- 8:30 A.M. Seminar 8:30 A.M. -- 5:00 P.M.

A respected Hollywood Unit Production Manager (UPM) will explain the many areas of pre-production. The Director will explain all of the areas that fall under the responsibility of the Director and Asst. Director prior to the start of production. The Chicago Film Office and Illinois Film Office representatives will explain about shooting in Chicago and Illinois. They will explain their policies as well as how they can assist. Similar policies exist in all of the states. The Assistant Executive Director of SAG - Chicago Office - will explain the process of dealing with SAG contracts. We will cover areas such as production insurance, permits, budgeting, breaking down a script, story boarding, casting, props, location scouting and reports, security, catering, dealing with the lab and rental houses, releases, etc. We will also show how each department head must prepare each day for the scenes that will be shot.

Saturday -- Jan. 9th

Registration and Coffee 8:00 A.M. -- 8:30 A.M. Seminar 8:30 A.M. -- 6:00 P.M.

This day is devoted to production. We will be shooting in 35mm and each phase of the production will be thoroughly explained. Interaction between the professionals and those attending the seminar will be encouraged. Each member of the teaching crew will explain the details behind each set-up. We want to concentrate on camera angles and positioning, unique lighting set-ups and the often neglected area of "acting for the camera". The responsibilities of each department head will be analyzed. Again, you will note the importance of pre-production. A concurrent "Behind the Scenes" production will also take place.

Sunday, Jan. 10th

will be post production and the issues that follow production Registration and Coffee 10:00 A.M. -- 10:30 A.M. Seminar 10:30 A.M. -- 4:00 P.M.

Sunday will be devoted to editing the footage shot on Saturday. We will touch on the various formats and a respected film editor will talk about the "personality" of an editor. During production, one should already be preparing for marketing and distribution. Learn how important it is to have the right kind of still photos, as well as marketing yourself and not just your project. We will also touch on some of the legal aspects related to film production and distribution. Hopefully, we will also have time to socialize and brainstorm for future projects.

The Friday, and Saturday segments of the seminar are being held at the production center of WTTW-TV. Sunday's segment is being held at the post house - Film and Tape Works.

You may register for one day, two days or all three days. This seminar is a very important step prior to the actual classes that will begin approximately two weeks later. The classes will he tailored for students with prior film knowledge (a type of post graduate training). HOWEVER, THIS SEMINAR IS OPEN TO EVERYONE.

If you would like to register or have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us:

Tel: 312-738-0747
Fax: 312-440-8966
E-Mail: smsprod@sbcglobal.net

Seminar Fee:

All Three Days -- $395.00 Total

One or Two Days only -- $150.00 per day

These fees apply for advance registration and payment only. Please register ASAP as seating is limited. Don't miss this unique opportunity!