James Cameron, known for his directorial skills in blockbusters such as the Avatar or Titanic has predicted that TV broadcasting in 3D format is set for exponential growth in the near future.

Cameron spoke about the integration of 3D with existing 2D for the production to see quick results and acceptance by the masses. He was speaking at the NAB event being held in Las Vegas. His partner in 3D camera technology Vince Paes also joined the discussion. In the view of Cameron 3D technology has unified the world over when he said “We’re using the same lenses and same sensors in both places. Development of technology could be amortised across the whole sector – there’s never been a moment like this in history before.”

Explaining the process of shooting the ESPN Winter X games in 3D he mentioned about 35 cameras if 3D capability is used and each was paired with a 2D to make it work. Integration of the two in his words is most essential. As per Cameron, the latest convention 5D derived from 2D + 3D.

Cameron feels that 3D is progressing even though there were many who refused to accept this. He said at the NAB event that the strategy, the method etc were all the same in 2D which is also what is being followed in 3D.

Broadcasters he said would be able to do 3d production without much difficulty as the process required overlaying their 2D knowledge and experience with the 3D angle. Avatar in 3D format as per him has been based on a 2D focus while adding the 3D elements to it. He had been sure that the final product would get to the people in both 2D and 3D. So far as live events covering goes, Cameron mentioned that the need was for 3D equipment to be positioned at vantage positions to cover the event with 2D taking up the rest of the positions. The crew also who were more qualified in 2D format of shooting were to be used for the 3D camera equipment usage. When it came to cost also he opined that 3D shooting costs would have to be brought down to levels of 2D and only then would it succeed.

Production houses, he mentioned, would need to come up with larger projects than just one single episode or single game as is happening right now. This was one more method of bringing down production costs he opined. Cameron himself has donned the role of a producer for film directed by Andrew Admason. The theme of the movie revolves around the Cirque de Soleil circus group and would be released by Paramount.

Pace said that the company had introduced a ‘shadowing’ approach for 3D coverage of the US Masters golf tournament, tapping into the expertise of existing 2D crews.

Pace on his part told the gathering that 3D was the future and this was evident from the fact that the two company had paired in 3D productions. Pace said “ESPN threw their best people at it, and these are the kind of people who work with us to make these success stories,” on why ESPN had approached them for covering the Winter X games.

The duo then displayed some 3D equipment that would work along with 2D equipment. This included the Epic Shadow camera system. Also the Alexa M Shadow lightweight camera, Mini X-Frame integrated set control centre, the MaxRemote Shadow Cam were explained by the duo. The Shadow D equipment which can be mounted either on tip or side of the 2D camera was also explained by the duo of Cameron and Pace.

via digitaltveurope

Sovan Mandal (697 Posts)

Sovan Mandal is the senior tablet and tech corespondent for goodereader.com and 3D Specialist. He brings a international approach to news that is not just applicable to the North American market, but also Asia, India, Europe and others. Sovy brings his own writing flavor to the website and is interested in Science Fiction, Technology and Writing. Any questions, send an email