HD Hardware
Is there any difference between high definition and standard definition lenses?
The main difference is the quality of the glass components. Due to the high resolution of
HD and the fact that HD has a 16:9 ratio only, any flaws in the optics will cause
aberrations to show up.
The high resolution of HD means that even a slightly out-of-focus
area is more detectable. As Sony's HD camcorders have twice as many pixels on a CCD
which is the same size as a CCD in a Digi-beta, they are about one Stop less sensitive
than a Digi-beta. Shoot with a 1/50th shutter (to reduce judder in 25p mode), and you lose
a second Stop. So HD generally requires more light and you maybe shooting wide open.
This is useful if trying to emulate the shorter depth-of-field of film lenses.
Can prime lenses be used with high definition cameras?
Yes, prime lenses can be used with HD cameras. Some of the benefits are the similarity to film lenses, such as ‘T stops’ rather than ‘F stops’, more consistent colour temperature and minimised focus breathing.
We can supply a Pro 35 adaptor to enable you to mount film primes on the camcorders, or we also have a range of HD Primes available for hire.
