When Panasonic introduced the AG3DP1, there was a fair amount of skepticism on the part of many. It has been said by many that single body, fixed twin lens 3D cameras can not shoot the extreme close up shots that Hollywood loves. But the Panasonic AG3DP1 with two sets of 1/3 type, full-HD 2.2 megapixel 3MOS imagers with enhanced sensitivity and a 20-bit Digital Signal Processor to acquire full production quality and native 1920 x 1080 resolution images can really do it. This camera records images to 2 -P2 cards, Panasonic’s proprietary recording system. The 3DP1 records in AVC-Intra 100/50, and is 50Hz/60Hz switchable, an added benefit to producers like myself who shoot for global clients. In AVC-Intra 100/50, it records in 1080 at 59.94i, 29.97pN, 23.98pN, 50i and 25pN and in 720p at 59.94p, 50p, 29.97pN, 23.98pN and 25pN. For added creative flexibility, the 3DP1 has variable frame rate recording for creating fast and slow motion effects. In 720p mode, you can choose from 20 variable frame steps between 12 and 60 frames per second.

The 3DP1 is equipped with dual optical, wide 17X (target) zoom lenses and can record for up to 80 minutes on dual 64GB P2 cards in AVC-Intra 100 1080/24pN. The camera recorder offers professional interfaces including dual HD SDI outs, HDMI (3D compatible) out, and two XLR connectors. It offers Genlock and timecode inputs for multi-camera operation. It is also equipped with a remote terminal for focus iris, zoom, REC start/stop and convergence point. Its 8.1cm (3.2 inches) LCD screen provides the option to switch from Left, Right or overlay image display that facilitates reviewing depth information without the need for external tools.

What is even better is that the Panasonic AG3DP1 is instantly recognized by Edius in the Clip Browser. This makes ingesting and transferring a snap. As for playback on the timeline, realtime, with no studdering. Stereo pairs in a click and easy to apply color correction and all with easy Keyframing.

The subject is a young Thai model/actress, Jan, who graciously volunteered for the testing of the new camera that will be used in an upcoming Martial Arts movie that I will be starting production on soon. The test, can you get extreme close ups with a fixed lens single body 3D camera? I set up a quick back drop and dolly track and experimented with different combinations and focal lengths. I tested the variable rates and both zoomed in and dolly’d in to see what it all would look like.

The results, in a word, Fantastic! But I’ll let you judge.

By: Al Caudullo

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