| The Panasonic AW-HE50 camera was chosen due to its small and versatile form factor |
Leaders in robotic camera set-ups, UK-based custom studio production services provider Roll to Record has updated its portfolio with 64 Panasonic AW-HE50 HD integrated pan-tilt remote cameras to shoot the follow-up series of Twofour’s ‘Educating Essex’; an award-winning observational documentary that follows a group of GCSE students and their teachers.
As the principal technology provider for Big Brother UK since the show’s inception in 2000, it is imperative for Roll to Record to select unobtrusive, reliable and highly capable equipment to meet the grueling demands of reality television.
One reason why the Panasonic AW-HE50 was chosen was its small and versatile form factor, integrating camera, lens, and pan-tilt functionality into a compact and lightweight body for quiet and concealed operability; a fundamental element in the production of observational documentaries.
Along with well-concealed operation, the AW-HE50’s 1/3 type full-HD MOS sensor and digital signal processor (DSP) along with Dynamic Range Stretch (DRS) and Hybrid (2D/3D) Digital Noise Reduction (Hybrid DNR), enables Roll to Record to deliver crisp, clear, and most importantly realistic HD video even in low lighting conditions. In addition, the cameras come with an 18x HD optical zoom lens and a 10x digital zoom lens that offer wide angle and close up shots from afar for ultimate flexibility in shooting.
Another key feature that influenced Roll to Record’s decision was the AW-HE50’s compatibility with its current equipment. IP and serial control capability allow the integrated remote camera to be easily configured via web browser and connected to Roll to Record’s existing camera equipment, providing an ideal and cost-effective solution.
The fixed rig filming finishes in March.