It became a tradition. Every year we collect the data regarding the camera and lenses behind the most promising films of the year, and we convert it to a simplified, user-friendly chart. This allows us to try to find an inclination toward a particular camera and lens manufacturers. This year was no different. Explore below the pre-Oscar camera chart.

References

First, we’d like to emphasize that all the data was collected from IndieWire’s article: “Oscar Cinematography Survey: Here Are the Cameras and Lenses Used to Shoot 42 Awards Contenders”. We’ve built the charts based on IndieWire’s article. Furthermore, the chart only shows the cameras survey regarding their manufacturers. If you’d like to dive more into the details, head to IndieWire article where you can read further about the directors, cinematographers, and what they have to say about shooting those films.

Tendency

ALEXA

By comparing this data against other previous charts we have created (Oscar 2019, Sundance 2019, and Cannes 2019), we can explore some interesting facts. First, ALEXA Mini remains on the top. Regarding the Mini LF, it’s still premature since this camera is brand new. But, the ALEXA LF usage increases as more and more cinematographers pursue after the large format look. 

Nevertheless, traditional cinematographers don’t change their winning horse and stick with the Mini.

BTW, for those who are eager to learn more about ALEXA cameras, ARRI offers Certified Online Training for Camera Systems in general (read our review), and for large format specifically (read our review). 

RED

RED is making progress and penetrates the conservative film industry slowly but firmly. We definitely can see more and more RED outside of the Netflix world. It seems that RED usage is expanding over other options (mainly Sony and Canon), but it’s only a speculation.

Panavision

Panavision lenses are trendy. It will be proven in the next article. However, Panavision cameras (film and DXL) have made a comeback this year. More and more cinematographers choose to shoot with Panavision cameras.

Canon

Unfortunately, there is no Canon on the list. The reason for that is unknown. We can assume that more chose RED over Canon. However, it will be interesting to see how the new C500 Mark II will blend in.

Pre-Oscar camera chart: The cameras behind 2019’s top films

Important note! We are working hard on those original charts and infographics for the filmmaking community. Thus, you can download the image for your personal use. In case you desire to embed the chart on your social media or website, please give proper credit to Y.M.Cinema Magazine linked to this article.

Explore the chart below. Press on the image to get a larger view.