Explore one of the first implementations of the RED Digital Cinema V-Raptor as a camera array in aerial cinematography applications. The array of 3 cameras with Zeiss CP.3 lenses was integrated into a SHOTOVER K1 to get a shot of a big scenic background plate for a feature film.
A camera array of 3 RED V-Raptors to capture 12K resolution
These pictures were posted by freelance aerial director of photography, Phil Arntz in the RED V-RAPTOR / DSMC3 Users FB group. This array of 3 RED Digital Cinema V-Raptor 8K cameras was assembled by The Aerial Film Company. As stated in its Instagram post: “We’re excited to introduce the world’s first RED V-Raptor 8K Vista Vision aerial camera array. Integrated into our Shotover K1, this 3 camera V-Raptor array offers the same class-leading stabilization as our single-camera payloads. 12K resolution, 17+ stops of dynamic range and capture of lens data offer ultimate flexibility in post-production”. Furthermore, The Aerial Film Company elaborated that: “To meet the fast-paced demands of the production environment, our array arrives as a pre-configured payload. The 3 in house RED V-Raptors and a matched set of Zeiss 21mm CP.3 xD lenses offer consistency and repeatability. 50TB of media ensure no crucial moment is missed”.
Application: A big scenic background for a feature
According to Phil Arntz, this camera array has been used for a feature film. “We are utilizing this for big scenic background plates and the request was maximum Field of View and coverage” Arntz added. Check out more pictures of this RED V-Raptor array below:
An array of cinema cameras to maximize field of view
The utilization of an array assembled from cinema cameras is pretty common in high-end production when a maximized field of view is needed for specific applications (VR, IMAX, SFX, etc).
For instance, check out the above 9-DXL2 array for capturing plates for driving sequences implemented on the “The Little Things” film (Panavision Unveils Crazy 9 DXL2 Array on “The Little Things” Set). Also, explore below the impressive 6 camera aerial array involving RED Helium and 21mm Zeiss CP.3 lenses to capture a massive field of view that is ideal for use in VFX-driven productions for “Black Widow” (The Aerial Cinematography of Black Widow: Orchestra of VENICE + Premista, RED + Zeiss, on Drones and Helicopters).
However, we wrote about an experiment of the ACHTEL 9×7 camera to try and replace those ultra-complicated arrays, in order to facilitate issues like size, weight, post stitching, setup time, and more (Read: ACHTEL 9X7 Replaces an Array of 6 Cinema Cameras).
What are your thoughts about these arrays? Is it overkill? Do you think it’s strengthening the need for more super-resolution cinema cameras that can replace (or reduce) this heavy and complicated setup?
Product List
Here’re the products mentioned in the article, and the links to purchase them from authorized dealers.
- Red Digital Cinema V-RAPTOR ST 8K VV DSMC3 Camera
- ZEISS CP.3 21mm T2.9 Compact Prime Lens
