Best solution for using 35mm lenses

G

gi-jones

Well-known member
I know this is a topic that's been, and is being, discussed endlessly. However I feel that I need an overview of the different solutions available and if possible the obvious pros and cons.

Also what is the cheapest way of aquiring the needed lenses, and what would be an ideal "lens pack"?
 
Basically a 35mm adapter has two parts. The first part holds the 35mm lens and permits an image to be focused on some kind of screen. The second part enables the video camera to focus on and record the image on the screen.

The biggest distinction is between still screens and moving screens. On film the grain changes from frame to frame. Using a stationary screen, the challenge is to get the grain small enough so that it isn't annoying. With a moving screen, the grain can be more the size of film grain, and then the motion makes it change from frame to frame giving a film-like look.

35mm lenses invert the image. Even in an SLR camera the image is upside down when it hits the film. It can be uprighted optically using prisms. But this consumes light and adds glass and potential distortion to the image. All major NLEs provide a way to flip the image in post, so its not a problem. However, focus and framing with an adapter might make you want to add an external monitor that can be turned upside down.

Things to consider: 1) how much light the adapter consumes, 2) what kind of lenses can be used with it, (do you have some already), 3) what accessories are you going to want (35mm follow focus? Matte Box?), 4) do you like the final look it produces?, 5) how much did you want to spend?

People have gotten great results with a lot of different adapters. Search the threads for examples in the clips section of both DVX and HVX. Some are DIY. Some are *really* expensive. Some are a great value.

I have the M2 adapter from redrock microsystems. http://www.redrockmicro.com/. I'm very happy with it.

They have a number of starter packages. They offer alternate lens mounts so you can rent film camera lenses. And several still-mount options if you want or re-purpose your existing SLR lenses. They have accessories like a 35mm Follow Focus and Matte Box available.

Don't discount the importance of support in your purchase decision. I think there is a learning curve with all 35mm adapters, both in setup and in use. Redrock provides online video tutorials to help you setup and use their package. And they have a user forum where you can compare notes with others and get help from people with experience.

Lenses: f-a-s-t. With nikon lenses that I'm using, f/2.8 is about the slowest that will give decent results with only one sun available. I've used an f/3.8 and the image is dark. That's on the HVX. If you are using different lenses and a different camera, you'll have different light sensitivity. The M2 supposedly consumes less light than most of the other adapters.

I don't have experience with other adapters to compare to. So maybe someone who has used several of them can provide additional insight.
 
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So to get you right. When using the M2 adapter the image will be flipped upside down in the viewfinder and the LCD? Isn't that annoying as hell? Or is there an in-camera solution for displaying the video correctly?
 
Our recommendation for solving this is an on-camera monitor. DVRack now as an M2 Mode that provides a flipped image as well. CineForm has an M2 Mode for flipping images on acquisition. We are working on more partnerships like this.

Even better, the JVC HD200 has in-camera flip including viewing and recording. Our hope/expectation is that other camera manufactureres will follow suit. That is the best solution overall so additional optics don't have to be introduced into the visual path.
 
bvalente said:
Our recommendation for solving this is an on-camera monitor. DVRack now as an M2 Mode that provides a flipped image as well. CineForm has an M2 Mode for flipping images on acquisition. We are working on more partnerships like this.
Click to expand...

An M2 MODE? You guys are doing great I see. Smart move, and nice work!
 
bvalente said:
Our recommendation for solving this is an on-camera monitor. DVRack now as an M2 Mode that provides a flipped image as well. CineForm has an M2 Mode for flipping images on acquisition. We are working on more partnerships like this.

Even better, the JVC HD200 has in-camera flip including viewing and recording. Our hope/expectation is that other camera manufactureres will follow suit. That is the best solution overall so additional optics don't have to be introduced into the visual path.
Click to expand...


So Brian...
What's up with "revolution"?
 
coolguy007 said:
Redrocks Mattebox is out?!
Click to expand...


Did I say that?

Well, the microMatteBox has been announced for late Summer release.


Also, announcement on Revolution coming soon....
 
#7 Thats a nice set. What kind of money did you spend on all that?

Is there a guide somewhere to understanding lens specs?
 
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