VaricamLT: Video: VariCam LT Infrared Footage, I.R. Filter Removed

[mitch@provideo]

One of the often overlooked hidden gems of the Panasonic Varicam LT is the user-removable IR filter.

As Panasonic puts it:
"The Cinema VariCam LT has an integrated, detachable IR cut filter. This feature allows 4K image capture in extremely dark unlit nightscapes. This is ideal for capturing nocturnal wildlife and other scenes with no illumination. Also, the IR filter can be used in daylight as a creative tool for achieving a unique look."

I recently worked with an astral photographer here in Portland who explained to me the reasons why a removable IR filter is such a killer feature for that line of work. The ability for an owner/operator to remove the IR filter themselves for a specific shoot is a great feature that sets the VariCam LT apart. Its not something that everyone will use but for a select crowd it could be a clincher.

Check out the images here:

Eric Petrie
epetrie@provideoandtape.com
Finance the Panasonic VariCam LT for $487 a month, 0% $0 down options available
Finance the Canon C300mkII for $344 a month, 0% $0 down options available
Apply Now

 

[RayZan]

I'm a little confused here. The IR filter that came with the camera is an IR "pass" filter not "cut". It's for the purpose of getting this unique look like the video above. Now, does anyone know if the Varicam LT in fact comes with an integrated IR "cut" filter in front of the sensor? I have been having problems with IR contamination when using Tungsten lights with the camera. The problem is solved with an IR cut filter in front of the lens. Has anyone experienced that or can shed some light on the subject?
Ray

 

[TheDingo]

I'm a little confused here. The IR filter that came with the camera is an IR "pass" filter not "cut".

...Actually I think you've got that backwards. My understanding is that the Varicam LT comes with a user-removable IR CUT filter, that you can remove to shoot IR videos, and then put it back when you want to shoot regular videos.

 

[mitch@provideo]

The camera ships with an I.R. "cut" filter installed, as is common for most cameras. Here is what the VariCam operation guide has to say:

The following video representation can be achieved by replacing the IR cut glass (blue glass) mounted in the optical block with a supplied IR recording glass (clear glass).
Night shooting using the IR light
Infrared photography using only IR optical transmittance

1 Remove the lens mount.
2 Remove the three screws securing the IR cut glass, and then remove the IR cut glass.
-Use caution to not drop or lose the IR cut glass or screws to secure the glass. f Do not remove the screw behind the IR cut glass. Debris or dust could get inside of the camera.
3 Mount the IR recording glass, and then secure the glass using securing screws in three areas.
-The recommended torque when tightening the screws is 0.1 N·m.
4 Attach the lens mount adaptor.

Replace the IR cut glass using the opposite procedure when returning to normal recording from IR recording. Replace the IR cut glass and glass for IR recording in a stable location being careful not to drop the glass. Blow the glass clean using a commercially available blower when the glass is covered in debris or dust. Do not clean the glass using high-pressure air or gas. Wipe the glass gently with a soft, clean cloth when the glass is smudged with water spots or fingerprints. The glass may warp or the coating may peel when a solvent is used.


I haven't encountered users experiencing unwanted IR polution in standard shooting. However, if you are experiencing that with your unit i would strongly recommend reaching out to Panasonic's VariCam service team. They are being very pro-active on anything relating to VariCam. They really want to establish a good reputation for service and support specifically on this product. Also, they're still in the early failure field analysis stage, gathering as much data about what might go wrong as possible. I hope some of this has been helpful. Let me know if there is anything i can do.

Eric Petrie
epetrie@provideoandtape.com
Finance the Panasonic VariCam LT for $487 a month, 0% $0 down options available
Finance the Canon C300mkII for $344 a month, 0% $0 down options available
Apply Now