Which camera do I need for a stadium broadcast?

sladen

Active member
I am about to meet with a professional sports team regarding a potential video project. My question is, what type of camera would I need to rent that would have enough resolution to project a quality image on a stadium size screen?
 
Depends on the resolution of the screen.

Most likely any studio broadcast camera would be fine. The big screens actually don't always have higher resolution and they don't need to be because of the viewing distance.
 
it depends on what sort of switching system and the output resolution to the screen.

Are you creating a system from the ground up or trying to tap into an existing system.

Personally, I would dislike using either one of those cameras for live ENG work, just because they aren't really meant for it.



well, I am assuming you are trying to do live. Are you?
 
Sorry, I shouldn't have used the word 'broadcast' This wouldn't be video that is projected live - the screen would be playing a produced video already pre-recorded.
 
That doesn't change JPM's advice as being correct. If the material is only to be used for the stadium, the ease of use of an EFP camera could make it the right choice. As he said, the big screens don't need great video. It just won't show up. What is more important is what type of project is being produced. If the material is being shot at a live stadium event, with the need to move around quickly and set up shots quickly, then an EFP camera is definitely the camera to use. An AF-100 or RED would be overkill for quality and would be a unnecessary nuisance in the field. But if this is something produced with plenty of time to set up shots as in a studio environment, or if this project may be used elsewhere then RED or AF-100 might be the right choice.
 
Paul thanks for weighing in. Yes, this video would be produced ahead of time and then presented on the stadium screen. My DP has access to an AF100, so that's why I suggested it.

Just out of curiosity, would the resolution from footage shot with the 5D be acceptable for stadium screen viewing?
 
Stadium displays have HD specs of 1920 x 1080 and millions of colors, just like any other monitor. But the environment leaves viewing a high quality production much to be desired. So the need for an excellent picture just isn't there. I would think any professional HD camera would provide an acceptable product for stadium use.

But you didn't answer the question about the project. For me, the type of project makes the difference. If I were in a studio or indoor environment and the project was not a live production, meaning there are rehearsals and takes, then a camera like an AF-100 would be preferred. If the project is a run and gun project, meaning you are going to shoot a live event like a race or art show, then I would go with an ENG camera. An AF-100 is not ideal for on-the-move field work.
 
You need to talk with the crew running the system. They will be able to tell you what spec your deliverables will need to be provided in and what format they accept. That's where you need to start before you select your camera.

Good Luck!

Dave
 
Gotcha. The nature of the project is a music video, and produced and shot the way a short film would be.

Many thanks for your input.
 
Back
Top