Sony has released new firmware for the PDW-U1 that enables full data write back. The previous firmware version allowed writing MXF files into the Clips folder, but the new version adds the ability to write any data type to the UserData folder. This means that the ProDiscs can be used for data archive of any material, up to 46.4 GB on a Dual Layer disc. The PDW-U1 has finally become a full fledged data archive machine. The latest firmware also adds support for mixed format recording discs. Download the firmware from Sony’s support site here - PDW-U1 Firmware version 2.2.1 for Windows & Mac.

Panasonic has just announced the new HPM200, which is an upgraded version of the previous model P2 Mobile (HPM110). This new version has all the features of the HPM110 and a host of new features that add a great deal of functionality. The new unit will be available in October with a list price of $16,000. Here are 10 new features that I like about the HPM200 and how they improve P2 field production and post production.

…continue reading 10 New Features of the P2 Mobile HPM200

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We just received the Nexto Video Storage Pro and I’m very impressed with this little box. We are selling the 500 GB version, and the 128GB Solid State version will be available in the future. Check out the video blog and see what it can do.

The Video Storage Pro has low res playback of many different formats. Here is a list of supported formats:

• Panasonic – AVC-Intra 100/50, DVCPRO HD, DVCPRO 50, DVCPRO
  (Note: AVC Intra playback is not yet 100%, this will improve with the next firmware.)
• Sony – XDCAM EX (HQ/SP)
• JVC – XDCAM EX (MP4 format), Quicktime Format in later release
• Convergent Design – XDCAM HD formats (MXF)
• RED – R3D – Next Firmware
• AVCHD – Sony/Canon/Panasonic Flavor – Next Firmware

Look for a firmware release in Quarter 4 of this year.

Update: I tested Red CF Card download speeds and was able to download a 16 GB card in just under 11minutes.

Left to Right: DP Peter Nelson, Adman George Lois, and Director Doug Pray. (Credit: Michael Nadeau)

Have you ever wondered how the most famous ad campaigns, such as “Just Do It,” “Where’s The Beef?,” and “Think Different”, were born? In the new film Art & Copy, director Doug Pray explores the work of some of the most influential advertising creatives of our time – people who have impacted our culture, though they are barely recognized outside their field.

Longtime Abel friend and client Peter Nelson was the Director of Photography on the project, working with the Panasonic Varicam 27H to allow for the more polished approach the director was aiming for. Pray and Nelson, along with editor Philip Owens, strove to avoid the more grainy, hand-held vibe, choosing instead to focus on what fueled the creatives’ inspiration.

Art & Copy is an official selection of the 2009 Sundance Film Festival and the Toronto Hot Docs Festival, as well as the winner of Best Director, Documentary at the Atlanta Film Festival. It opens in select cities today. For more information, please visit the official site: ArtAndCopyFilm.com.

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There are many small LED lights on the market, but most have little to no control, splashing their light out all over the place. Dedotec has taken their renown condenser lensing technology and applied it to a small LED light fixture to make a very versatile and controllable on-camera unit. Watch the video to see the many features of the Dedolight Ledzilla on board mini LED light.

No Woman, No Cry. More than just a Bob Marley song, it is also the name of Christy Turlington’s new documentary on the issue of maternal mortality. Best known for being one of the top supermodels of the ‘90s, Turlington has shifted her focus to social activism. The film seeks to raise awareness and inspire others to get involved by telling the stories of dedicated individuals working around the world to lower maternal mortality rates.

Working with Turlington on this project is her friend Dallas Brennan Rexer, Producer of the Emmy-nominated Deadline and the wife of long-time Abel friend & client Will Rexer. The Director of Deadline, Kirsten Johnson is also on board as the Director of Photography. Abel’s Mitch Gross and NY Rental Manager Daniel Gurzi worked closely with Rexer and Johnson, providing technical advice on equipment and workflow.

Turlington’s production company, Turly Pictures, rented the Panasonic HDX900 for use on the documentary. The camera’s versatility and image quality made it the perfect choice for shooting in far-flung locations such as Bangladesh, Tanzania and Guatemala. Additionally, the project was one of the first to rent the Cam-Wave, allowing them to have wireless uncompressed HD transmission in a lightweight, camera-mounted solution.

No Woman, No Cry is slated for a theatrical release in 2010 to coincide with the 10th anniversary of the Millennium Development Goals, goals established by the United Nations as part of a global agenda to reduce poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy and discrimination against women. For more information on the documentary and the issue of maternal mortality, visit ChristyTurlington.com.

Sony has created several scene files (32 to be exact) for the PDW-700 and PDW-F800 camcorders. These looks include everything from a Daylight look to a “Zombie” look for horror films. Download the whole set zipped up here – PDW-700/F800 Scene Files - and make sure to read this pdf document – Scene File Descriptions – which explains each look in detail. Thanks Sony!