Video capture with an HDSLR can be tricky with day exteriors, even when the camera is rated at 200 or 320 ISO. The Schneider True-Match Variable Density Filter system offers a quick way to get exposure into a workable zone. Aesthetically, the unit allows directors and DP’s to maintain a level of exposure that takes advantage of the larger sensor area of the HDSLR by keeping the f-stop low and the depth of focus shallow, thus delivering a more filmic look.

The True-Match filter system consists of a match set of filters that, when turned in opposite directions, create various levels of ND. By carefully matching these filters, blue shift has been eliminated at high-density settings. The range is 11 stops of exposure compensation. A 77mm True-Match circular pola is threaded onto the lens and a step-up ring is threaded into the 77mm polarizer filter. The step-up ring accepts a rotating 4×4 filter stage, which holds a 4×4 True-Match linear polarizer.

With all the various HDSLRs appearing on the market, keeping their features straight can be a bit of a challenge. Abel’s Andy Shipsides has put together a handy chart comparing five of these cameras side-by-side. He compares the Canon 5D Mark II, 1D Mark IV, the 7D, the new Rebel T2i, and the Panasonic Lumix GH1. His chart is available to view or download in the Resources section of abelcine.com.

Switronix has released an adapter to power a Canon 5D Mark II or 7D off a power tap. It is a simple adapter called the XP-DSLR-C that allows users to adapt the Canon DC coupler directly to a battery or other source with a power tap plug. So an Anton Bauer Gold Mount will work as well as the D-Tap found on an IDX battery. This will greatly extend the battery life of the cameras, and the adapter has an additional power tap on it to power other 12V accessories. Look for an adapter for the Panasonic Lumix GH1 in the future as well.

Abel Cine Tech’s first rental of the Panasonic GH-1 / Hot Rod Deluxe combination was an unusual one. When this camera and Hot Rod’s PL adapter for it first appeared in prototype form, the internet was abuzz with indie filmmakers looking to use the rig for low budget productions, but our first client saw it as a very different device. Pictured above is the rig with a Hawk 35mm anamorphic prime, a lens so large that it requires a bridgeplate support. Abel rigged out a solution, and the system went out with the DP and Director for a weekend tech scout. The production itself is a medium budget feature to be shot primarily on the RED One camera. The tech scout is also a test of the Lumix GH-1 rig to see if footage blown up to 35mm filmout will hold up well enough to intercut with the RED One. If so, the Lumix will work as both a Director’s Finder during setups as well as a B-camera for the shoot.

The Hot Rod PL Mount Adapter for the Panasonic Lumix GH1 has generated a lot of interest, and I thought I would throw a little more fuel on the fire. First take a look at the teaser trailer and behind the scenes for the movie REJOUER, which was shot entirely on the GH1 with the HotRod Adapter. Then stop by DV.com to view their article on this little camera – The DSLR Cam Rises. And finally, stop by our HDSLR Specialty Shop to see the HotRod PL, the Lumix GH1, and a bunch of other accessories for HDSLR cameras.

The Lumix GH1 is a new digital camera from Panasonic that can not only shoot excellent still photos, but 1080 24P & 720 60P video too. In the video, I show off this little camera and how you can put a PL mount lens on it with the new Hot Rod PL Mount Lens adapter. And to make this combination even cooler, I put a brand new Zeiss Compact Prime on the setup. Check out the video, and come by our office to get your hands on it. Also check out our new HDSLR Specialty Shop, which is growing by the minute.