Cinegear Expo Highlights Digital Technology

Record Numbers of Attendees Get Hands-On Time With Next-Gen Equipment

More than 200 exhibitors and thousands of attendees came together for the 2008 CineGear Expo in Los Angeles last month, giving the trade show one of its best-ever turnouts.

Braving temperatures of more than 100 degrees at the Universal Studios Backlot, industry professionals were able to check out the latest equipment, including new digital cameras and storage devices.

“Digital makes things easier, but it also can be more challenging. It’s a new skill set that our members have to learn,” pointed out First Assistant Cameraman and National Officer for Local 600 Rusty Burrell. “That’s why events like these are so important.  They teach us how to use that new technology efficiently with hands-on training.”

“Digital is becoming more a part of this industry than film. It’s not the future, it’s here right now,” added Camera Assistant David Weinreb.

Participants were interested in 35mm lens adapters for HD cameras, as well as accessories like tripods and lights.

“I generally shoot for TV, but the advent of digital has forced me to buy digital cameras (and accessories) in order to compete as a freelancer,” said Director of Photography and Cameraman Jeff Freeman, who attended to check out O’Conner tripods.  “There are so many different formats that I have to have as many as I can to compete for jobs.”

Of particular interest were the Red cameras, which are continuing to be upgraded. The company recently announced two new models for next year that should fix many of the problems the current camera is experiencing.

Other key debuts on the technology front included a sneak peak of Dalsa’s new beta version Evolution 4K digital cinematography camera, which will be available for testing later this summer, as well as Cooke Red S4/i lenses from ZGC and the next generation of LED lighting from Letz and other manufacturers.

In addition to hands-on time with exhibitors’ equipment, attendees also had the chance to take part in premier seminar and master classes, as well as a film competition. Attendees said one of the highlights of these series was director of photography Wally Pfister’s discussion and preview of the film The Dark Knight. Another popular event was the presentation of a lifetime achievement award to Steadicam inventor Garrett Brown.

Continuing its tradition of creating a casual atmosphere complete with open bar, CineGear also gave participants opportunities to network.

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