3D Film Factory Introduces New Motorized 3D Bullet Camera Rig

Just got an email from Karl Kozak, owner of 3D Film Factory of San Diego and they have a new version of their 3D Bullet Rig that now brings in motorization. As an aspiring 3D filmmaker myself with Phobia Films, I thought that this press release would be of interest to many looking for a budget native 3D rig. Have a look (emphasis is mine):

3D Film Factory Introduces New Motorized 3D Bullet Camera Rig To Adjust Inter-Occular and Convergence Remotely

Hollywood, CA – The latest version of the 3D Bullet Rig now offers complete remote control (motorization) of the Inter-occular and convergence settings.  The newest Bullet Rig is now the most affordable, motorized 3D system available.

This latest version utilizes small Heden or Presten servo motors to remotely control BOTH the inter-occular (0”-3.5”) and convergence (0°-3°) remotely.  Of course, manual control is still an option was well.

"We’ve used the rig on a five month 3D feature.  It’s India’s most ambitious 3D project to date and stars some of their biggest stars.  We shot with two Epics", said veteran stereographer Keith Driver.  "The crew was initially on a larger much more expensive system, but believe it or not, it moved too slow, cost a fortune.  They weren’t getting the set-ups.  They switched to the Bullet Rig and the set-ups were almost doubled.  It’s a fast, light rig.  Because it’s inexpensive, some stereographers dismiss it - because they’ve never used it."

Priced at a fraction of other professional 3D rigs (under $7K), this compact beam-splitter rig is the most affordable, professional solution for location, reality, or feature 3D filmmaking.  Its’ list of features surpasses that of other more expensive rigs.  The Bullet rig incorporates a solid rail system that supports greater weight loads.  The rig also features adjustable handles, shoulder mount, tripod mount and works seamlessly with  EasyRig, Steadicam, or just handheld.

Weighing approx. 15 lbs. (5.8 kgs.) the Bullet Rig accommodates the Red Epic, Canon DSLR 5D, 7D, XF105, XF305, Sony F3, EX3’s, HDCP1, X5U, Z1U, Panasonic AF100, HPX250, Blackmagic, and many other professional HD cameras.

About the 3D Film Factory
Established in 2008 by award-winning filmmakers and veteran stereographers, the 3D Film Factory has been the worldwide leader in professional, affordable 3D camera rigs and real-time 3D monitoring solutions.  In addition we provide a host of 3D production services worldwide including, stereographers ‘for hire’, 3D camera rig rental, 3D viewing systems, and 3D post, as well as intensive 3D training workshops.  Former clients include ESPN, NASA, Disney, HD Cinema, Pinewood Studios and Discovery.   For more information visit www.3DFilmFactory.com

New Stereoscopic 3D Training Program in Los Angeles

Here is an interesting course being made available for stereoscopic 3D training. Have a look if you are interested in picking up some fundamentals...

Press Release:
3D Film Factory, a leading manufacturer of professional, affordable 3D camera systems, is now offering hands-on, comprehensive programs aimed at educating and training stereographers, cinematographers and production professionals in 3D filmmaking. For years the company’s team of in-house, veteran stereographers have been on the forefront of 3D production, shooting 3D projects and training select clients worldwide. Now with the industry on the rise, they’re making their expertise, experience and 3D secrets available to those who are eager to learn.

“Most of our stereographers have spent the last few years filming, producing and teaching 3D to a wide host of clients worldwide“, said company president Karl Kozak. “This is the next step, creating an affordable, intensive, hands-on 3D training program for veteran cinematographers and first-time filmmakers alike. This is the ’how to’ for anyone hungry to learn the secrets of 3D filmmaking, the right way.”

This intensive 2-day introductory course covers the following topics: 3D pre-production & prep, choosing the right gear & support, camera & 3D rig calibration, genlock issues, creating balanced 3D images, 3D filming guidelines, adjusting intraocular & convergence, shooting ratios, professional 3D vs. amateur 3D, filming with beam-splitter rigs & side-by-side rigs, realtime 3D monitoring techniques, lighting for 3D, post production methods & short-cuts, 3D exhibition formats and much more.

“The goal here is to demystify the whole 3D process and simplify 3D filmmaking, starting with the fundamentals through more advanced techniques“, said the company’s lead stereographer Keith Driver. “We’re teaching 3D from inception, through production, post and even exhibition. You’re going to learn what’s taken us years of 3D production to gleam - how to create balanced, brilliant 3D images, that maintain viewer comfort and serve the story.”

This is not merely a seminar or lecture. Participants will spend 2 full days of hands-on shooting and editing in 3D under the direction of a highly-trained, veteran stereographer. The program is designed to accommodate both the complete novice, to those professionals with previous 3D filmmaking experience looking to learn more or fine tune their existing skills. Teaching stereographers understand that some participants may have pending 3D projects, therefore they welcome all questions, individual concerns and unique situations.

Furthermore, participants should keep in mind that 3D filmmaking is not an exact science, but rather an evolutionary process, with fluid rules and varying outcomes. Complete 3D camera rigs, realtime monitors, and editing equipment will be provided by the company on site.

The first such training session will be held July 10 & 11th, 2010, in Hollywood, California. For complete program information, locations, pricing, availability and registration please email info@3DFilmFactory.com.

About the 3D Film Factory
Based in sunny San Diego, California, the 3D Film Factory is a 3D equipment manufacturer AND a full-service 3D production house. More specifically, the company specializes in the design and marketing of production-ready, affordable stereoscopic 3D camera systems and real-time 3D viewing systems, as well as, a wide variety of 3D production services for clients, from ‘stereographers for hire’, to hands-on 3D training, to complete 3D productions through post and exhibition.

To learn more about the 3D Film Factory’s production services, training, or stereoscopic 3D camera rigs visit www.3DFilmFactory.com

Pricing is $1,295 for the 2-days. 3D Film Factory is giving discounts for those who have purchased 3D camera rigs from them as well.

3D Film Factory's New Affordable 3D Beam-Splitter!!

Jim here. I thought I would give you a heads up that 3DFilmFactory has just released an affordable 3D beam-splitter that allows filmmakers to turn to 3D for less money. Very cool design and lots of support for today's smaller 3D cameras. Have a look!

Click photos to enlarge.

Here is their press release: 3D Film Factory has released the World’s most affordable 3D camera system for professional camcorders, compact HD cameras and DSLR cameras – the 3D-BS Mini Rig. This lightweight, precise, stereoscopic beam-splitter rig features an introductory retail price of just $2,495, while providing, almost unlimited camera and alignment control. Developed by award-winning filmmakers and veteran stereographers, the BS Mini rig offers a viable alternative to high-priced 3D rigs costing ten times as much.

“Our goal is to proliferate 3D production by making it accessible. In the real world that means making professional 3D systems that filmmakers can actually afford. The 3D-BS Mini Rig is our answer to that need“, said company president Karl Kozak. “Other rig manufacturers are making behemoth, expensive, overly complicated rigs. We went the other way. Creating the World’s least expensive, professional beam-splitter. It’s simple and small, and made for the Si-2K mini, Canon 5D, 7D, Red’s Scarlet and compact camcorders. We couldn’t be happier with the result.”

The 3D-BS Mini Rig (beam-splitter) is fully adjustable, allowing users to have total control over convergence settings (1° to 5°), inter-ocular (camera-to-camera) distances (0” to 4”) and, with an extra adapter, you get full camera tilt and roll (XYZ axis), for perfect alignment.

Boasting a weight of just 19.8 lbs, its black anodized aluminum frame is virtually indestructible. Designed to accommodate smaller professional camcorders, like the Canon XH-G1 or Sony EX3, it really shines with compact HD cameras, including Red’s Scarlet, the Si-2K mini and the Canon DSLR 5D and 7D still cameras.

At the center of the mirror box is a piece of optically engineered, impurity-free, 50/50 beam-splitter glass, that’s been optimized for 45°. It’s fully encased in our specialty high-grade plastic, that’s both light-dampening and completely detachable. Finally, the entire 3D rig readily attaches to most professional tripod heads with a simple aluminum tripod adapter (¼-20 & 3/8- 16 screws).

The result is the World’s most affordable, professional stereoscopic beam-splitter ever produced. The BS Mini Rig makes 3D shooting both simple and amazingly precise. When combined with one of our real-time 3D viewing systems, a dual camera sync and genlock, cinematographers can capture extraordinary 3D images for a fraction of the cost of all other systems.

Additionally, the 3D Film Factory offers a complete line of 3D camera systems, including the 3D-BS Indie & Pro Rigs (beam-splitter), intended for larger broadcast cameras and camcorders, as well as, several inexpensive side-by-side rigs - the SS Indie & SS Pro Rigs. These dual cameras systems are less complex, but equally necessary for most 3D production situations.

About 3D Film Factory
Based in San Diego, California, the 3D Film Factory is both full service 3D production house and a 3D equipment manufacturer. More specifically, the company specializes in the design and marketing of production-ready, affordable 3D camera systems, while lending its expertise to a variety of high-quality 3D projects, from ‘stereographers for hire’, to hands-on 3D training, to complete 3D production through post.

To find out more, visit the company’s web site at: 3DFilmFactory.com

I am excited that it can be used with Red's Scarlet! Whenever I hear about equipment that could potentially be used by small independent filmmakers I try to get the word out. 3D isn't just for the studios! If you have used 3DFilmFactory's products / services or other related companies, go ahead and post them in comments. The more feedback the better.