American Cinematographer - November 2010 - 90

snugly around the lens while leaving room at the back so users can continue shooting regardless of the weather conditions. The Camera Duck is made with waterproof ripstop nylon capable of protecting cameras from rain, snow, sand, sun, salt spray and other adverse environmental elements. Designed to maintain a constant camera temperature, the Camera Duck combats condensation and fogging on the lens. Built-in pockets on the inside of the Camera Duck can hold up to four air-activated heat packs, similar to those used to keep hands and feet warm in extremely cold weather; these non-toxic, odorless, disposable heat packs provide up to 24 hours of gentle heat, keeping the camera warm even in below-freezing temperatures. “The low-temperature specification on almost all cameras is 32°F, which means cameras fail at or below that temperature,” says Loren Alan, inventor of the Camera Duck. “Camera batteries dramatically lose power in cold temperatures. But when using the heat packs, the Camera Duck protection system surrounds your camera with constant warmth, keeping the camera well above the camera manufacturer’s minimum temperature specifications, at least 20 to 30 degrees warmer than the outside temperature, and ensuring continued optimum performance. When users are no longer shooting, they can use the drawstring cord lock to keep in the warmth.” Camera Ducks are available in a variety of modes. For photographers, there is the standard Camera Duck, which can be used with SLRs and camcorders, and users can also apply a number of different layers to better suit whatever weather conditions they might encounter. The Downpour Cordura Camera Duck, an outer shell that can be used over the standard Duck, is ideal for heavy rain and cold down to about -10°F. Additionally, the Polar consists of three layers of protection: a nylon inner shell
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(the standard Camera Duck), a Thinsulate insulated cover and a Cordura outer shell; the Polar can be used in -30°F temperatures. For videographers, a VEX Broadcast model is specifically designed for Sony’s line of EX video cameras. Unlike the other models, it features five internal pockets to strategically place heat packets for maximum effect. The VEX Broadcast also provides a Polar version, similar to the SLR layered protection system. The standard Camera Duck weighs only 1.5 ounces; the Polar Thinsulate insulated cover weighs only 4.5 ounces. All Camera Ducks and their additional layers can be folded to conveniently fit into small compartments in backpacks or camera bags. For additional information, visit www.internationalsupplies.com. Tiffen Expands Line The Tiffen Company has added two diffusion filters to its award-winning optical filter line: Soft/FX Black Pro-Mist and Black Glimmer Diffusion/FX. The Soft/FX Black Pro-Mist is a combination of the existing Soft/FX filter and Black Pro-Mist filter. The Soft/FX 1⁄2 is maintained throughout with a range of Black Pro-Mist densities, adding an ethereal mood to images. The filter provides a wide range of diffusion while toning down excessive sharpness and creating a soft pastel effect. Additionally, this filter combination reveals more shadow detail and produces a dreamy glow to subjects with enhanced but controlled halation. The Black Glimmer Diffusion/FX is a unique filter that cannot be reproduced by any combination of diffusion filters. Using the same advanced diffusion filter technology as the Digital Diffusion/FX, this filter is ideal for high-definition cameras and produces enhanced beauty while maintaining the richness of colors and blacks. The filter maintains sharpness and softens detail in a unique manner, brightens all skin tones and adds a mild glow and silky transition to highlights. These filters are available in 4"x4" and 4"x5.650", with additional motionpicture sizes available upon request. For more information, visit www.tiffen.com.

Film School in a Box Filmmaker in a Box is a 10-DVD set offering a comprehensive look behind the scenes of an independent micro-budget feature from prep through post. Built around the independent feature 2 Million

Stupid Women , directed by Jamie N eese, Filmmaker in a Box provides more than 17 hours of intensive, candid interviews and much more. The DVD set is divided into Preproduction, Production and Postproduction sections, which are subdivided into 108 individual modules. Within those sections are detailed segments on subjects such as scripting, financing, casting, contracts, shooting schedule, obtaining permits (or not), and the complete post process, complemented by behind-the-scenes video of production meetings and the actual shoot, as well as interviews with key crew. Viewers can watch the 10 DVDs in order or use the comprehensive index to access a particular subject. An accompanying CD-ROM contains dozens of documents from the 2 Million Stupid Women production, which can be used as templates for paperwork such as contracts, releases, call sheets and various reports. Additionally, 2 Million Stupid Women is included on its own DVD. For additional information, visit www.filmmakerinabox.com. Practical Effects from Reel EFX Reel EFX has introduced the RE4 Fan, designed for professional studio, stage and location applications requiring maximum wind at the lowest possible noise level. The RE4 boasts advanced aerodynamics; a 2-horsepower, three-phase motor; and a sophisticated solid-state drive, which combine to create wind in excess of 33 mph at 1 meter. Additionally, a rotary

American Cinematographer

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American Cinematographer - November, 2010

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of American Cinematographer - November, 2010