mini35 vs. DigiPrimes
 

First off, I have never used either.

I am lensing a spot next month and we are most likely using the XDCAM HD, on my recommendation as we need overcrank capabilities as well as the fact that the XDCAM format is pretty amazing.

This is a 1/2 inch camera but I can rent the adapter for use with Zeiss DigiPrimes. (I am in Boston, renting lenses from Boston Camera). They also have a mini35 for 2/3" cameras but I don't know if it will work with the XDCAM and the lens adapter....haven't asked yet.

What kind of DOF differences will I see between using the DigiPrimes wide open (probably the 10, 20, and 40) and equivalent focal length primes with the mini35?

Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.

doesn't that adapter have a focal mag factor? So a 25mm 2/3 prime will really give you a focal eqv. of about 45mm ?? other than that it should work.

The Digiprimes are intended to be used with 2/3" 3 CCD cameras with an optical block. They have correction to for the block being there, so you can't use them on single sensor cameras or Mini 35 adapters. Also, you won't get full frame 35mm coverage on the GC with the Digiprimes. The chances are you can rent 35mm film lenses for a lower price than the Digiprimes.

I suspect the adapter is a mechanical one that allows the Digiprimes, which have a B4 mount to fit the Sony 1/2 mount.

You can work out angle of view here:
http://www.panavision.co.nz/main/kba...enseqvform.asp

DOF here:
http://www.panavision.com.au/Information/DOFCalc.htm

the 1/2 XDCAM is a ccd imager. and Sony makes a mech B4 adapter for any B4 lens. so you can put Digi primes on that camera. However focal length would be longer.

You say your other option is a mini 35 adapter mondifed to fit on this camera? and if so you would be using film primes anyway correct?

Your not going to use both the Digiprimes and the mini 35 together correct?

Your not going to use both the Digiprimes and the mini 35 together correct?[/QUOTE]


No the question is that I am considering 2 issues:

1 is XDCAM with the DigiPrimes using the mechanical adapter for 1/2" to 2/3" lenses.

2. XDCAM with the mini35 and probably Superspeed primes or whatever I can get from Boston camera.

If I am shooting with the DigiPrimes wide open do they lend a wider DOF than normal EFP lenses, or is it just that they are super high quality, sharp lenses. Basically I am (like everyone) looking for shallow DOF so I assume the mini35 is the way to go, but if the DigiPrimes are good for that than I would probably find the setup easier.

Ben,

P+S now makes a version of the Pro-35 for the 1/2" inch mount which would allow for using any 2/3" inch prime lens such as Zeiss or Cooke S4's. It's brand new so don't expect anyone to have it for rent, but it's available.

Digiprimes will not gain you shallower DOF. If you use the 14mm digiprime, it will be the same as setting your XDCAM stock zoom lens at 14mm, except it will of course be cleaner, etc etc.

Only the Pro35 will give you shallower DOF because you will then be using longer focal lengths to get the same FOV you would with the stock zoom.

Be aware that some of the grain of the Pro35 gets resolved by the camera, so it will be slightly lower resolution (but probably not low enough to make you change your mind about it). For the same reason, be careful about using gain. If you're final deliverable is SD, you can get away with a lot. But if it's HD, be careful. Extra grain is what brings MPEG2 to it's knees, so watch out.