what does 3D HD really mean for content producers
 

Probably like a lot of people producing HD content on this forum, I always considered 3d a bit of a gimmick. Recently however, there seems to be a fair amount of news regarding 3D and more recently, regarding 3D HD. I'm curious to know what other producers are thinking about this, especially those who have recently upgraded to HD and now face the possibility of having to yet acquire more gear. How concerned should I be about the 3D phenomena?

Season greetings to all

There is a separate forum for Stereoscopic production and this post would probably be more appropriate there.

So far I have produced 2 big budget 3D corporate videos and I am currently working on a series of 6 films for a blue chip company several of which will be 3D. I have also produced several 3D shorts and am in post on an hour long 3D weather documentary. In the UK Sky TV are to start a 3D channel next year so it's big news.
Certainly 3D looks to become more common, but even though I really enjoy the challenges that working in 3D presents I just can't see it becoming main stream until someone comes up with a viewing system that works properly without glasses or other compromises.

Until then I think it will be reserved for special features and movies, but there are certainly opportunities to be had producing 3D programmes. If you don't want to do 3D then I wouldn't worry too much about it at this stage. If you fancy some new challenges and learning a new set of skills then go for it. It's not cheap to do well though. Cameras must run in sync and be perfectly matched and aligned. Lenses must match and for many shots you need to use complex beam splitter mirror rigs to get the cameras close enough together. Much of the equipment needed to work in 3D is designed and fabricated in-house or by small specialist firms. You can't simply go out and buy a professional level 3D shooting kit off the shelf.