The European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) is an association of over 50 photo, sound, and multimedia magazines across Europe, and it’s been offering up awards for the best in audio and video products for over 40 years. The awards place an emphasis on consumer products, but there are categories for pro and prosumer; now that the gap between professional and consumer-level tech is increasingly narrowed, their choices seem more relevant than ever.
One of 2017’s most anticipated cameras—the Panasonic GH5—nabbed a spot, as did a Tamron lens, which we’ve called “a cheaper alternative without the sacrifice.” The products in this year’s lineup of most useful to indie filmmakers (and EISA’s words about them) are listed below.
The Sony α9 is a groundbreaking mirrorless camera that in many ways surpasses traditional DSLR rivals. Thanks to an innovative design, the 24.2 million pixel full-frame image sensor captures up to 20 frames per second in full resolution with no EVF blackout and offers completely silent, vibration-free shooting at up to 1/32,000th second. The new super-fast autofocus system, with 693 phase detection AF points covering 93% of the image area, ensures that even fast-moving subjects are in focus. The 5-axis image stabilization allows a 5-step slower shutter speed. The oversampling process and full-frame pixel read-out result in excellent 4K movie quality.
The Panasonic DC-GH5 focuses all the brand’s know-how in both photo and video. The body is well balanced, weather resistant and has an excellent electronic viewfinder. With a 20.3 million pixel Four Thirds sensor it delivers good picture quality up to ISO 3200, with excellent autofocus and internal stabilzation. In video it provides an excellent compromise between image quality, features and price and allows recording up to 4K/60p 4:2:2 10-bit onto the memory card without recording time limitation. With high-end features such as a high-speed 6K Photo mode, slow motion, automatic focus transition, Vlog and an XLR module for sound recording, the GH5 offers endless possibilities for creative video production.
Best Professional Compact System Camera Lens:
Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS
The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS is an impressive lens covering the most popular angles for sports and action photography. Sharpness is extremely high and evenly distributed with almost no visible fall-off towards the edges. Sharpness is retained across the zoom range, even with tele-converters. It features a floating focusing system, implemented in an α zoom lens for the first time, that contributes to an impressive minimum focusing distance of merely 0.96m. The 11 rounded aperture blades ensure a beautiful bokeh, while the autofocus speed is super quick, in particular with the very fast Sony α9. Finally, the FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS is built for heavy use under all weather conditions.
Best Professional DSLR Lens:
Canon EF 16-35mm F2.8L III USM
Credit: Canon
The Canon EF 16-35mm F2.8L III USM has been long awaited by many professional photographers and exceeds expectations. It’s better built than its predecessor and gives astounding sharpness over the entire image, even at its full opening of F2.8. At 16mm it actually outperforms many ultra-wide-angle prime lenses. Distortion is low, while the anti-reflective coating very effectively reduces ghosting and flare. The Canon EF 16-35mm F2.8L III USM is built for everyday professional use and delivers an image quality that will satisfy even the most demanding users.
Which cameras or lenses would you award for 2017? Let us know in the comments.
I've been on a kick watching a certain director's movies in order, over the course of a few weeks. Recently, I completed the filmography of Tim Burton, and it was a blast.
Burton is so whimsical and also so macabre. His movies span all sorts of different emotions and ideas, and even sizes. There's so much to learn from him and his movies.
Here are 10 directing lessons we can draw from his work, along with examples from his films.
Let's dive in.
10 Directing Lessons You Can Get From Tim Burton
1. Embrace the Outsider Perspective
Tim Burton's films often celebrate characters on the fringe of society. They are misfits, dreamers, and those who see the world differently. Those characterizations really pull the audience in and get us to care in fun ways.
Example: Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice, Lydia Deetz
2. Visual Storytelling is Paramount
I can't tell you how often I'm trying to encourage people to amp up their visual storytelling. Burton's signature style is as important as his written words. Pay attention to set design, lighting, costumes, and camera angles to create mood and atmosphere.
Example: The gothic cityscape of Gotham in Batman, the twisted trees and landscapes of Sleepy Hollow, the vibrant underworld in The Nightmare Before Christmas.
3. Don't Shy Away from the Dark and Whimsical
Burton blends the macabre with humor and a sense of childlike wonder. This contrast is essential to his unique style and also in bringing in outsiders. He has an audience he plays to, but he finds universal themes that pull us all in.
Example: The darkly funny dance sequence in Beetlejuice, the mix of horror and festivity in The Nightmare Before Christmas.
4. Music is Your Ally
Spend more time with the music in your films. Burton frequently collaborates with Danny Elfman, and music drives the emotional core of many of his stories. Think about how music can enhance the atmosphere and impact of your work.
Example: The iconic scores of Edward Scissorhands, Batman, and Corpse Bride.
5. Find the Beauty in the Strange
Burton challenges traditional notions of beauty. He finds compelling visuals in the grotesque, the odd, and the decayed. What do you see differently than the rest of the world? What's inside you that you think you need to share? Get it out and onto film.
Example: The character design of Jack Skellington, the twisted suburbia of Edward Scissorhands.
6. Practical Effects Can Be Magic
Nothing looks better than a practical set or effect. While Burton embraces technology, he often favors practical effects when possible. And it makes a difference when buying into the worlds. You feel like you're in something he created, something personal.
Example: The stop-motion animation of The Nightmare Before Christmas and Corpse Bride, the elaborate makeup and prosthetics of Beetlejuice.
7. Collaborate with a Recurring Ensemble
Work with your friends. Find the people you can trust, who have your back, and share your vision. Burton works with actors like Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, and Winona Ryder repeatedly. This builds a sense of familiarity and shorthand.
There's often a deeply personal element to Burton's films, drawing from his childhood and unique perspective on the world. You have a voice, use it.
Example:Edward Scissorhands reflecting suburban isolation, themes of loss and longing in Big Fish.
9. Don't Underestimate Your Audience
One thing I always appreciate about Burton is that he trusts the audience implicitly. And he's okay with challenging them. Burton crafts films that appeal to both children and adults. He doesn't shy away from darkness or mature themes.
Examples: The subtle social commentary within Edward Scissorhands, the complex exploration of grief in Frankenweenie.
10. Never Lose Your Sense of Play
Even at their darkest, Burton's films retain a sense of playfulness and mischievous humor. They are so much fun and you can tell were fun to make. It's important never to forget that this is an art form that is inherently playful and bold. So keep experimenting and playing.
Example: The ghoulish gags in Beetlejuice, the exuberant musical numbers of The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Tim Burton is one of the greatest directors of all time. He's an auteur with a keen eye for cinema and a great sense for spectacle.
Hopefully, these lessons help inspire you to find your own unique voice.
Credit: Canon
