The Atomos Samurai Blade, Ninja Blade, Shogun and Ninja Assassin are receiving the free firmware treatment with a new operating system called AtomHDR scheduled for release in May. Atomos also adds the Shogun Inferno to their line of monitor / recorders. Inferno has all the features of the previous Flame, but adds some key things for video professionals like high frame-rate recording and quad SDI connections.
Atomos are also adding ST2084 PQ in/out for HDR & new WFM guides to the Shogun Flame & Ninja Flame with a new 7.1 OS. To support all this new HDR tech, they've got a new line of coiled 4k 60p HDMI cables with HDMI 2.0 speed and integration with the popular X-Rite i1Display Pro to help combat color drift.
Atomos Shogun Inferno — $1,995
- High quality 4K 60p and HD 240p ProRes and DNxHR recording (from either a video or Raw signal)
- 10-bit monitor (minimizes color banding)
- 7” 1500nit brightness; For Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) shooting ramp the brightness slider up to 1500 nit for hood-free outdoor monitoring.
- Raw to Raw CDNG recording up to 4K DCI/UHD 30p or 2K/HD 120p.
- Quad SDI lets you input from cameras with 1.5/3/6/12G SDI outputs without converters.
- AtomHDR; AtomHDR lets you shoot with the high brightness range of your camera’s Log profile and preview the final, vibrant post production HDR result.
- 4K 60p; Record and play out pristine ProRes / DNxHR in 4K resolution and 24/25/30/50/60p frame rates.
- Raw recording from Sony FS7/ FS700 and Canon C300MKII/C500 over SDI (ProRes, DNxHR or CDNG)
- Apple ProRes & AVID DNxHR recording; Record to visually lossless Apple ProRes or AVID DNxHD in Rec709 or Log formats as an edit friendly, visually lossless industry benchmark independent of the camera brand used.
- PQ in/out; Take PQ out into larger HDR compatible screens or feed HDR from your NLE into the PQ input for HDR grading using the Inferno.
- PQ (ST-2084) input that allows you to use Inferno as a grading monitor in Post.
- PQ (ST-2084) output standard HDR to compatible TVs and monitors.
- 3D LUT’s (.cube) viewable in full or half mode (output it to a monitor or record into the footage
- Continuous power (when one battery dies it automatically goes to the next)
- Shipping now
No Film School's complete coverage of NAB 2016 is brought to you by My RØDE Reel, Shutterstock, and Blackmagic Design.
More of No Film School's coverage from the NAB showroom floor:
10 Storytelling and Directing Tips Inspired by Akira Kurosawa
Learn from one of the greatest directors of all time.
In the pantheon of cinematic greats, Akira Kurosawa stands as a towering figure, a master storyteller whose influence transcends time and borders. His works, characterized by their epic narratives, exquisite visuals, and emotional depth, continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.
Kurosawa's unique approach to directing and storytelling has become a subject of study and admiration. As we explore the wisdom distilled from his illustrious career, we find timeless lessons that go beyond the confines of genre and culture. These principles serve not only as a blueprint for aspiring directors but also as a testament to Kurosawa's enduring legacy in the art of filmmaking.
The Humanistic Cinema of Akira Kurosawawww.youtube.com
1. Trust Your Gut
'Rashomon'
Credit: Everett Collection
Kurosawa emphasized the importance of a director's intuition. This suggests that when faced with creative decisions, it’s often valuable to listen to your gut feeling. This could mean choosing an unconventional shot or narrative direction that feels right, even if it challenges traditional methods or the opinions of collaborators.
2. Study The Masters
Akira Kurosawa working with a cinema camera on the set of
Credit: BFI
By examining the works of great directors, one can learn various aspects of filmmaking, such as shot composition, pacing, and storytelling.
Kurosawa himself was influenced by filmmakers like John Ford and Jean Renoir and believed in the value of understanding their techniques to refine his own work.
3. Collaborate With Your Actors
Credit: BFI
Actors bring characters to life, and Kurosawa believed in giving them space for interpretation. This includes working closely with them, understanding their perspective, and allowing them to bring their own creativity to their roles, which can result in more authentic and compelling performances.
4. Planning is Paramount
Akira Kurosawa's manual splicing
Credit:
Detailed planning and storyboarding were key to Kurosawa’s approach. He would often sketch out every shot before filming.
This level of preparation ensures that every visual element serves the story and can help in executing complex scenes more efficiently.
5. It's all in the Details
Akira Kurosawa on the set of ‘Yojimbo’
Credit: Film Magazine
In Kurosawa’s view, the minutiae of a film—such as the costumes, set design, and props—were crucial in creating a believable world.
Attention to these details helps to immerse the audience and can subtly enhance the storytelling.
6. It's Okay to be Silent
'Throne of Blood'
Credit: Toho
Silence can be as powerful as dialogue or music. Kurosawa harnessed silence to build suspense and convey emotion, using it to draw the audience in and focus their attention on the visual storytelling.
7. Learn From Mistakes
'High and Low'
Credit: Toho
Kurosawa was not afraid to recognize his own mistakes and saw them as learning opportunities. This principle encourages a mindset of continuous improvement and resilience in the creative process.
8. Keep a Handle on Emerging Technology
'The Hidden Fortress'
Credit: Toho
Always curious about the latest developments, Kurosawa integrated new technologies into his filmmaking. This openness to innovation can lead to new ways of storytelling and can give a unique aesthetic to films.
9. Maintain Your Vision
'Dreams'
Credit: Warner Bros.
A director must have a clear vision for the film and remain true to it throughout the process. This can sometimes mean resisting studio pressure or popular trends to create a work that is authentic and personal.
10. Let Passion Guide You
'Seven Samurai'
Credit: Toho
Kurosawa’s passion for filmmaking was evident in his dedication to his craft. This principle suggests that great art comes from a place of deep commitment and enthusiasm, and that passion is infectious, often inspiring the entire cast and crew to strive for excellence.
In honoring Kuroswas's legacy, we continue the quest for storytelling that resonates, transforms, and endures. For filmmakers and storytellers looking to craft their own masterpieces, let Kurosawa's spirit guide your cinematic adventures.
May your films be as bold, as beautiful, and as profoundly human as the ones he left us.
Now go make something.