The year 2023 has started with a bang for the video industry, with several new cameras and AI innovations making waves in the market. From Panasonic’s Lumix S5 IIX to Canon’s EOS R5C, from AI-powered editing to deep space communication, here are some of the highlights of the first two months of 2023.
Panasonic launched its Lumix S5 IIX camera in January, which is an improved version of the Lumix S5 that was released in 2020. The Lumix S5 IIX features a new firmware that enhances its video performance, such as:
- Support for 6K 30p and 5.9K 60p recording in 10-bit 4:2:0 HEVC
- Improved autofocus with eye, face, head, and body detection
- Dual native ISO for better low-light performance
- V-Log and V-Gamut for 14+ stops of dynamic range
- Anamorphic mode with 4:3 aspect ratio and de-squeeze function
- Timecode sync via Bluetooth with compatible devices
The Lumix S5 IIX also comes with a new accessory, the DMW-XLR2, which is a dual XLR microphone adapter that attaches to the camera’s hot shoe and provides phantom power, gain control, and audio monitoring. The Lumix S5 IIX is priced at $1,999 for the body only, and $2,299 with the 20-60mm kit lens.
Canon EOS R5C: A cinema-oriented version of the EOS R5
Canon announced its EOS R5C camera in February, which is a cinema-oriented version of the EOS R5 that was released in 2020. The EOS R5C features a similar 45-megapixel full-frame sensor and 8K video recording as the EOS R5, but with some key differences, such as:
- Active cooling system that prevents overheating and allows unlimited recording time
- Full-size HDMI port that supports 4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:2 output
- Coaxial power input that enables continuous power supply
- Timecode input/output via a 3.5mm jack
- Additional picture profiles such as C-Log 2 and C-Log 3
The EOS R5C also comes with a new accessory, the EVF-DC3, which is an electronic viewfinder that attaches to the camera’s hot shoe and provides a 3.69-million-dot resolution and 100% coverage. The EOS R5C is priced at $4,499 for the body only, and $5,499 with the 24-105mm kit lens.
AI in video production: Is it really coming for your job?
AI has been making strides in video production, with several applications that aim to simplify and automate various tasks, such as:
- Text-based editing: Adobe Premiere Pro introduced a new feature in January that allows users to edit videos using text commands. Users can type in instructions such as “cut to close-up of John” or “add transition between clips” and the software will execute them accordingly.
- Deepfake detection: A team of researchers from Stanford University and Adobe developed a new method in February that can detect deepfake videos with high accuracy. The method uses a neural network that analyzes the facial expressions and head movements of the subjects and compares them with a database of real videos.
- Laser communication: NASA successfully transmitted a 15-second video of a cat named Taters from deep space via laser in February. The video was sent from a spacecraft orbiting Mars to a ground station in California, using a technology called Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC). The technology aims to improve the speed and reliability of data transmission in future space missions.
AI is not only a tool for video production, but also a source of inspiration and creativity. For example, a group of filmmakers from FutureWorks used a bespoke 360° rig with nine RED Helium cameras to create realistic VFX for a Netflix series. The rig captured the driving dialogue scenes from multiple angles and perspectives, and the footage was processed by an AI algorithm that stitched them together seamlessly.
The first two months of 2023 have shown that the video industry is constantly evolving and innovating, with new cameras and AI technologies that offer new possibilities and challenges. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy in this exciting field.
