2007Cameras (Film/Video/HD) forum
High-speed cameras capable of 1000fps and above for film and video production
19 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.
What the thread found
- The Phantom HD camera offers high sensitivity, resolution, dynamic range, and can shoot in excess of 1000fps at 1920x1080 HD resolution when equipped with CineMag flash memory packs for untethered operation.
- The Phantom HD weighs approximately 12 pounds, uses a 24-volt power system drawing about 4 amps with CineMag attached, and can hold up to 132 minutes of footage when played back at 24fps.
- The Phantom HD can be controlled via on-camera buttons and menu system without tethering after initial parameter setup, making it suitable for Steadicam and handheld use.
- Real-time HD-SDI output from the Phantom allows direct recording to external HD recorders without rendering delays, enabling wireless untethered operation.
- The Cine Speedcam offers superior download and playback software compared to the Phantom, though the Phantom provides approximately one stop more depth of field and superior light sensitivity.
- The Cine Speedcam includes a built-in hard disk that auto-saves 4098 frames at maximum resolution and has internal battery power for 15-20 minutes of operation without external cables.
- Flicker from smaller tungsten lamps under 5kW and HMI lights under 4kW can appear in high-speed footage regardless of camera brand, as the flicker originates from the lamps rather than the camera.
- When shooting at 1000fps, motion appears significantly smoother than at standard frame rates, which may reduce the necessity for Steadicam support depending on the specific shot.
- The Phantom HD requires resetting the black balance when frame rate, shutter angle, or resolution parameters change, which takes under 10 seconds and must be done with the lens capped.
- The Phantom HD can output video in standard definition through a downconverter such as an AJA HD10MD for compatibility with SD workflows.
Depends on
- The discussion mentions the Phantom as the primary focus with limited independent verification of other cameras.
- Flicker performance with lighting under minimum specifications remains an ongoing concern across all high-speed camera types.
- The Cine Speedcam comparison is based on a single shootout; broader performance variations under different conditions are not detailed.
- No information provided about rental costs, availability, or long-term reliability performance.
- The thread does not address behavior at frame rates significantly higher than 1000fps or lower resolution trade-offs.