Unraveling the Mysteries of Expensive and Sizeable TV Cameras in 2020
The evolution of camera technology has been marked by a significant reduction in the size and cost of consumer-grade cameras. However, why are TV studio cameras still huge and expensive even in 2020? This article dives into the detailed reasons behind this phenomenon.
Legacy of Lens Technology
It is a common misconception that the bulk of a TV studio camera comes from the lens. While lenses play a crucial role, they have not seen substantial advancements over the past 40 years. Their size is dictated by well-known laws of physics, such as zoom ratio, camera sensor size, and light collection capacity. This consistency in lens technology is a major contributing factor to the size and cost of professional broadcast cameras.
Emerging Display Technologies
Viewfinders, on the other hand, have seen significant evolution. From monochrome to colour, and from CRT to flat panel LCD or LCoS displays, the screen size has grown to accommodate changes in aspect ratios and to enhance focus and depth of field analysis for HD and UHD shooting. These advancements have made the viewfinders more user-friendly and precise, but they do not significantly impact the overall size and cost of the camera.
Complex Camera Design
The internal arrangement of sensors in a professional broadcast camera is meticulously designed, with carefully aligned RGB sensors using filters instead of the single sensor found in handheld cameras. This complex optical block takes up the majority of space in studio cameras. Additionally, external controls for zoom and focus, as well as an external camera control unit to manage exposure and colour balance, add to the bulk and expenditure. These components are crucial for professional broadcasting, ensuring high-quality output and live production necessities.
Electronics and Cooling Requirements
Professional broadcast cameras are packed with electronics. Particularly, cameras relying on CCD sensors often require a cooling fan and temperature sensors to maintain optimal performance. However, advancements in CMOS camera design have allowed for more efficient and temperature-stable devices to be developed. Yet, these sophisticated components add to the overall complexity and cost of the camera.
High-Volume Production and Reluctant Changes
Another reason for the continued use of large, expensive TV studio cameras is the relatively low production volume compared to handheld cameras. Top brands dedicate extensive design and engineering efforts to ensure these cameras meet the high standards required for broadcast quality video. The high cost reflects not only the technological advancements but also the necessity for reliability under intense production schedules. It is due to these factors that TV studios are less likely to change their equipment frequently, maintaining the same models for extended periods.
Economic Considerations of High-Quality Equipment
Broadcast quality video equipment is extremely expensive, with airtime being similarly costly. Therefore, substandard equipment is not tolerated in the industry. A prime example is the high cost of professional-grade equipment, such as Arriflex movie cameras and millions of dollars worth of lenses. These investments are substantial and often prioritize over other high-value items like real estate.
The industry recognizes the value in maintaining top-of-the-line equipment, as seen in the scenario where a producer opted for a lens rental over purchasing a waterfront condo. Such decisions highlight the importance of superior video quality and the willingness to invest in high-end tools, despite the high cost.
Conclusion: The size and cost of TV studio cameras are influenced by various factors, including legacy lens technology, complex internal designs, and the high standards of broadcast quality. Understanding these aspects can help professionals better appreciate the necessity and cost of high-end equipment in the industry.