Filming anamorphic footage adds a unique and cinematic touch to your videos, providing that iconic widescreen look and distinctive lens flares. While traditional anamorphic lenses can be quite expensive, there are affordable techniques you can use to achieve anamorphic visuals with the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K and 6K Pro. In this blog post, we'll explore some cost-effective methods to capture stunning anamorphic footage without breaking the bank.
Anamorphic Lens Adapters:
One of the most affordable ways to achieve an anamorphic look is by using anamorphic lens adapters. These adapters attach to your existing lenses and expand the horizontal field of view, resulting in a wider aspect ratio. Popular options include the SLR Magic Anamorphot (https://www.slrmagic.com) and the Sirui Anamorphic Lens Adapter (https://www.sirui.com/), which provide excellent image quality at a fraction of the cost of dedicated anamorphic lenses.
2. Dual Focus Technique:
The dual focus technique is crucial for achieving accurate focus when using anamorphic adapters. It involves focusing separately on the anamorphic adapter and the camera lens. By adjusting each focus element individually, you can achieve the desired anamorphic shallow depth of field and create beautiful bokeh effects. This technique requires careful attention to ensure both elements are properly focused and aligned.
3. Renting Anamorphic Lenses:
If you're looking for a higher-quality anamorphic experience, consider renting anamorphic lenses. Brands like Atlas Orion (https://atlaslensco.com), Vazen (www.vzlens.com), and SLR Magic (https://www.slrmagic.com offer dedicated anamorphic lenses that deliver stunning image quality and unique flares. These lenses come in various focal lengths and are available in EF mount, compatible with the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K and 6K Pro. Renting lenses allows you to access professional-grade equipment without the need for a significant upfront investment.
Here are a few reputable rental platforms where you can find anamorphic lenses:
LensProToGo: www.lensprotogo.com
BorrowLenses: www.borrowlenses.com
ShareGrid: www.sharegrid.com
LensRentals: www.lensrentals.com
Renting lenses gives you the flexibility to experiment with different focal lengths and characteristics, allowing you to achieve the desired anamorphic look for your specific project.
4. Aspect Ratio in Post-Production:
While shooting, you can set your Blackmagic camera (Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K or 6K Pro) to record in a standard aspect ratio (such as 16:9) and then adjust the aspect ratio in post-production. By cropping the footage horizontally, you can achieve the desired anamorphic widescreen look without the need for additional equipment. Blackmagic cameras provide flexibility in post-production, allowing you to experiment with different aspect ratios to find the one that suits your vision.
Power on your Blackmagic camera (e.g., Pocket Cinema Camera 6K or 6K Pro) and access the camera menu.
Navigate to the "Settings" or "Setup" section in the menu.
Look for the "Aspect Ratio" or "Image Format" option. Consult the camera's manual for the exact location of this setting, as it may vary based on the camera model and firmware version.
Select the desired aspect ratio option from the available choices. Common options include 16:9, 2.39:1, 2.35:1, or any custom aspect ratio you prefer.
Save the changes and exit the menu.
To enable markers on the display, navigate to the "Display" or "Monitor" section in the camera menu.
Look for the "Markers" or "Frame Guides" option. Again, refer to the camera's manual for the precise location of this setting.
Enable the markers and select the desired marker type (e.g., center crosshair, safe area markers).
Adjust the marker position and size if needed, depending on your framing requirements.
Save the changes and exit the menu.
By following these steps, you can adjust the aspect ratio and enable markers on your Blackmagic camera to enhance your post-production flexibility and ensure precise framing. For detailed instructions tailored to your specific camera model, it is recommended to refer to the camera's manual.
5. Software Plugins for Flares and Bokeh
Anamorphic lenses are renowned for their unique lens flares and oval-shaped bokeh. To replicate these effects, you can use software plugins like Red Giant's Universe (www.redgiant.com) or Lens Distortions (https://lensdistortions.com) in your post-production workflow. These plugins provide customizable lens flare and bokeh effects that you can apply to your footage. Experiment with different presets and adjust the parameters to achieve the desired look and enhance the cinematic feel of your anamorphic footage.
Conclusion:
With the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K and 6K Pro, along with affordable anamorphic lens adapters, the dual focus technique, lens rentals, and software plugins, you can dive into the world of anamorphic filmmaking without straining your budget. By utilizing these techniques, you'll be able to capture stunning anamorphic footage, complete with the unique lens flares and widescreen aesthetic that make your videos stand out. Embrace the creative possibilities of anamorphic filmmaking and elevate your visuals to new cinematic heights.