Cinefade VariND helps maintain a safe distance on film set in the age of covid-19

The Cinefade VariND makes it easier for ACs to keep their distance to the camera operator and actors, in addition to avoiding unnecessary contact with the camera and accessories.

Productions in the US and Europe are slowly returning to work albeit with new regulations and requirements to avoid the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Maintaining physical distance to other crew members and actors, as well as keeping direct contact with gear to a minimum is going to be challenging but may become the ‘new normal’ on set and productions are adapting to accommodate.

The cmotion cPro wireless lens control system controls focus, iris and zoom and is also able to adjust the motorised variable ND filter from a safe distance (very safe max distance of 1000m). When shooting in constantly changing lighting conditions, the Camera Assistant would usually have to change traditional ND filters multiple times per day, which brings them physically close to the talent in front of the camera and to the camera operator, increasing their risk factor of being exposed to the virus.

Physically touching and handling the filters, matte box and cases between different members of the camera department also allows the virus to spread more easily.

Instead, the AC can use the cPro hand unit’s user buttons to change the ND value in a third of a stop or use the thumbwheel/joystick to dynamically dial-in a precise value. Not only does this keep them at a safe distance from crew and actors but also offers the DP added flexibility when exposing a scene.

The Cinefade VariND consists of a motorised polarising filter and a static polarising filter, which can be separated, enabling RotaPola mode. In RotaPola mode the Motorised Polariser can vary the polarising angle over 180 degrees, offering complete control over reflections, blue skies etc. from a safe distance with a very fast and simple setup process.

Having a remotely controlled, dynamically adjustable ND filter also enables complex interior-to-exterior transition shots to be accomplished with ease. Simply set the ND values for the interior and for the exterior lighting conditions and use the thumbwheel or joystick to gradually transition between the two values.

DP Asselin Gauthier managed to hide the transition with a pan to make it even more seamless in a music video for ‘Form’ where the camera travelled from a dimly-lit police station into bright sunlight.

We have introduced more rigorous cleaning methods of our hire kits and when renting the Cinefade system directly through us you can rest assured that the kit was thoroughly disinfected before and after every rental. We would love to hear how you are coping with the new shooting environment and how you are adapting your methods. Leave a comment or get in touch via email and social media.