to / i lenses directly via four contacts in the lens mount as well as an external communication connector . The / i Technology provides the framework ; the extent of camera data made available is the choice of each camera manufacturer via its software and hardware .
By feeding this lens data to post-production teams , they can not only save time and cost but also ensure a better quality product because the digital data provided takes the guess work out of many processes – the VFX artists can therefore create effects and 3D models that are more accurate , with much greater speed .
Importantly , capturing lens metadata does not affect normal operations on set at all . Metadata recording takes place without having to monitor or manipulate anything . Data records to the digital or film recording medium , or to an SD card ; there are no specialists required on set and the DP needn ’ t worry about fussing with complicated accessories .
Les Zellan graduated from Carnegie-Mellon University with a master ’ s degree in Technical Theatre . He designed theatrical stage lighting systems before becoming sales director for FERCO , a film equipment rental company in New York City . He formed Zellan Enterprises in 1979 to promote and sell film equipment .
In 1998 , Zellan purchased the Cooke lens division from Taylor-Hobson . Under his ownership Cooke Optics has won many awards including the Academy Award ® of Merit , CINEC awards and a Primetime Emmy .
Since the announcement at NAB , three more / i partners have signalled their support to standardize the protocol . Zeiss is already delivering its version of / i , known as XD , in its new CP . 3 lenses , and Ambient and Pomfort have recently signed up , providing new avenues to move data from the set to post-production .
Cooke ’ s goal has always been to give / i to the wider industry , in order to provide film-makers and post-production teams around the world the crucial lens data they need , in a format that is universally recognized . The collaboration announced at NAB 2017 takes us a big step closer to achieving that goal , as we continue to pick up momentum for a common language ( not common hardware ) for metadata communications on set and in post .
60 • Broadcast Beat Magazine • www . broadcastbeat . com