ARRI AMIRA: the New Documentary-Style Camera

(20/09/2013) ARRI proudly introduced AMIRA, a versatile documentary-style camera that combines exceptional image quality and affordable CFast 2.0 workflows with an ergonomic design optimized for single-operator use and extended shoulder-mounted operation. Ready to pick up and shoot straight out of the camera bag, AMIRA is hardy enough to take anywhere and features in-camera grading with preloaded looks based on 3D LUTs, as well as 200 fps slow motion.

Continuing the ARRI tradition

Throughout its long history ARRI has offered film and program makers a range of diverse cameras suited to different production tasks; common to them all, however, has been the promise of creative liberation through functional, user-friendly design. AMIRA represents a seamless continuation of this tradition. It will sit alongside other camera offerings from ARRI, perfectly answering the needs of certain types of camera professional and certain types of production.

ALEXA image quality up to 200 fps

AMIRA features the same sensor and exceptional image quality as the ARRI ALEXA, recording superior HD 1080 or 2K pictures that are suitable for any distribution format. With a dynamic range of more than 14 stops, low noise levels, subtle highlight handling, natural color rendering, breathtaking skin tones and speeds of up to 200 fps, AMIRA will deliver beautiful, life-like images in any situation.

AMIRA records Rec 709 or Log C images using ProRes LT, 422, 422HQ or 444 codecs. By recording to in-camera CFast 2.0 flash memory cards with super-quick data rates, the route into postproduction is made as simple as possible. CFast 2.0 is an open format, easily accessible to anyone and delivering a fantastic price-performance ratio through incredible transfer speeds, long recording times and compatibility with standard IT tools. Costs per GB are brought right down and higher-than-broadcast-quality image pipelines are made available even to low budget productions.

Single-user ergonomics and perfect shoulder balance

AMIRA boots up quickly and can be used straight out of the bag by a single user, with no setting up, no rigging and no delays. In the time it takes to lift the camera to an operator's shoulder, it will be ready to record, making AMIRA perfect for run-and-gun' shoots where the action is unpredictable and the camerawork responsive. Integrated, motorized ND filters as well as zebra and false color tools aid exposure control, while an advanced peaking function makes accurate focusing easy and swift.

Access to switches and configurable user buttons is quick and intuitive. An innovative multi-viewfinder makes life even easier for the single user by combining a high resolution OLED eyepiece with a fold-away LCD monitor that displays a live image when the eyepiece is not in use and also provides full access to camera functions, without AMIRA having to be removed from the operator's shoulder. Flexible multi-channel audio options are accessed from the camera right side, again minimizing disturbance to the operator.

Cost-efficient in-camera grading

In today's environment of cut budgets and shortened schedules, many television productions do not have the luxury of spending time finessing a look in postproduction. AMIRA is unique in that it comes with a number of preloaded 3D LUT-based looks that can be applied on set during the shoot. Alternatively, productions can custom-build their own 3D LUTs in external grading systems, load them into the camera during prep, and even modify them in-camera while filming. With 3D LUTs, literally any look that can be imagined can be created, giving cinematographers and directors a greater degree of creative control on fast-moving productions, while keeping postproduction costs down for producers.

ARRI product quality rugged and reliable

Like all ARRI products, AMIRA is designed to be a safe, long term investment and built to withstand the rigors of life on a professional set. With a solid internal skeleton that guarantees camera and lens stability, AMIRA is a highly durable product constructed of the strongest possible materials. Sealed electronics provide top-level protection against humidity and dust, while an integrated thermal core results in highly efficient cooling. Productions can take AMIRA anywhere, from jungles and deserts to snow-capped mountain tops, sure in the knowledge that it will not let them down.

About ARRI:

With headquarters located in Munich, Germany, Arnold and Richter Cine Technik (A&R) was founded in 1917 and is the worlds largest manufacturer and distributor of motion picture camera, digital intermediate (DI) and lighting equipment. The ARRI Group comprises a global network of subsidiaries, agents and representatives that covers every facet of the film industry: design; engineering; production; equipment rental; turnkey lighting solutions; postproduction; laboratory services; visual effects; and film sales. Manufactured products include the ubiquitous ALEXA digital camera system; Master Anamorphic lenses; L-Series LED and M-Series HMI lights; Pro Camera Accessories; and ARRISCAN archive technologies. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has recognized ARRI's engineers and their technical contributions with 18 Scientific and Engineering Awards.

LINK:	http://www.live-production.tv/news/products/arri-amira-new-documentary...
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