Panasonic's new 3D Video Camera

At CES 2010, Panasonic slated the release of its professional and accessible 3D video camera for Fall 2010. Before this camera, in order to achieve the illusion of depth, 3D filmmakers would place two separate cameras 6.5cm apart (the approximate distance between the human eyes). Adjustments to the cameras have to be infinitely precise, and are usually controlled by an external computer or video controller. The rig is unwieldily, expensive to set up, and a challenge in post production. However, the new lightweight Panasonic P2 HD 3D camera shoots with dual side-by-side lenses that can be manipulated using the camera's own controls, and will allow for a far simpler post workflow. Although, it's not exactly at consumer prices yet; the suggested retail price is $21,000, and it's strictly made-to-order.

There is much debate on whether or not the 3D trend in Hollywood right now is here to stay. The 3D technology currently exists for home televisions sets, and earlier this month it was announced that there will even be an exclusively 3D channel (brought to us by Discovery, iMax and Sony). I wonder, will this technology soon extend to other avenues of video production, such as web? The fact that viewers need to wear special 3D glasses may just keep the technology in the gimmick realm, but it's definitely something worth watching.

3D Television sets were a big buzz at CES 2009, and now at CES 2010, some companies released their work to get rid of those pesky glasses with autostereoscopic technology.