Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) cameras are becoming increasingly popular for video production. They offer a unique and dynamic way to capture footage that traditional cameras with operators simply can’t match. One of the key benefits of PTZs is the ability to remotely operate them from across the room or even across the world. This allows for greater flexibility and creativity in the filming process. It also allows the ability to cover multiple angles and perspectives with just one camera.
Easy & Rapid Deployment
A major advantage of PTZ cameras is their fast and easy deployment and use. They can be powered, controlled, and send video signal through a single ethernet cable, which greatly simplifies the deployment process. This is known as Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, which allows for a single ethernet cable to carry both data and power to the camera. This eliminates the need for separate power and control cables, making the installation process quick and easy.
The ability to control the camera through the ethernet cable allows you to remotely control it from a computer or dedicated PTZ controller. Because of this, you have more flexibility in the placement of your PTZs throughout a venue, as well as your control location.
Now You See Them, Now You Don’t
In addition to their quick and easy setup, PTZ cameras offer the added benefit of being more discreet than traditional cameras. They can be installed in a variety of locations throughout a venue and can be hidden from plain sight. You can even blend them into scenic elements, making them virtually unseen by the majority of your attendees. Pretty cool, right?
PTZs can also be placed in areas where traditional cameras can’t reach easily. An example of this would be a PTZ placed on a truss line above a stage. This allows for shots of both the stage and the audience, making for a more interesting angle.
Overall, PTZs provide the freedom to capture footage in a dynamic and captivating way that might not have been possible with other camera options. They also provide you with a much cleaner and more discrete look and feel.
Traditional Cameras
PTZ Cameras
Connections & Protocols for Every Workflow
Many modern PTZ cameras come with a variety of connections and protocols to delivery video signal. These can include, but aren’t limited to, HDMI, SDI, NDI, NDI|HX, SRT, and/or RTMP. This makes them compatible with a wide range of production equipment and software which ultimately allows for seamless integration into existing video workflows.
Whether you’re using hardware switchers like the Blackmagic Design ATEM or software switching solutions like vMix, PTZ cameras can easily be utilized to create unique and dynamic shots not otherwise achievable.
Affordable, Cost Effective, & Flexible
In addition, another major reason PTZs are an ideal option for events and installations is their affordability. Compared to alternatives, PTZs offer high-quality video at a lower expense. This makes them a more cost-effective option for a wide range of events such as live performances, conferences, conventions and even permanent installations.
Where traditional cameras can cost upwards of tends of thousands of dollars, high-quality PTZs can be had for a fraction of that cost. This makes the barrier to entry for high-quality video production much lower for budget conscious events and organizations.
At Ci Pro A/V, we regularly utilize AIDA Imaging PTZ cameras. They’re affordable, easy to setup, and look great! They also allow us to provide high-quality video for our customers at costs that can meet almost any budget.
AIDA Imaging X18 PTZ Camera
Retail cost of $795.00
The Final Word
Overall, PTZ cameras are a versatile and cost-effective option for video production that offer unique and dynamic shots not able to be captured by traditional cameras with operators. They can be easily operated remotely, integrated into existing video workflows, and deployed in a wide range of settings. They’re also more compact and discrete than traditional camera options.
Whether you’re filming an event or installing cameras in an office, PTZ cameras should definitely be considered as a powerful tool in your video workflow.
