The Butcher's Shop; Cinematographer Sean Bobbitt, BSC

Photos: © Andy Subratie

Sean Bobbitt, BSC - Cinematographer on The Butcher’s Shop

“The fact that you can work in log space and use LUTs to see the image on monitors on set is fantastic. It gives the director such confidence”

“I’ve been shooting digital RAW with stills photography for some time and have recognised the clear benefits. It just seemed logical to me that this is the next step, in terms of pushing the camera to its limits and getting the best possible quality imaging straight off the chip itself - avoiding all the processing and compression.”

“In Data Mode you have the highest quality of information – not just resolution but color information as well – all the way through the workflow, so when you come to the grade you’re not working with degraded, compressed images, which for me have always been the biggest drawback of all the other HD formats.”

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ARRI ARRIFLEX D-21 manual Sean Bobbitt, BSC Cinematographer on The Butcher’s Shop

ARRIFLEX D-21 specifications

The ARRI ARRIFLEX D-21 is a groundbreaking digital motion picture camera that represents the convergence of traditional cinematography and modern digital technology. Launched in 2005, the D-21 was designed with input from renowned cinematographers and is renowned for its exceptional image quality and versatility. One of the standout features of the D-21 is its unique Super 35mm-sized sensor, which closely mimics the characteristics of film, allowing filmmakers to achieve a familiar depth of field and aesthetic that is appreciated by professionals in the industry.

The D-21 incorporates advanced color science, enabling it to capture a broad dynamic range and reproduce colors faithful to the filmmakers' vision. Its sensor offers an impressive 13 stops of dynamic range, providing the ability to handle highlights and shadows with phenomenal detail. This capability is especially vital for high-contrast scenes often found in cinematography.

Another key characteristic of the D-21 is its modular design, which allows for various configurations to suit different shooting requirements. The camera body can be equipped with numerous accessories, including a wide range of lenses, filters, and external recorders, enhancing its ability to adapt to diverse filmmaking conditions. Additionally, the D-21 supports various recording formats, including 1080p and 720p, allowing for both high-definition and standard workflows.

The camera employs a dual-link HD-SDI output, facilitating real-time monitoring and recording to external devices. This feature is particularly useful during live broadcasts or in demanding production environments where immediate feedback on image quality is critical.

The ARRIFLEX D-21 also incorporates advanced noise reduction technologies, ensuring that low-light performance remains exceptional. This capability allows filmmakers to work in challenging environments and capture stunning visuals without the need for extensive lighting setups.

Durability is another aspect where the D-21 excels. Constructed with robust materials, it can withstand the rigors of professional filmmaking, making it a reliable choice for on-location shooting. Furthermore, the camera is designed to be user-friendly, equipped with intuitive controls that minimize the learning curve for cinematographers.

In conclusion, the ARRI ARRIFLEX D-21 has earned its place in the pantheon of cinematic tools due to its blend of innovative technology and a deep-rooted understanding of the art of filmmaking. Its remarkable features, such as superior image quality, flexible design, and robust performance in various environments, make it a valuable asset in any filmmaker's toolkit.