The Technical Side of C-SPAN

Well, I cant really think of stuff to blog about, so I am going to be telling you about the equipment used at C-SPAN. 

Cameras

Well, C-SPAN is starting to edge their way into HD video and currently broadcast in HD in New York and Kentucky (Not sure why they choose the state with the lowest TV to house ratio in the US). But they are moving forward and I cant diss them for that. 

So they have a few different types of cameras that they use.

The first one that they mainly use is a standard definition camera. I am not sure the exact model but it is a camera close to the Panasonic AJ-HDX900. Its pretty cool.

They are starting to go HD, I couldnt tell you the make and model of the big cameras. They are starting to do some robotic HD camera stuff using cameras like these Sony's. They have two cameras that are remote controlled, then their signal is sent into a portable HD switcher (which actually may be this model.)

Then they have the ENG style giant broadcast cameras that are HD. Like I said, I dont know the exact make and model but I believe they do have them lol. 

Then they have the basic lighting kits, Arri and Lowel DP sets. They have the field audio mixers, some type of Shure model. CUC actually has the same model but uses them in their audio room. I was taken back to think CUC actually had something that professionals use. They also have their portable racks which contain tape decks, a few monitors, and a switcher. One portable rack holds half the equipment, so two are required for each field use. 

So on a one camera shoot, the gear that is taken is a smaller portabrace bag with cables, gaffers tape, and odds and ends; two Lowel DP lights; a tripod; a camera; and a push cart thing.

For shoots when we take the portable racks, we take a giant crate on wheels with the cables and such, the two portable racks; two tripods; and the cameras. 

Now with my internship I get to see some pretty cool stuff. For instance, I got to see the best view in DC(in my honest opinion) Now, I have a video that I uploaded, and I will give it a few days if it doesn't work then I will take it down. But here (hopefully) is the view atop the Hall of States Building

Now, I hope that is enough to tie you all over until I have my next post. Maybe Ill upload some pictures this week(end)

Stay Classy

Drew