The key to superior, cinematic video quality is using a high-quality camera system- paired with years of skill mastering. While there are many camera systems out there boasting to be the best, RED cameras have been a pioneer in the video industry. Several top films and TV shows have been shot on RED: Mr. Robot, Punisher, Godfather of Harlem, The Irishman, Mindhunter, Stranger Things 2, Hustlers, and Guardians of the Galaxy 2. Many filmmakers or film enthusiasts have probably encountered RED (R3D) digital camera systems at some point, but if not, allow us to showcase the supreme power of RED (R3d) codec.
What is RED (R3D) Codec?
RED is an ultra-sleek, ultra-powerful digital film recording system used by cinematic producers. RED is the brand name, and .R3D is the file format extension in which RED videos are created. RED will only ever produce RAW, .R3D files, so keep that in mind; however, for experienced editors, this should not be an issue.
REDCODE is the technology codec that allows for efficient, lossless, manageable video files, and is a key to creating both 4K and 8K images. The technology strategically encodes video data in a way that maximizes all post-production editing, making it easy to fine-tune every detail and produce a captivating final product.
4K to 8K Only
RED is unique because it was among the first video systems to allow shooting in 4K and is now among the first to enable 8K. RED stays ahead of the curve. All current systems support a range of resolutions from 4K to 8K only. Say bye-bye to standard HD video. The resolution that RED produces is top-notch, making for incredibly realistic and dynamic films.
Quick Benefits of using RED (R3d) CODE RAW
Before we go any further, browse this list for quick, to the point answers on why RED shoots excellent video and is the cinematographer’s system of choice.
- RAW creates precise images that make post-production a breeze.
- RED is the only camera system on the market that hits all the targets.
- RAW files mean additional metadata and more information on the shot.
- RED offers tunable file sizes to create compelling images.
- RED creates RAW files that work with all major post-production software.
- RED RAW files take up less space than other codecs.
- RED is the best 8K video system for cinematic shots.
Power of Resolution
Resolution is a primary reason why filmmakers choose RED cameras over any other option. As mentioned earlier, there are only two options for resolution: 4K and 8K. Their equipment is specially designed to unlock the most powerful resolution that current technology can produce. Shooting in 8K has many benefits, one of them being a larger canvas to work with. More pixels mean more content and a higher-quality final output.
More pixels also mean more creative flexibility and easier editing. You can stabilize a shot to prevent shakiness, resulting in smooth-movement images. 8K makes images appear more natural, picking up a wider depth of color, textures, smoothness, shape, and form. Take your time and play around with the many different dynamic color features, changing color palettes, contrasts, highlights, and more. RAW files capture all the detail 8K generates, letting post-production editors use pinpoint accuracy to change even the smallest of details- down to the color of a subject’s nails. Reframing and cropping are also super easy with RED; pan, tilt, scan, and zoom without sacrificing quality. The technology (RED COED) that supports this system truly is powerful, unleashing endless cinematic opportunities.
Power of Efficiency
Ok, now this is impressive. From taking a trip to outer-space to surviving extreme temperatures, RED cameras have been through it all. Each system is designed with resilience, reliability, and efficiency in mind. Producers of Discover’s hit show Deadliest Catch used RED cameras to film all the wild, watery adventures experienced by the legendary crab fishing crew. It withstood wind and water- lots of water. Other than seawater, RED cameras can withstand extreme hot and cold temperatures.
According to RED’s website, the system can withstand semi-distant blazing temperatures (do not throw your gear next to a fire) as well as freezing, arctic landscapes. The camera might get cold or hot, but image quality and reliability will remain the same- supreme. RED has become one of cinematographer’s most trusted systems because, no matter the terrain or environment, RED has proven that it can handle anything.
Build Your Own System
RED allows for extreme customization of their products. Not only do they sell camera “brains” and lenses, but they sell various accessories as well as a product line called RED Ranger. These are premium, 4K & 8K systems, so pricing is at a premium and has a wide range. It is interesting to see the powerful specs their technology boasts, so click here to build your own system if you are even remotely interested.
