Kodak Improves Telecine Process With Introduction of Calibration System

Kodak has introduced an innovative new telecine tool for filmmakers and postproduction professionals. The KODAK Telecine Calibration System (TCS) provides a more efficient way to capture the richness in shadow and highlight details when film images are transferred to digital video format. The result is that transfers are more consistent, which better reflects the creative intentions of the filmmakers, and efficiency in the telecine suite is improved.

"The KODAK Telecine Calibration System is one more way to help filmmakers achieve their creative goals," says Kodak's Robert Mayson, general manager and vice president of image capture. "This new tool helps to insure that the richness and vibrancy of the images recorded on film are reflected in the postproduction process."

The KODAK TCS has two stages, according to Kodak's Product Manager Maryann Mendel. The first is a single telecine calibration setup, which works for all Kodak motion picture films. In the second stage, the video signal passes through the KODAK TCS Image Processor and an appropriate look-up table (LUT) is applied. The LUTs can be automatically applied using KEYKODE numbers, or the operator can select the right LUT manually. The system also incorporates Kodak's proprietary color management software.

"Colorists and telecine operators will be able to capture all of the information on film during the first telecine transfer, and the resulting images will have greater dynamic range without loss of highlight or shadow detail," says Mendel. "This gives colorists and telecine operators an excellent starting point for color grading and more creative flexibility in the tape-to-tape color correction process."

Mendel adds that one box supports both high and standard definition applications, handles overs and unders, accepts KEYKODE numbers for auto work, auto selects format, supports both CCD and CRT type telecines, and provides a legalizer for HD and SD.

"The technology is there to serve the filmmaker and post production professional," says Mendel. "Kodak is constantly working on new ways to put powerful, yet easy-to-use technology in the hands of our creative customers."

The KODAK TCS will be demonstrated at NAB at the Kodak booth C886. For more information, visit www.kodak.com/go/motion