One of the drivers of the current success of Indie films is an improved image resulting from high resolution digital video cameras and high performance lenses. The combination is proving so successful that as cinematographers and directors make the move to feature films, they're bringing the technology with them.

Such is the case for cinematographer Jas Shelton and his most current project with the Duplass brothers for Fox Searchlight Pictures. Shelton is DP for the film, starring John C. Reilly and Marisa Tomei, and he is using a RED camera equipped with a Thales Angenieux Optimo DP 30-80mm Rouge lens.

According to Shelton this is the first studio feature for the Duplass brothers, who built their success in Indie films. Shelton's previous experience in working with them was as DP of their film Do Deca Pentathalon, now in post-production.

In describing the Duplass brothers' working style, Shelton said: "All of their previous films were shot hand-held with lightweight pro-sumer cameras. The challenge for this current project was to find a system that fit within the context of how the brothers photograph their movies. It was important to maintain the integrity of their unique storytelling style, which includes 360 degree lighting, no rehearsals, no marks, and freedom of movement for the actors and the cameras. In effect, this practically equates to shooting hand-held with lightweight cameras and lenses, with long recording times- but still providing the maximum image quality for theatrical release."

Years of experience in the film and television production industry proved their worth to Shelton as he explored lightweight zoom lens options that would ideally meet these objectives. He evaluated several lenses from the leading manufacturers, including prime lenses but ultimately selected the Optimo 30-80mm Rouge lens from Thales Angenieux, provided by Alternative Rentals.

"In comparison to other lenses we looked at, the Optimo Rouge offered the best solution for weight, speed, focal length, ergonomics, smooth zooming with no breathing and all with impeccable optical quality," said Shelton. "I am a long time user and advocate of Angenieux lenses and the Optimo Rouge lived up to all my expectations and demands."

Shelton's demands were particularly high because of the nature of the Duplass brothers' style of film making. He said: "For a feature shot entirely hand-held, the Optimo Rouge was the perfect solution. Due to its light weight and speed, it enabled us to capture spontaneous moments that otherwise might have been lost with a more cumbersome and slower lens. It really allowed us to maintain the intimate, low profile shooting style that is a distinct part of the Duplass brothers' movies."

While its use in a feature film may be a first for the Optimo DP Rouge lens, its use by Shelton and other cinematographers in music videos, commercials and television production is well established because of its outstanding optical performance and light weight. Shelton states that the lens is now a standard piece of gear in his "RED" package and is used on all his projects.

"The lens really allows me added versatility in my shooting," said Shelton. "It has a smooth barrel for manual zooming and the calibrated focus marks on the lens are excellent."

www.angenieux.com