Euro 2024: Sky Italia elevates pitchside coverage with addition of an anamorphic zoom lens
The Rocky system, also known as Rockycam, developed by 4acrew, alongside the debut of an anamorphic zoom lens has taken Sky Italia’s Euros 2024 coverage to a new level
For Sky Italia, the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship has taken a technological step forward with the use of an anamorphic zoom lens to bring viewers a new level of clarity.
The Rocky system, also known as Rockycam, developed by 4acrew, alongside the debut of an anamorphic zoom lens with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio, marks a milestone in live sports coverage for the broadcaster.
This event, directed by Roberto Montoli for Sky Italia, features the first ever use of an anamorphic zoom lens in live television on Sky Italia. This lens, which has been designed specifically for this event, boasts a 33% wider horizontal field than standard aspherical lenses, capturing the stadium and intense action with a strong level clarity and cinematic breadth. The lens in question, a lightweight 28-85 mm F.4 anamorphic zoom, was mounted on a Sony FX30 camera, illustrating a seamless blend of agility and high performance optics.
The Rockycam system supports the Sony FX30 equipped with the ultra-light anamorphic zoom lens, all balanced on a Crane 4 Zhiyun gimbal, with an alternative setup using the DJI Ronin RS4 Pro.
The Rockycam system supports the Sony FX30 equipped with the ultra-light anamorphic zoom lens, all balanced on a Crane 4 Zhiyun gimbal
Control over this sophisticated equipment is maintained via Tilta and Sony’s active handles (FS5-FS7), directly by director of photography and operator, Andy Galeazzi.
The remote camera controls, managed via LTE by Cyanview RCP from the Cinevideo OB van, further exemplify the integration of cutting-edge technology in live broadcasts. The HD RF signal is transmitted to the Cinevideo OB van using the Plus link from Smilink, another product and brand from 4acrew, ensuring real time, high definition video feeds without latency.
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Power management is another critical component adeptly handled by the Rocky system. Utilising Blueshape batteries equipped with a Quick Changer – also a Blueshape innovation – ensures that the camera operates continuously without the need for shutdowns during battery changes. This feature is important in live broadcasting, where every second counts, and the risk of “going black” unexpectedly can derail an otherwise flawless transmission.
This system also enhances the live sideline commentary by the award-winning former player, Alessandro Del Piero. The Rocky system has enabled a dynamic and intimate coverage style, allowing viewers to experience the event with the same intensity and proximity as being pitch side.
The deployment of these technologies at the UEFA European Championship not only enhances the viewer’s experience by providing more immersive, cinematic visuals, but also sets a new standard for the integration of film-grade technology in live sports broadcasting.