HotCam chooses Canon cameras and lenses for The X Factor

Canon UK has announced that HotCam has supplied a wide range of its professional broadcast lenses and cameras for use on the latest series of ITV’s The X Factor. The camera facilities company is providing camera and broadcast sound equipment for the shows audition process as it tours the UK.

Given the sheer scale of The X Factor and the constant need to push the creative boundaries of the show, 90% of the lenses used are from Canon. This huge range of glass includes the XJ86 box lens, the HJ40, HJ22 and HJ14 broadcast lenses and the highly versatile CN7x17 KAS S E1/P1 Cine lens. Also being used are a number of L Series EF mount lenses including the EF 70-200mm, EF 24-70mm, EF 16-35mm and multiple EF prime lenses.

This extensive range of glass is used to capture the auditions live on stage, while Canon EOS C300 professional cine cameras are backstage for contestants’ interviews and the reality aspects of the auditions. Canon EOS 5D and EOS 7D cameras are also used to provide stylised B-roll and time-lapse photography – heightening the show’s production values.

Dan Studley, technical manager/director of The X Factor said: “We’re constantly looking at new innovative ways to get a better shot, improve efficiency and add production value, so the usability of the equipment is extremely important. Being able to swap lenses between cameras is crucial for keeping costs down.”

He added: “We use Canon lenses because of the quality and reliability they offer. The EOS C300 is economical to hire, and when run with the Canon glass, it delivers a fantastic cinematic picture that is instantly gradable if required.”

Austin Freshwater, director, Professional Imaging at Canon UK & Ireland said: “This is a good example of both the business and creative benefits that our solutions can deliver. Having tested some of our cameras and lenses, HotCam soon replaced their stock with the Canon equivalent, citing our easy-to-use set-up and operation, versatility, value and reliability. The success of the decision is in the projects, such as The X Factor, that HotCam is involved in.”

HotCam also provides all the lighting for the reality aspects of the show that run alongside the live performance stage of the show.