Hunter says that while the show is challenging because of
its use of a dozen cameras, the disc-based XDCAM camcorders allow the team to
sync up settings for a uniform look throughout, eliminating color variables and
inconsistencies. The camcorder's scene file storage capabilities also help make
the online editor's job easier when color-correcting thousands of hours of
footage during post production.
For On the Lot, Hunter instructs his
crew to shoot using the camera's progressive 30p mode to create a visual
environment that "treads the line between film and video." Not quite the
film-look of 24p or the video look of 60i, he said it is "something altogether
unique."
Timelapse sequences commonly used for transitional effects are also done efficiently,
as the XDCAM has a timelapse mode that mimics 35mm film production.
The unit's memory cache has also proven to be useful, as it
allows operators to recover footage up to 10 seconds before the camera is
formally set to record.
On the Lot is not the
first reality television series that Hunter has relied on the XDCAM camcorder.
He also worked on Rock Star: Supernova and America's Next Top Model.