Have you ever wondered how much distance you can cover with different optical zoom lenses in PTZ cameras? If you’re looking for an answer, you’re in the right place. We went out to the streets of L.A. to test out the distances that you can film with 12x, 20x, and 30x optical zoom PTZ cameras.
The first camera we tested was the PTC 280, which has a 12x optical zoom lens. We simulated a small venue across the street and tested the camera’s ability to capture wide shots, medium shots, and close-ups. At 25 feet, we got a great shot. At 50 feet, we had a medium shot, and at 45 feet, we got a medium shot to close-up. At 100 feet away, we could still easily get a full standing shot.
Next up, we tested the PTC 140 and PTC 300 4K cameras, both of which have 20x optical zoom lenses. At 50 feet away, we got a solid close-up shot. Moving back to 75 feet, we got a perfect waist-up shot, and at 100 feet away, we captured a two-shot with two different people on stage. At 125 feet away, we got a two-shot of Josh on stage. Finally, we tested the Datavideo PTC 150, which has a 30x optical zoom lens. At 100 feet away, we got a solid close-up shot, and at 150 feet, we captured a medium shot without any issues.
In summary, at 100 feet away, the PTC 280’s 12x optical zoom lens could capture a standing shot, while the PTC 140 and PTC 300’s 20x optical zoom lenses could capture a medium shot or two-shot at the same distance. Meanwhile, the PTC 150’s 30x optical zoom lens could capture a close-up at 100 feet.
While optical zoom is an important factor to consider when choosing a camera, it’s not the only thing to consider. Our guide to robotic camera video production covers everything from connectivity to camera control and workflow. You can download it now via the link in the description below.
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