Russo pairs VariCam with 26in LCD monitor on high-profile productions

Barry Russo, a Tenafly, NJ-based digital image technician (DIT), is teaming his Panasonic AJ-HDC27 VariCam HD Cinema camera and BT-LH2600W 26in HD production-quality LCD monitor, garnering accolades on recent national commercial assignments for clients like Verizon and Planters Peanuts.

As owner of Barry Russo Video Productions, a full-service HD camera and production service provider, he has found that the setup allows him to offer one-stop shopping for production services to clients throughout the Northeast.

Russo recently completed a 30-minute Verizon infomercial shoot at Silvercup Studios East in New York City for The Lopes Picture Company. The DP was Kevin McNight and the director was Susan Buster Thomas. Russo served as the DIT. The infomercial, which will air nationally and also be available on DVD, introduces Verizon's residential customers to its FiOS high-speed fiber-optic services.

Russo's VariCam is fully equipped film-style with Panasonic's BT-LH900A 8.4in multiformat HD production monitor and two Fujinon Cine-style zoom lenses outfitted with a 4x5 matte box, double follow-focus and micro-force zoom control. Other gear in his arsenal includes the Panasonic AG-HVX200 DVCPRO P2 HD camcorder, AG-HD1200A DVCPRO HD VTR and BT-LH1700W 17in widescreen LCD production monitor.

Russo brought two VariCams and two BT-LH2600Ws to the seven-day Verizon shoot. According to Russo, the 26in monitors are “extremely resilient to ambient light” and usually do not require a tent to shield them from room light.

Russo also uses his Panasonic gear during recurring commercial spot assignments for Michael Vicarelli Productions of New York City for products including Planters Peanuts, Ritz Crackers and Crystal Light. The equipment has also been used to shoot 30-second spots, predominantly green screen work, for Citibank and off-price retail clothing chain A. J. Wright, as well as Internet ads for Norelco and Ford.

For more information, visit www.panasonic.com/broadcast.