What kind of cameras does Will Vinton Studios use?
Vinton’s uses(d) 16mm Bolex cameras customized to shoot single frames for the tv specials and short films. The commercials were and are shot using modified 35mm Mitchell’s. “The PJ’s” and “Gary & Mike” are recorded on a digital video system. The story goes that years ago the studio got a deal on some government surplus used Mitchell 35mm cameras. (Cue the X-Files music) Supposedly they were originally used to film nuclear bomb tests in Nevada. They were supposedly checked for residual radiation. These were originally live action cameras that had to be modified to shoot single frames. Vinton’s has it’s own electronics and machine shops, so this work was done in house. I’m not sure what it would cost to have these modifications made, but it wouldn’t be cheap. You might be able to find a camera at a pawn shop or flea market. Some cities occasionally have camera and photography swap meets. I remember an animator at Vinton’s once running across a very rare to find 16mm Mitchell for around $
