Sony’s SMTC introduces 4K and HDR capabilities to Indian broadcasters
Published: ASIA
INDIA: Sony India has made updates to its Sony Media Technology Center (SMTC) in Mumbai with the addition of 4K and HDR production equipment to the facility. The inclusion of the new technologies to the SMTC are the result of a collaboration between the manufacturer and Whistling Woods International (WWI), a Mumbai-based institute for film, communications and media, which aims to promote 4K and HDR content creation in India’s broadcast sector.
In particular, Sony is going to use the new equipment at the centre to deliver training for 4K live production in sports and drama while emphasising its XAVC 4K/HDR acquisition format. The training will explore seamless integration between existing HD and 4K workflows, while demonstrating the manufacturer’s products, such as the HDC-4300 broadcast camera, reportedly designed for broadcasters making the transition from HD to 4K. Seminars covering 4K cinematography cameras and OLED monitors are also expected to be run.
The facility, which also demonstrates the manufacturer’s 3D technical equipment, now has the capability to demonstrate and provide expertise on the full 4K content creation workflow, from acquisition through to postproduction. The facility is open to students as well as media professionals, who can attend the seminars, or familiarise themselves with the products.
‘SMTC was launched in India in 2011 by Sir Howard Stringer, then chairman, CEO and president of Sony Corporation, and Subhash Ghai, chairman of Whistling Woods International,’ said Mikio Kita, deputy senior GM, media segment business division, PSSG, imaging products and solutions sector at Sony. ‘Since then, SMTC has been providing training to leading media professionals and students of WWI. SMTC is Sony’s first and only such facility in India, and fourth such facility in the world. With this collaboration between SMTC and WWI, the first phase of 4K cinema market development has been established successfully.’
‘With 4K and HDR becoming important tools in the broadcasting and filmmaking fields, SMTC will act as a great platform for aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals,’ added Shinya Koshie, national head of the professional solution division at Sony India. ‘Sony is delighted to provide technology innovation by enhancing the Sony Media Technology Center.’