Panasonic has certainly been one of the leading companies in digital technology for many years. A company with a history of almost a century, Panasonic's products have been some of the most reliable and technologically advanced tools for filmmakers.

Jan Crittenden, the Product Manager at Panasonic Broadcast and TV Systems answered our questions about Panasonic's place in the evolving digital cinema world. Having started her career in this industry in 1973 and having worked at Panasonic since 1986, Ms. Crittenden tells us about the filmmaker revolution, starting from the high-definition Varicam to the 24p phenomena in video and many other little secrets that you won't be able to hear anywhere else.

The Questions:

1) What is Panasonic’s role in the evolving digital cinema industry? Can you tell us about how you are contributing to this medium?

2) How important is it for Panasonic to have strong relations with film students and independent or emerging filmmakers? What do you do in order to keep these relations permanent and strong?

3) Can you tell us a little about your educational tools? What are some of Panasonic’s services, in terms of educating the film/videomaker?

4) From your latest products including digital cameras and lenses, which one would you suggest to an independent filmmaker, shooting his/her first film?

5) Can you talk a little bit about the type of Panasonic cameras film crews choose to use these days?

6) HD TV's and cameras have been highly popular since their emergence. While some film and/or TV producers choose to use the HD technology, some don't. What are some benefits and disadvantages of this new technology, and who is better off using it in the industry?

7) The camcorder technology is advancing very fast. From film to Beta SP & VHS to Mini DV and finally DVD camcorders, where do you see the future of the camera?


To hear the interview, click below.