Press Release

Pioneering fluid head innovator OConnor, a Vitec Group brand, is pleased to introduce a new line of professional camera accessories engineered to fulfill the needs of today’s high-end cinematography.
 

“For 60 years, OConnor fluid heads and tripods have been valued tools for the art of movie making,” says Bob Carr, President of Camera Dynamics Inc. (a Vitec Group business unit), “and we’re grateful for the industry’s ongoing support. The new accessory line continues the OConnor tradition of supporting the cinematographer’s art with industry-leading engineering and craftsmanship, tailored to the rapidly-changing landscape of new cameras.” 
 
To ensure these new precision tools meet OConnor’s high standards, the company has chosen Jim Elias, based in Europe, to head the design team. A recognized name in professional camera accessory design, Elias brings extensive experience as a camera assistant to the engineering process. Another film industry veteran, Eric J. Johnston, has been appointed Product Specialist. Eric, based in Valley Cottage NY, is already interfacing with working camera people to get on-the-set feedback and integrate their needs into the new product design.
 
The first OConnor camera accessory– with many more to come – is a completely modular cine-style follow-focus system. The compact and low profile unit enables quick, tool-free mounting on standard rod systems. This new OConnor cine-style follow focus is compatible with all standard follow-focus accessories and driver gears. OConnor’s new follow focus integrates elegantly with all camera and lens systems in use. The further products in the range will be announced as they are released.
 
As with the entire OConnor family, the camera accessories are backed by the company’s expert customer support and service departments. According to Bob Carr, “Because the new follow focus is designed for modular versatility and compatibility with other systems, the smartly priced system should be extremely popular with rental houses and users who own a number of different camera and lens combinations.”
 
The OConnor cine-style follow focus will be available for preorder in March. Delivery is scheduled to begin in April.
For further information, go to www.ocon.com, become a fan on Facebook, follow the company on Twitter; or contact OConnor, 2701 N. Ontario Street, Burbank, CA 91504, Phone: 818-847-8666, Fax: 818-847-1205
 
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About OConnor
Pioneering fluid head and tripod innovator OConnor has been the choice of top cinematographers since its invention nearly 60 years ago by Chad O’Connor of OConnor Engineering. Known for their hallmark smooth feel, consistent reliability, and cinematographer- friendly features, OConnor’s award-winning fluid heads offer maximum control and stability for film-style cinematography. Today’s support line includes the Ultimate range of fluid heads and Cine HD carbon-fiber tripods. With the 120EX OConnor introduced the flagship of its new series of EXTENDED CAPACITY fluid heads—the EX range. OConnor’s new 2575D fluid head continues the legacy of the industry standard – the Ultimate range of fluid heads for cine and digital cameras. The new camera accessory line will offer a range of camera lens tools for high- end cinematography applications.
Along with five other leading brands in the broadcast industry, OConnor is part of Camera Dynamics Inc., which in turn is part of the Vitec Group of companies
 
The Vitec Group – capture the moment
The Vitec Group plc provides vital products and services that support the capture of exceptional images through world-class customer experience and a visionary approach to the future. It is a leading supplier to the broadcast and media, photographic and live events industries in more than 100 countries worldwide, and is rapidly extending its reach by taking proven technologies into government, security and defense. Vitec’s many industry-leading product brands have established a formidable reputation for innovation, technical excellence, and superior service and support. 
 
The group has over 1700 employees worldwide, and revenues in 2008 of £338 million. It is formed of three divisions to support specific industry sectors: VideoCom, including manual and robotic camera supports, location lighting, camera and equipment bags, portable power solutions, prompting products, wireless camera links and voice communication systems; Imaging and Staging, supporting the photography, videography and live events markets; and Services, for professional video and audio rental equipment and engineering support for major event productions.