Have you ever wondered how the action in a video is captured so flawlessly? Video makers may make it look effortless, but capturing all elements while on the move is no joke. This article discusses all the camera cars or the cinematic vehicles that play a major role in the seamless execution of videography. 

If you think video production is all about pressing the record button on your camera, think again. From concept formation to planning and coordination to execution and then the post-production processes, video makers need to ensure that all elements are aligned in a way that they complement each other and that the end result is satisfactory.

A lot goes into making a video, whether for a cinematic project or a marketing project. For instance, if we consider video content development for a brand, many elements are involved, including idea formation, storyboarding, script, selection of characters and location, production team, and the requisite equipment. 

Cinematic vehicles also referred to as pursuit vehicles, are a pertinent component of video content making. While a video is being shot, these cars are covertly riding alongside, capturing all the action, be it shooting a commercial or filming a high-speed car chase. Let’s learn more about these vehicles and their role in filming a video.

All about cinematic vehicles

Cinematic vehicles are usually motor-driven, configured to mount and man video gear like cameras and other equipment. While they are engineered to manage all the required equipment, they are also modified to cater to videography requirements. For instance, the exterior of these vehicles is often covered in a matte black finish so that they do not reflect while being used in the shooting.

The origin of modern cinematic vehicles can be traced back to the 1960s. However, camera cars have been in use for a much longer time, as even in the mid-’20s, camera cars were used to shoot outdoor scenes with movements.

Similarly, picture cars, the cars shown on the camera, have also been in use for a long time. Around the 1930s, filmmakers used to place picture cars in front of projection screens to give the impression of a moving vehicle. During the 1940s and 50s, action films shot scenes in cars by placing cameras in or on moving vehicles. Technology has evolved considerably since then. Process photography has been introduced in cinematography and video making, whereby green screens are used for shooting purposes. 

Types of cinematic vehicles

Cinematic vehicles come in different shapes and sizes to cater to varying requirements. Let’s look at a few examples.

Cinematic Trailers 

Firstly we have the trailers that can tow the picture cars and lug heavy gear around. For instance, the insert cars or mobile crew sets are used to hold camera crew or equipment. Insert cars are usually a van or a truck that come with various platforms to accommodate the team and their gear. 

You will find insert cars with their own generator, camera, and light setups. They can be used for shooting in front or behind the picture cars and can also be used to tow the picture cars.

Then we have the process trailers or insert trailers, which are used to hold the picture car and allow for capturing natural shots while moving along the roadways. Another example is the tow dolly, which holds the front wheels of the picture car. It is used in instances when the camera crew is using car-mounted rigs to capture the shots in locations where they do not want the picture car to be above other cars, for instance, in high-traffic areas. 

Camera cars

The most popular form of camera cars used is the high-end SUVs, like the Mercedes Benz ML series and Porsche Cayenne. In addition to their visual appeal, they are suitable for challenging terrains. Additionally, they can accommodate more crew members and have a sturdy braking system, which is a requirement for capturing high-speed shots and stopping instantly. 

In addition to SUVs, camera cars are also deployed for close-up shots of vehicles or as high-speed pursuit vehicles. Additionally, some companies also use custom cars as cinematic vehicles to cater to unique filming requirements. For instance, the Go Mobile is a flat vehicle, which enables the video creators to use any vehicle body on the top.

Cinematic vehicles at Gear Seven 

To cater to the competitive brand marketing requirements, Gear Seven employs advanced technology when it comes to cinematic vehicles and robotics. We feature a wide range of cars ranging from the Chevy Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss to Mercedes-Benz ML 63, which operate on the MotoCrane system, the world’s leading universal motorized camera crane system.

The pursuit vehicles are used with MIA cinema robots for motorized precision and to ensure that even the tiniest details are captured, and none of any high-speed recurrent movements are missed. 

Get a pursuit vehicle today

If you are in need of a cinematic vehicle for your next video project, you can source a high-end vehicle from Shift Dynamics, a sister concern of Gear Seven. The Nashville TN- based company features a dynamic fleet of vehicles, modern video equipment for cinematic requirements, and a team of professionals who provide production support in all forms. Be it a film or a commercial, you will find the equipment you need at Shift Dynamics.

Gear Seven leverages the camera cars by Shift Dynamics, engineered for unique filming requirements. These cinematic vehicles are designed to cope with any terrain or equipment-related challenges. Whether you need a Mercedes ML 63, Can-AM Maverick X3, Chevy Trail Boss, equipment transport vans, or support trucks like the Dodge Ram field, Shift Dynamics has it all.

Owing to its vast experience and inventory, Shift Dynamics caters to different kinds of video and film project requirements. You will also be facilitated with technical expertise to operate the camera gear, the pursuit vehicles, and cinematic robotics in congruence to get the desired shot according to your requirements.

Perfection is a subjective term, but with the use of high-end equipment and technology, Gear Seven aims to provide brands with an experience that is a true reflection of flawlessness and a high level of craftsmanship. These cinematic vehicles play a significant role in enabling Gear Seven to capture shots that take brand promotion to the next level and weave a compelling brand image in the consumers’ minds.