Red Scarlet-X Reviews & Tutorials

In 5 days I start working on a new production as the main camera operator. The Director of photography has arranged for us to shoot on the Red Scarlet-X. I am extremely excited as I haven’t yet shot on that camera. So, in preparation I will be teaching myself via tutorials and I thought I would share the experience with you all.

My aim is that this post will save others searching all over the world wide web for tutorials. To be clear I am not teaching how to shoot on the camera, but sharing the resources that taught me. So if you have a look at all the links or at least the videos, you will have a pretty solid idea to get you started.

Here I go.

Red Scarlet X.

Summary

SCARLET-X is capable of capturing 5K stills and 4K motion footage. It has a large dynamic range of 13.5 stops and is capable of HDRx at 3k (The blending of two clips filmed simultaneously to get 2 different exposures. Useful for a dark interior and bright exterior. Blending the two clips will make both interior and exterior appear correctly exposed.

Here is a video to demonstrate the effect of HDRx. For more info about HDRx see REDs Jim Jannards overview.

Unlike it’s predecessors the RED ONE and EPIC, the Scarlet-X is a much more compact unit (As well as more affordable)

The Scarlet-X is a simpler, cut down version of the EPIC. So if you have shot on an EPIC, you will have no trouble with the SCARLET-X, though will recognise it’s limitations in comparison to the EPIC.

The Scarlet-X is the most affordable camera, on the current market ,which allows you to shoot 4k with a 35mm sensor.

The Scarlet-X has many Pros and Cons. If you are considering buying one, I strongly suggest you read some of the reviews I have attached.

Price Tag

To own your own Scarlet X brand new from RED you are looking at paying anywhere between $9800 – $34,000 depending on your requirements. Expect to spend about $20,000 to be able to shoot with all the necessary accessories i.e. cards, batteries etc
For those in Sydney you can hire one with lenses for under $900 a day/weekend from Metroscreen.

How to Use the Scarlet-X

For the operation guide you can download it here.

Setup

I found a few videos that showed how to set the camera up.

This video is Part 1 of a Scarlet-X review by Cinema 5D. It points out the minimum accessories you need if purchasing and basic configuration. Some good points in here about card and battery running times.

This short video was my pick for a good overview about the product and a quick setup guide. Video by

How to use

Part 2 of Cinema 5ds’ review of the Scarlet-X. This video shows using the camera from power up.

This video from ‘Embassy of Cinema’ starts with a basic comparison between the Scarlet-X and the Red Epic. Some helpful points.
More importantly it gives a pretty in depth run down on how to shoot with the Scarlet-X

Reviews

Here are some great reviews that I found while trying to learn how to use the Scarlet-X. Each of these reviews have some decent video reviews/tutorials. Definitely worth a watch if you are looking to learn.

Philip Bloom – Scarlet-X review

Philip Bloom – To buy a Scarlet-X or Not

No Film School – Scarlet-X review

No Film School – A few things you should know

Scarlet-X vs Canon 5D Mark II shootout – Video – great for DSLR fans

Scarlet-X vs Canon C300 – Video – Film Riots Technical comparison.
They point out they haven’t used either camera. The comparison is still extremely good. Haven’t found a better video yet.

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