Z-Cam Settings Guide
Before capturing your first performance, ensure you have all the necessary equipment ready to configure your Z Camera multi-camera environment. Browse our Equipment List here:
Camera Settings
Before capturing a performance, optimise your Z camera settings via the web browser application. This interface provides the most comprehensive access to the system’s full range of solutions.
Note: Use our tested defaults as a baseline, but don't hesitate to optimise your configuration based on your specific studio environment and capture needs.
Recommended Settings
| Setting | Recommended value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 4K | HD acceptable for smaller volumes |
| Project FPS | 25, 50 or 60 | Match your region: 50 for 50Hz, 60 for 60Hz and determine based on your desired timecode FPS (if using) |
| Variable Frame Rate | 100 or 120 | Match regional FPS guidance: 50/100/200 vs 60/120/240. Use 200/240 for very fast motion |
| Playback Frame Rate | VFR | Always set to VFR |
| Aperture | f/5.6 to f/8 | Start at f/5.6 (6mm lens) or f/8 (10mm lens); adjust based on lighting |
| Shutter | At least double your VFR frame rate | 100fps minimum 1/200; 120fps minimum 1/240 |
| ISO | As low as possible | Max 4000; lower is always better |
| Image Profile | Rec.709 | Do not use log profiles |
| Sharpness | Strong | Helps keypoint detection |
| Noise Reduction | Off | Leave raw image unprocessed |
| WDR | Off | Keep off for mocap |
| Low Jello | Off | Keep off unless severe rolling shutter visible |
| VFR Control | Fine | |
| File Format | MP4 | |
| Encoder | H.264 | H.265 is required for 4K 100 or 120fps |
| Bitrate | High | Always use high bitrate |
| Proxy File | Off | Not needed for mocap |
| Split Duration | 30 mins | Adjust to match typical take length |
| Luminance Level | Limited | Standard broadcast range |
| Flicker Reduction | 50Hz or 60Hz | Match local power grid |
| Metering | Average | |
| Count Up | Free Run | Free Run continues the timecode even when the camera is not recording. |
To master your Z Cam settings and optimize capture for any environment, explore the comprehensive Z Cam E2-M2 Mark II Master Guide.