Here’s a handy tool for a DP’s creative arsenal; a compact Canon 5D that’s been modified to shoot HD video with a set of special Russian-made anamorphic lenses. Think of all the tight places —inside cars, crowded rooms, ventilating ducts— where this camera can be employed. It could even be used while performing stunts.

The camera boasts a big 36 x 24mm sensor and can deliver 1080p HD video in 24, 25 and 30 fps speeds. Takes up to 12 minutes in length can be stored on Compact Flash cards, and the Canon battery has excellent life (typically several hours). It features a Zacuto viewfinder with frame markers, and this silent-recording camera (no fans) can provide 48k manual audio with 2XLR inputs (via adapter).

Clairmont Camera is the exclusive source for this unique hybrid, which provides 2:35 aspect ratio imagery with 35mm, 50mm, 75mm and 100mm anamorphic lenses —all include in the rental package.