Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, New York

Broadcast live from Times Square, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is one of the most high-profile and time-critical live television events of the year. For the latest edition of the show, Vislink HCAM wireless camera systems supported roaming Steadicam coverage for both the primary ABC broadcast and a multi-network pool feed, operating in cold winter conditions with no margin for error. 

The Event 

New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is a New Year’s Eve broadcast tradition, featuring live performances, celebrity appearances and the iconic countdown to midnight. The programme was broadcast live on ABC, with additional pool feeds distributed to multiple networks including CNN, Univision, FOX and NBC. With millions of viewers watching worldwide, every camera had to perform flawlessly during the most critical moments of the broadcast. 

The Challenge 

Live production in Times Square combines extreme density, tight operating spaces and challenging weather. Steadicam operators must remain highly mobile while delivering smooth, broadcast-grade images in an environment packed with staging, lighting, performers and crowds. 

Cold weather is a persistent challenge for crews working this event. In previous years, freezing temperatures have affected camera and lens operation, while prolonged exposure places physical strain on both crews and equipment. For this broadcast, one Steadicam system was also supporting augmented reality elements, increasing demands on latency, stability and overall wireless performance. In a live countdown to midnight, there is no opportunity for recovery. 

The Solution 

Four Sony P50 cameras were deployed on Steadicams, each paired with a Vislink HCAM wireless transmitter. Three systems supported the ABC broadcast, while a fourth wireless Steadicam delivered performance coverage for the pool feed shared across multiple networks. 

The HCAMs provided low-latency, broadcast-quality wireless transmission, allowing operators to move freely through the Times Square environment while maintaining consistent picture quality in cold, crowded conditions. All equipment was supplied and supported by Aerial Video Systems (AVS), ensuring a robust and well-managed wireless deployment. 

For this year’s broadcast, one Steadicam system was also configured to support augmented reality (AR) content, marking the first time AR has been deployed wirelessly on a Steadicam for New Year’s Rockin’ Eve. The AR-enabled rig incorporated additional hardware, including a 360-degree camera, an additional transmitter and a processing server mounted to the camera sled, enabling technicians to map Times Square and generate live 3D graphics that could be revealed on air as the camera moved through the scene.

Executing the AR shots required careful coordination between the Steadicam operator, on-air talent and the production team, with camera movement and presenter positioning precisely aligned to preserve the illusion in a live environment. Despite the added complexity, the HCAM wireless link delivered the stability and latency performance required to support the AR workflow live on air.

To enhance situational awareness and visual precision, Vislink ViewBack units were also integrated into the HCAM workflow. This allowed Steadicam operators to receive real-time studio return video, including graphics and live on-air output, directly on their camera monitors, supporting tighter visual coordination between the studio and field in a fast-moving, high-pressure broadcast.

“Running AR wirelessly on Steadicam adds a whole new level of complexity,” said Dan Erbeck, Steadicam Operator and Owner of Diamond Steadicam. “HCAM gave us the reliability and flexibility to make it work live, without having to worry about the link. That confidence is what allows you to push into new creative territory.”

The Result 

The broadcast ran smoothly across all networks, with uninterrupted wireless coverage throughout rehearsals and live performances, including the critical moments leading up to midnight. Vislink HCAM systems delivered consistent, reliable live pictures despite cold conditions and the complexity of a multi-broadcaster workflow. 

“On New Year’s Eve, everything comes down to trust,” said Manny Gutierrez, Steadicam Operator with NEP. “You’re working in the cold, in tight spaces, with millions of people watching and no second chances. HCAM just works – it lets us focus on the shot, not the signal.” 

You can follow Manny on LinkedIn and Instagram here, and Dan or LinkedIn and Instagram here.