Blackmagic Pocket Cinema shoots in RAW

Blackmagic Design has released version 1.5 of its Blackmagic Camera software, adding 12-bit Log CinemaDNG RAW recording.

The wide dynamic range of RAW allows users of this camera to capture the brightest highlights and darkest shadows simultaneously, gathering more information than is usual with regular video cameras. This format also allows for much better exposure manipulation and adjustment in the post-production process.

The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera uses CinemaDNG RAW, a lossless compression codec that works in a similar way to a ZIP file. RAW files are compressed during recording without loss in any part of the image, so quality is maintained when decompressed.

These files are fully compatible with therecently released DaVinci Resolve 10 color correction system. Although they are a standard format, not all software is capable of opening them, although this will gradually increase. With the free DaVinci Resolve Lite version, users can easily convert their files to editing codecs such as ProRes or DNxHD to make them compatible with Avid Media Composer, Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere.

Key features of the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera include a Super 16mm sensor with a resolution of 1080HD, a dynamic range of 13 stops, compatibility with MFT (Micro Four Thirds) lenses, an LCD screen for menus, metadata input and monitoring. In addition, there is also the option to capture in ProRes 422 (HQ), in “video” or “film” modes.

This camera is priced at $995 and the upgrade for Blackmagic Camera 1.5 is now available for free from the Blackmagic Design website.

And if you are interested in Blackmagic products you can’t miss the next DaVinci Resolve course. It will be held on December 16, 17 and 18 in the afternoons. Here you have the link with all the information.