Blackmagic Micro Cinema Camera – Tiny 12-bit RAW Camera with (NO) Global Shutter

April 14^th, 2015

by Sebastian WöberApril 14^th, 2015

Blackmagic Design just introduced the Blackmagic Micro Cinema Camera and Micro Studio Camera 4K. Both of which target the camera market along the lines of GoPro.

Obviously aerial and gimbal movement is becoming very popular among serious filmmakers and videographers recently, even Arri went into the market of small and lightweight designs with their Arri ALEXA Mini.

The new cameras by Blackmagic are seriously tough competition to any manufacturer producing small cameras for cinematic images. They capture 12-bit RAW inside a tiny form factor.

The Blackmagic Micro Cinema Camera has a super16 sized sensor ~~and has a global shutter that prevents motion artefacts on drones or other fast paced recordings.~~

[UPDATE: Blackmagic has introduced the camera without the promised global shutter feature]

The Blackmagic Micro Studio Camera 4K has a rolling shutter but the advantage of recording UltraHD internally.

Both cameras feature an expansion port with numerous connection features that let you remote control the camera via existing ATEM hardware or aerial control hardware. It has a single cable S.Bus and 4 PWM channels.

The Blackmagic Micro Cinema Camera is available for pre-order for $995

The Blackmagic Micro Studio Camera 4K is available for pre-order for $1,295

Both cameras are said to ship in July.

Blackmagic Micro Cinema Camera Key Features:

• High resolution 1080 HD, 13 stops of dynamic range.
~~• Switchable 60 fps rolling shutter or 30 fps global shutter.~~
• Features built in 12-bit RAW and ProRes recording and captures true digital film quality images.

• Features an active Micro Four Thirds lens mount. Easily adaptable to other lens mounts.

• Includes built in buttons along the front to quickly and easily change settings.
• Includes an expansion port with a DB-HD15 connector and breakout cable.

Blackmagic Micro Studio Camera 4K Key Features:

Operates up to 2160p30 when operated in Ultra HD or up to 1080p60 when operated in HD.
Supports SDI camera control protocol allowing full remote control vis single SDI connection.
Compatible with high quality Micro Four Thirds lenses. Compatible with other mounts via commonthird party adapters such as B4 broadcast lens mount.
Includes built in buttons along the front for quick access to menu navigation and settings.
Includes a 12V power input or users can add an LP-E6 compatible battery for backup power.
Includes an expansion port with a DB-HD15 connector for power, reference, PTZ and B4 connections.
Expansion port supports multiple control connections such as PTZ serial output, B4 lens data linkoutput and S.Bus input allowing customers to build customized camera control solutions.
Built in, two way digital quality talkback connector using iPhone compatible headsets.
Compatible with ATEM range of live production switchers for full SDI control of cameras.

[UPDATE: Blackmagic has introduced the camera without the promised global shutter feature]