Firmware update 1.8 for Blackmagic Cameras

News

by Tim FokJune 24^th, 2014

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After a false start, Blackmagic has released firmware version 1.8 affecting most of their current cameras.

There has been a bit of a debate on the Blackmagic and BMCuser forums after the firmware appeared briefly before disappearing from the official forums. However now version 1.8 makes the front page of blackmagicdesign.com, clearing up concerns of an unofficial release.

Here is what has been changed:

Blackmagic Production Camera 4K

• Updated user interface
• Losslessly compressed RAW DNG recording support
• Addresses an issue where pixel artefacts are seen in edges with strong highlights while shooting in 1080 mode
• Adds autofocus support for compatible EF lenses

Blackmagic Cinema Camera

• Updated user interface
• Adds autofocus support for compatible EF lenses
• Improved debayering when shooting to ProRes or DNxHD
• Improved focus peaking display
• Improved ISO handling when shooting at ISO 1600
• Improved general audio performance
• Iris setting is retained when switching between camera recording and clip playback

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera

• Updated user interface
• Improved performance when recording using internal microphones
• Improved instances where a grid-like pattern may occur in some flare highlights
• General improvements in autofocus with active MFT lenses
• Adds supports for stabilization in MFT lenses without physical O.I.S switches
• Improved support for Sigma MFT lenses
• Improved support for Lumix 12-42mm PZ lens
• Improved support for Olympus 60mm f/2.8 MFT lens
• Iris setting is retained when switching between camera recording and clip playback

Blackmagic Studio Camera

• Improved phantom power compatibility
• Addresses an issue with interlace video being output as progressive video

The main talking point will be the addition of RAW support on the Blackmagic 4K camera, however image improvements for the initial three Blackmagic cameras will be warmly welcomed.

We’re still missing some crucial features, features some would have anticipated in this release. Lets just hope there’s another update not too far around the corner.

What are your thoughts? What would you have like to realistically seen in this update?