Blackmagic Camera Update 1.8

The all new code base also improves performance and includes a new modern user interface similar in design to the new URSA camera announced at NAB. Allowing a nice clean fresh look, this new user interface is included in all cameras available from Blackmagic Design.

Blackmagic Camera 1.8 adds compressed RAW DNG support for the Blackmagic Production Camera 4K model, allowing for RAW recording in real time. All sensor data can be captured for more range and much higher image quality when doing post production and color grading. DaVinci Resolve 11, which is also available immediately, fully supports RAW grading and rendering to final output direct from the RAW camera original files. As a result, customers get high quality first generation masters, and are now able to edit RAW files as easily and as responsively as a normal video file.

Othe new features in the update include enhanced lens control support for EF lens mount cameras such as the original Blackmagic Cinema Camera EF and the Blackmagic Production Camera 4K models. Users can now use the AF function by pushing the focus button on active EF based lenses. The cameras will then mathematically analyze the center of the image and optimize the focus for maximum sharpness.

This is particularly important with high resolution 4K cameras where images are so sharp that accurate focus is critical for the best results. Because this update uses the focus button for the AF function, focus peaking is now enabled by double pressing the button.

The new software release also improves the focus peaking display allowing accurate and super sharp manual focus, which is critical when using cine lenses. The focus peaking is now green in color so it’s much easer to see, and the filters generating the edge peaking have been optimized for better detection and display for maximum sharpness. In addition, the iris control has been changed, due to customer request, to hold its setting between record and playback.

Other major improvements for the original Blackmagic Cinema Camera models include enhancements of the camera’s dynamic range, improved audio performance and a completely rewritten new higher quality de-bayer processor.