Fremont, CA—Blackmagic Design’s next-generation Blackmagic Micro Studio 4K G2 camera retains the ultracompact design of the original model. However, its upgrades include a 4K (4,096×2,160) digital film sensor. Moreover, the new sensor provides 13 stops of dynamic range and dual native ISO up to 25,600 for low-light performance.
“Our customers loved the original Blackmagic Micro Studio Camera 4K and have been asking us for an updated version, said Grant Petty, Blackmagic Design CEO. “We’re excited to bring this camera back better than ever! It’s the same incredibly compact design from the original model, upgraded with new 12G-SDI and 4K HDMI connections; an amazing 4K sensor for cinematic images in live production; and Blackmagic RAW recording.”
Blackmagic Micro Studio 4K G2 Upgrades
The Blackmagic Micro Studio 4K G2 adds 12G-SDI for HD and Ultra HD operation up to 2160p60. It’s also possible to control the camera’s built-in color corrector and lens using the SDI and HDMI connections. In addition, a new USB-C expansion port enables recording Blackmagic RAW to external disks and network control via Ethernet adapters.
The upgraded camera is a solution for placing cameras on set where there is no space for regular-sized cameras. The camera includes the MFT (Micro Four Thirds) lens mount; a very low-light 4K image sensor; as well as cinematic color science. As a result, the diminutive camera has features of a full-sized studio camera. Plus, the camera goes beyond broadcast quality with log gamma, allowing filmmakers to create cinematic color-corrected looks—all in camera.
For anywhere production, the camera has a tough magnesium alloy core in a body that’s not much larger than the lens mount itself. Cinematographers can also use affordable MFT lenses from Olympus, Panasonic and Sigma. Or they can add adapters to work with broadcast lenses. Additionally, the buttons on the front of the camera provide quick access to the settings menu and for triggering recording.
The 4K sensor combines with Blackmagic generation 5 color science to provide the same imaging technology used in digital film cameras. You can even control the color corrector from the switcher. And with 13 stops of dynamic range, the camera has darker blacks and brighter whites—optimal for color correction. The upgraded camera also supports from 23.98 fps up to 60 fps recording.
Connectivity & Power Options
Among the camera’s connectivity options are HDMI, making it a companion for HDMI switchers such as the ATEM Mini. HDMI supports video, tally, control and record trigger for a broadcast-style workflow using a single HDMI cable. Or via 12G-SDI, it connects to SDI-based switchers such as the ATEM Constellation. There’s a 12G-SDI connection for camera video and one for program return. The program return also includes tally, talkback and remote camera control.
What’s more, the camera’s high-speed USB-C expansion port lets filmmakers record to external disks, control the camera via a network, or connect accessories. Plug in an external USB disk and the camera can record 12-bit Blackmagic RAW files for later editing and color correction. That means you can just move the disk to a computer to work—no copying files. Or add a USB-C to Ethernet adapter to control the camera over a network via REST APIs.
There is also a variety of power options. For instance, there’s a common 12V DC locking power connector that eliminates the worry of a cable accidentally being pulled out. The camera also supports a standard LP-E6 compatible battery. Consequently, filmmakers can add a battery for local power backup during live broadcasts. The readily available batteries are kept trickle charged by the camera. In addition, filmmakers can use an adapter to connect the camera to V-Lock batteries for all-day power.
The Blackmagic Micro Studio 4K G2 will ship in October. It will have a suggested retail price of $995.
