A 4K Cinema Camera Under $3,000?

Filming something that has the same quality of the big screen is a big deal. Being an independent filmmaker and having such a camera is everyone’s dream. How about this dream becoming a reality? Black Magic Design is an electronic company founded in 1984 from Australia. The uniqueness of this company has been re-defining the cinema industry with ground-breaking cameras at great prices!

I have recently had the opportunity to use the Black Magic 2.5K Cinema Camera and was blown away from the visuals and ability to have 13 stops of dynamic range. This camera is at an incredible deal of only $1,994! But just when I though it couldn’t be any better, Black Magic Design came out with a 4K under $3,000! 4K Resolution!

                                                       (Photo From www.BlackMagicDesign.com)

For those of you who don’t know what 4K means, it’s a measurement of resolution from the camera of being 3840x2160. That’s 8,294,400 pixels to play with! It’s also shot flat and enables the editor to have a wider range of dynamics to really boost and color correct on a whole other level.  

                                     (This graph from Wikipedia demonstrates the difference of resolution)

The 4K has changed its sensor from the 2.5K by making it a super 35 sensor. This enables a closer feel and look as to what the lens is suppose to show. With the older 2.5K the sensor has a crop that really makes most shots tighter than what the lens is suppose to show. This 35 sensor will have a much better look for the lenses that are wanted.

Another great aspect of the camera is the lens mounts. Any EF Compatible Lens will fit on the camera. Unlike other Cinema Cameras that require special Cinema style lenses, this camera works with your typical DSLR style lenses. This is a great feature, especially for filmmakers looking to save money on lenses.

The 4K BMCC records on SSD! This enables the camera to record all of its massive information quickly. The 240GB SSD can record up to 36 minutes and the 480GB SSD can record up to 72 minutes.

The camera also has a back screen that is completely touch screen. From the screen you’re able to change the display settings, to different shutter speeds and F stops, ect... The side of the camera features numerous inputs for Thunderbolt connection, ¼” Jack for the Mic inputs. There is a 12V to 30V DC input, a 3.5mm headphone input, and a LANC remote control.

So if you’re a filmmaker looking to make a splash into the 4K world, definitely give this camera a shot! Coming from only using the 2.5K camera, I can tell there are many similarities to both cameras. However, the resolution along with sensor difference really sweetens the deal! The only thing that I have a complaint with the 2.5K was the battery. It would die somewhat quickly. I’m anxious to see if  the same goes for this battery. In the end, I love Black Magic Design and all of the innovations they are working on. I’m a fan and I’m sure you will be too. Check out more details of the camera at www.blackmagicdesign.com 
You can purchase the 2.5K Black Magic Cinema Camera Here!

Wisdom From A Church Media Director

I was fortunate to complete my required internship this summer at Christian Life Assembly. The internship involved creating videos for the church and join in the creative team processes. After I graduate from VFCC, I'm planning to work for a church or Christian organization in the film world. But, what does it take to work in a unique environment such as a Church? I interviewed my mentor from the internship, and heres how it went.

Me: " How did you get started in the digital media field?"

Richard: "I began doing video work for my high school, recording and producing the annual school musicals, football games, etc."

Me: "Did you attend a college/university before this job and if so what did you study?"

Richard: " I attended Montgomery College and the University of Maryland receiving my degree in Communication-Video Production. After graduating, I did not use my degree for almost 13 years when I began working in the church."

Me: " What is a typical day in the office look like?"

Richard: "Most days are spent multi-tasking in five areas. Pre-production of upcoming services, post production on past services, volunteer management, equipment maintenance, administrative tasks (email, phone calls)

Me: "What is a goal you have for yourself in this field of work?"

Richard: "To continue to use the latest in technology to reach the world for Jesus Christ, keeping in mind that the message is not changing, only the method."

Me: "Is there anything you know now that you wished you knew getting started?"

Richard: "That a vast majority of the leadership (pastoral staff, deacon/elder boards) in the church do not have any idea what or how to use digital media, but think they know everything. This creates an unnecessary level of stress and conflict when dealing with personnel and budget requests."

Me: " What’s your advice to anyone looking into working for the church in media?"

Richard: "Confirm that the church has a digital media plan (audio, video, lighting, photography, web, apps, and social media). During the interview process, make sure you confirm this with more than one staff/board member. If there is a plan, then confirm that the church is prepared to budget between 7-10% of the annual operating budget for the entire church, in the areas of digital media. Digital media is a continuing cycle of maintenance, upgrades and advancements. You must be flexible, and the church must be flexible."

In recap, here's a video I was able to produce for the church to promote their digital media ministries.

Click here for video.

Hope this post is able to spark some interest in those who want to work in a church! Don't forget to leave a comment below!