Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera

Blackmagic Design has released a new camera for its already impressive line up. Packed in an elegant and sleek design that can fit in your pocket, this camera has a slew of fantastic features. It provides the high quality and cinematic look that the original Blackmagic cinema camera does but in a compact design that you can take everywhere.

This pocket camera has a super 16 size sensor and has 13 stops of dynamic range. It shoots in 1080HD resolution Pro Res 422 and eventually, with a firmware update, Cinema DNG Raw. It is compatible with micro-thirds lenses, but with an adapter can be compatible with other Super 16 lenses and even further adapted to work with other Canon or Nikon lenses.

Thankfully, this Blackmagic camera records to SD cards, which is quite convenient. The files recorded are in an open file format, which makes it easier to transfer files to your editing software. It also has a 3.5" LCD screen and professional connections. Overall, this camera offers desirable qualities that any filmmaker or videographer would want. What do you think about the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera? Let me know in the comments below. Thanks for reading!

Quick Summary

• Compact, lightweight design
• Why is it important? Great for on the go shooting. You wont get tired holding it and you can cary it anywhere so you dont miss a shot.
• Super 16 Size Sensor
• Why is it important? Super 16 is about 20-40% larger then the regular 16 sensor. It provides fantastic image quality.
• 13 stops of dynamic range
• Why is it important? Have you ever seen a video that looks like video? This is because the camera they used had a limited dynamic range. The wider the range, the more cinematic your images will look. 13 stops is a fantastic range to get that beautiful look you see in the big television shows and films.
• Shoots in 1080HD/Cinema DNG Raw
• Why is it important? Both of these files can be easily transferred to your computer for editing. Some cameras shoot in a file that can not be read by computer programs so they require transcoding. Now you can save time while editing!
• Record to SD cards
• Why is it important? SD card are very popular and easily accessible. They are also cost effective.
• 3.5" LCD Screen
• Why is it important? The clearer the screen, the easier it is to see what you are doing. You can focus better, adjust the light, and make the footage the best it can be BEFORE getting to post.
• Professional connections
• Why is it important? This camera has a micro HDMI, standard mini jack microphone, and a mini jack headphone socket. The more connections the more possibilities for the camera. HDMIs can hook to your computer or even a TV, so you can watch your footage almost anywhere!

Canon 5D Mark III

In my work as a film maker and videographer I come across a lot of equipment. It is virtually impossible to be in this industry and not be versatile. However, one camera that has become a favorite in the videography and photography community is the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. On almost all of the shoots I work on, this camera has made an appearance. But why is it so popular?

Perhaps the most valued feature amongst the community is the 22MP full frame sensor with the Digic 5+ processor, which work together to maintain fine detail in your images. It also has a desirable 61 point autofocus system and an impressive ISO range.  The Canon 5D is the first SLR with in-camera High Dynamic Range shooting, helping the user to get that cinematic look.  The easy to navigate menu doesn't hurt, it is perfect for brisk changes that need to be made for on the go shooting. Photographers can also conveniently compare images side by side in the playback mode.

For videographers, the Canon 5D provides many helpful features. There is a built in headphone socket for easy audio monitoring. The touch screen and dial allows for recording settings such as ISO, shutter speed and aperture to be changes easily and quickly.

Overall, the Canon 5D Mark III is popular for a reason. It arguably produces the most professional and clean images in the DSLR realm. It is powerful, fast, and durable. No matter the gig, weddings, commercials, documentaries or short films, the Canon EOS 5D is incredibly capable of getting the job done.

Why do you like the Canon EOS 5D Mark III? Let me know in the comments below!

Pentax K-3 Overview

As I've mentioned before, until recently I hadn't heard much about Pentax DSLRs. They are not mentioned heavily in the videography/photography community (at least where I live) so it has pretty much flown under the radar for me. Nevertheless, Pentax is still very much relevant and has released a new camera to add to its product line. The Pentax K-3 comes packed with upgraded and innovative features. Ironically, the photo of the week was shot on a Pentax K-5II, which makes this overview fitting.

The Pentax K-3 is the successor of the Pentax K-5II and improves on many of its features. The Pentax brand has been known to strike out on it's own when it comes to the DSLR industry. The brand tries to be "different" then Nikon and Canon, by offering features that are usually included on much more expensive cameras at a DSLR price. The Pentax K-3 is no different, as it comes with a brand new APS-C sensor, improved autofocus and metering systems, and a larger LCD screen.

There was also some notable attention paid to the video capabilities, by adding a record button for quick shooting, and also mic and headphone inputs that allow for controlling audio levels. The frame rate has been updated as well, from 1080/25p to 1080/60i (great for video).

Also, the Pentax K-3 is wi-fi capable, which is a new feature we are starting to see more of in the market. Canon recently released the Canon EOS 70D which also has wi-fi capabilities. Owners can now remotely control the camera with any device that has a web browser on it. There are also two slots for SD cards. 

But perhaps the most innovative feature of them all is the anti-aliasing toggle. In every DSLR up until now the low-pass, or anti-aliasing feature was automatic, and so resolution and sharpness were sacrificed from time to time. For the first time ever, a DSLR camera offers on-demand anti-aliasing. Now, photographers are allowed to choose when they want a low-pass filter and when they don't. There are also two versions, so the user can decide on the strength of the filter as well. This is truly innovative, and I won't be surprised if other brands follow suit.

So the Pentax brand is here to stay, and is offering very relevant features to the working photographer or videographer.

Want to read more about it? Check it out on the Pentax site.

Nikon 1 AW1-The First of Its Kind

Nikon has just released a new digital camera! This may not sound like news to you but what makes this one so special is the fact that it has interchangeable lenses.  It is the first of its kind, and there are two dedicated lenses that can be used underwater. Still not impressed? Well it’s is also waterproof, shockproof, and freeze proof.

The Nikon 1 AW1 is compact, which is perfect for those who are traveling. And the waterproof, shockproof, and freeze proof design allows for photographers to expand their possibilities. You can now take your camera to the mountains or the beach and not worry as much.  The camera also comes equipped with a super high-speed AF CMOS sensor, an advanced Auto focus system, and a new EXPEED 3A image-processing engine.

It has a variety of functions to make outdoor shooting simpler, like an outdoor display option that allows the user to read menus/options easier. If you want to shoot underwater, there is a new underwater creative mode where the user can choose between three different underwater options.

This camera has exciting features that open the door of possibilities just a little bit wider for photographers. Starting this month, the Nikon 1 AW1 will be offered as a one-lens kit with the AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6. There will also be a two-lens kit available that has both AW lenses.

Have you used this equipment or plan to? Let me know in the comments below!

Canon EOS 70D

Hey Everyone,

The Canon EOS 70D is the latest addition to the Canon EOS line. It is the upgrade from the former, Canon 60D, and has some key feature differences.

One feature warranting a lot of attention is the brand new, 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor. With a complete different design, no other EOS camera been equipped with such a high resolution sensor. The 70D is also equipped with a DIGIC 5+ processor, the same that is used in the beloved Canon 5D Mark III. The two work together to produce professional quality images, perfect for the prosumer!

But perhaps the most prized feature of all is the autofocus. The 70D has an outstanding autofocus feature that allows the user to track moving subjects with ease. This is a definite upgrade of any previous EOS Cameras. It can assist any photographer or videographer in keeping their subject of choice in view no matter how far or close they move to the camera (within reason of course!)

In addition, the camera offers a built-in flash and wi-fi technology. The wi-fi allows photographers to send images to a smartphone or tablet that have the Canon EOS app. This is great for sending projects quickly and simply.

Overall, the Canon 70D has much to offer and is a positive addition to the Canon EOS line. The cost for the body alone is $1,199, not bad for a camera with such versatility.