Atomos Recorders: Why do I Use Them?

Will an Atomos Ninja Inferno or Shogun make your video footage look 10 times better? Probably not, but I have found that the Atomos recorders are great tools which make getting better footage easier, more efficient, and in some cases you really can get better footage. In this episode we cover how Atomos recorders help filmmakers.
Links to Gear Discussed and Used to Record This Session:
----------------------------------
Atomos Ninja Inferno (UHD up to 60 fps, HDMI input, HDR)
Amazon: geni.us/dkj1cQr
B&H: bhpho.to/2v7qjMa
----------------------------------
Atomos Shogun Inferno (UHD up to 60 fps, HDMI and SDI inputs, HDR)
Amazon: geni.us/8lITyu
B&H: bhpho.to/2uN7zz8
----------------------------------
Atomos Shogun Flame (UHD up to 30 fps, HDMI and SDI inputs, HDR)
Amazon: geni.us/N9Wc
B&H: bhpho.to/2v7fHgA
----------------------------------
Atomos Ninja Flame (UHD up to 30 fps, HDMI input, HDR)
Amazon: geni.us/YN8b51F
B&H: bhpho.to/2uMYZR2
----------------------------------
Atomos Ninja II (HD up to 30 fps, HDMI input)
Amazon: geni.us/U8g7G
B&H: bhpho.to/2kBjz0S
----------------------------------
G-Technology SSD Drive with Atomos Master Caddy (made for the latest gen Atomos recorders)
Amazon: geni.us/GDySUSh
B&H: bhpho.to/2vww1VV
----------------------------------
Panasonic GH5 Camera
Amazon: geni.us/Efb6r
B&H: bhpho.to/2oIdG7o
----------------------------------
Panasonic 12-35mm f/2.8 OIS Lens
Amazon: geni.us/NbS3jK4
B&H: bhpho.to/2qLWz1Q
----------------------------------
Olympus 45mm f/1.8 Lens
Amazon: geni.us/ZBKI
B&H: bhpho.to/2jJDVEw
----------------------------------
Copyright 2017 by Curtis Judd
Ethics statement: Some of the links above are Amazon.com, B&H Photo, or other affiliate links.

[@planetmarine]

The quick summary at the beginning is GREAT . I usually stick around, because I lean much .... But I wish more KZbinrs did such synopsis. √

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@produccionesonpex]

Agreed!

[@huebys]

agreed!

[@OrianIglesias]

I couldn't agree more. Excellent.

[@wcsdiaries]

@@curtisjudd LOVED THE SUMMARY in the beginning thank you

[@redkamatis]

That's a cool rubber band trick for panning @ 8:46

[@curtisjudd]

Haha, yes, learned that from +RayOrtega a few years back. My pans have been a lot smoother ever since.

[@joeschlicht]

Yes, I noticed that and thought it was genius.

[@matrixate]

I remember that trick too a few years back. It was meant for people that couldn't afford a fluid head but I also use that on my fluid head and it works like an insurance policy for smooth pans. However, I use two rubber bands because it's happened where the single one broke on my. That eliminated the issue.

[@thedave7760]

@@matrixate To pan smoothly without rubber bands then forget the pan handle and grab the base of the head and turn from there. Low to medium friction settings it works great with long lens shots.

[@chumcool]

That rubber band trick has been around since the 1700's

[@listeningpix]

Really appreciate the "summary-up-front" format, Curtis. It's really helpful and I wish everyone would use that format for review videos.

[@curtisjudd]

+10x.film thanks, I appreciate the feedback!

[@brentthomasaustin]

Subscribed for how fast and concise you are. Hard to find on KZbin or anywhere else really

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Baustin

[@dilmerv]

I love Atomos recorders and it changed my content so much, it just looks so professional.

[@curtisjudd]

All these years later, we still use them at work.

[@dilmerv]

@@curtisjudd great to know thanks !

[@dianashypula]

Thank you Curtis! This information is actual even 4 year later!

[@curtisjudd]

You're most welcome! Happy filming!

[@EposVox]

VERY thorough and insightful. Thanks!!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@nicolasherreraw7591]

One of the Most complete reviews I've seen about the Atomos recorders, congrats! I would just like seeing more info about the flame and the 5" recorder and their differences comparing them to the Blackmagic recorder as well. Thanks

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Nicolas! Thanks for the feedback. I'll see if I can get my hands on those for review.

[@savedbybravado4382]

Loved this video and your explanations, I've always wondered why I would get one of these but when you pointed out the stress that movement puts on a codec as you showed us the waterfall I was sold on the concept of using external recorders. Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@50450720]

Cheers Curtis. I use the smallrig cage with my atomos ninja flame. It's great value, not too heavy. And it ads threaded mount points.

[@curtisjudd]

Good info, thanks for sharing that!

[@haurjie]

Oh my goodness, I just spotted a really neat thing you did in this video. Panning shots with a rubberband?! I can't believe I've never thought about that. I've been holding my breath and straining myself over trying to get the smoothest panning shots for my B-rolls.

[@curtisjudd]

👍🏻

[@77pixels64]

8:57 - Using a rubber band for a smooth pan = mind blown!!!

[@curtisjudd]

🤯

[@digi-dreams]

I appreciate your creating the content in the beginning for people on the go like myself.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@ChrisLeeX]

"and you are now dismissed" - you captured my attention so well, that threw me off :)

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@nmonye01]

I love the ease of editing from the ssd!

[@curtisjudd]

Me too!

[@PostColorGear]

Thanks for pointing out the reasoning behind purchasing one, and not just the specs. Very helpful. I did notice that Atomos is great with their web site and which SSD and even cameras are supported. I was impressed to see that my Olympus personal camera was supported haha (although it makes sense, because it's clean HDMI) - oh and youre right. Those codecs are amazing for editing and totally avoids having to transcode.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Dave. Yes, their site is actually quite useful and easy to get around. I appreciate that about them. Good to hear on the Olympus support! It'll be awesome to see that ProRes or DNxHR footage from the Oly!

[@CarlosWilders]

I've been going back and forth about purchasing the Shogun Inferno. This video really helped. I currently own the SmallHD 700 series. I was intending on using the Shogun for filming in 4K for longer periods of time then my current 64GB Cfast 2.0 cards. Not to mention SSDs are cheaper.

[@curtisjudd]

Good reasons to move to an external recorder for sure. Good luck!

[@wcsdiaries]

LOVED THE SUMMARY in the beginning thank you

[@curtisjudd]

You bet! 👍

[@jantestowy123]

That rubber tip just made my pans better 😊 thnak you :)

[@curtisjudd]

Haha, yeah, that's one I believe I picked up from +RayOrtega years ago. Pretty handy idea.

[@produccionesonpex]

It is an AWESOME IDEA!,...so useful !

[@JeffRemasPhotography]

Great information as always. Very well put together and professional which gives the viewer a lot more confidence in your views and opinions. Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Jeff!

[@mathieusimard]

Loved the summary at the start, so clever.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@officerockstar]

I appreciate the executive summary at the beginning.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Jeremy. That was a lesson learned after plenty of feedback on previous episodes. :)

[@Glen.Danielsen]

Metal case might add a bit of weight, especially for a gimbal. Super helpful video, Curtis! God bless you, from the Saints in Southern California. :)

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, too much for gimbal! God bless you too!

[@AlexPower]

Thanks for the detailed overview, it helped me a lot ! I think I'm gonna go with Atomos Ninja Inferno to pair with my GH5.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Alex! I hope you find it as useful as I have!

[@seankirkland2476]

Great video Curtis. Thanks for creating this. I have a canon c100 and I was wondering if you know where the control resides when an atomos is connected to it? Which setting overrides the other? Once I connect a shogun for example: Which has control over the exposure, frame rate, etc? Is the Atomos controlling everything or do I still need to adjust settings in the camera? How can I learn about which device controls which setting?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Sean, the camera always retains control of all of its settings. The Atomos recorders are smart enough to adapt to the frame rate and resolution that is sent from the camera via HDMI. So the camera continues to control exposure and frame rate and everything else. The Atomos just lets you bring up scopes to help you make the best possible settings on the camera.

[@moreapropos]

Thank you for being such a responsive You Tuber! I had one more question.On the recorder, you have the Atomos HDR slider, which allows you to see how the image would appear on an HDR display. But aren't we still a few years away from most people having HDR displays? So my question is: What is the point of viewing in HDR if most people have SD displays? How the image appears on the Atomos display doesn't not affect your actual exposure, does it? In other words, for most situations, wouldn't you want to display without using the HDR slider? Otherwise, you are not really seeing what most people are going to see. You are only seeing what someone might see on an HDR screen or TV.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Flying High! Yes, that is a matter of some confusion. Even if you're not planning to finish your video in HDR, knowing whether your highlights are clipped is very helpful if you plan to grade and sculpt the final look of your video for SDR viewing. This allows you to prevent blown highlights or at least make calculated decision about how much of the highlights you're willing to clip to get the look you want.

[@sdzielinski]

Another informative video! Great work, Curtis.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Stephen!

[@matrodmedia]

*Serious Inquiry for you Curtis: Have you considered the Pix-E series instead? It has most-to-all of the same features you love about the Atomos recorders, along with a 5" option as well as 7", AND build quality is bomb-proof out of the box withOUT any additional cage accessories. Not to mention the amazing option of using physical clicks buttons on the front of the device. Only thing the Pix-E recorders don't have that you enjoy on the Atomos systems is an HDR capable display, and the ability to record 4K60p (as far as I know the current Pix-E recorders don't do that). Not to mention the VideoDevices unit has a couple of other cool little tricks like their tap-zoom thing which I use ALL-THE-TIME. I understand that the same action can be done on other units, but, their implementation on the Pix-E recorders is much smoother (IMO). I guess my biggest "gripe" with the newest Atomos recorder monitors that I've used, is just the build man. Yes, the plastic is high-quality. But "professional" to me means drop-and-still-usability. Not to mention their nifty little "speed-drive" system! And, one last thing I promise; once you add a heavy cage to the Atomos monitors, the "lightweight" trait of the Atomos recorders is kinda moot. Just some food for thought. :) Lmk what you [truthfully] think, if you get to reading this! *

[@curtisjudd]

Hi matron, I definitely have thought of the PixE series. In fact I interviewed Jon at Video Devices at NAB a couple years ago: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYLVn2VmZb5_pNU There are many things I like about the Pix E but a couple that gave me pause. The media that the Pix E use didn't seem as easy to source as SSD drives. What has been your experience with that? The screen does not have the HDR brightness range of the newest generation Atomos recorders which is a big deal when working outdoors. And as you mention, they also do not record 4k60p. Those were the only things that gave me pause. The UI looked great, the fact that there was no fan and the build quality was solid, I like that. The PiXLR looked like a nice addition as well. Unfortunately, they hit the market after I had already purchased the original shogun.

[@jklaiho]

Great video once again! I actually had no idea you could use an Atomos recorder as a grading monitor with Resolve. How does this work? I suppose you just connect the Mac to it via HDMI out, but then what? What do you need to do in OS X display settings and/or Resolve? It would be great if you could shed some light into how it's done. I have a Ninja Blade, and if I were to calibrate it with an i1Display Pro, do you think the screen on it would be good enough to be used like this?

If you could make a video about this topic, would be awesome!

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, will cover that in an upcoming episode. It does require a Thunderbolt hardware monitoring converter from Blackmagic Design or similar. I use the BMD Ultrastudio Mini Monitor: bhpho.to/2v8EWz6 Strangely, it only works via SDI. Couldn't get the HDMI to work but I think that's a Blackmagic issue, not an Atomos issue. More to come.

[@NjorogeMuigai]

Spot on as usual. great insights

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Njoroge!

[@robertsaca3512]

Still have my (I think) Ninja 1 that I used with my D800, still going strong, so I wouldn't worry about the plastic vase 'issue'.

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@ericleszkowicz898]

Great explanation about what matters and doesn’t matter.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Eric

[@RKRK-ci2vv]

Great video and very informative . Thank you Curtis

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks rk.

[@HuFilms]

Nice video Curtis. I've always liked the look of these recorders, I somehow thought the were built a bit tougher. I think the Small HD stuff might be a bit tougher.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Hugh, thanks! They're workable and I haven't broken either of mine yet despite all the mileage they have on them. But metal like they use on the Ninja II would be nice on the newer models.

[@JohnDoe-ev9kt]

I am going to coin the term "Judd Format". That's where a presenter talks just a bit fast ( Three cappuccinos ? ) and gives a brief info packed summary up front, THEN more detail in the following video. I sure hope that catches on across KZbin. Thanks !!

[@curtisjudd]

Haha! Thanks John!

[@Cactustone]

Great video! I particularly liked learning about the codec options and how they equate to smooth editing, even in UHD. My question would be: which Atomos, and which codec do you recommend for UHD on the older GH4? Cheers!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Ben, I usually shot with the ProRes 422 codec when I was shooting the GH4. You can bump it up to HQ for super critical clips, but I almost always found 422 to be plenty.

[@Cactustone]

Thanks, Curtis!

[@MrAtsyhere]

I am old school photography so at 9.5 minutes into the video your looking at Waveforms on a device that costs many hundreds of dollars. My Old school response to that high range of exposure is not to look for electronic gizmos but spin on a ND filter on the lens and possibly a gradient Conkin filter on the left half. Total Costs would be about a hundred dollars or less, I see them at Flea Markets.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Glen, ND filters are still necessary, even with expensive electronic gizmos. Gradient filters can be useful as well but I’ve encountered many situations where they don’t work because there isn’t a linear horizon line. The ATOMOS recorders are not for everyone. But I find them very useful for understanding exactly where the various parts of the frame sit in terms of exposure.

[@GurmeetSingh-fr8uo]

I am thinking to get the Atomos Ninja V+ for my Sony A7SIII

[@curtisjudd]

Could be a useful tool.

[@djw1091994]

You think we can get an update to this? Maybe comparing the Ninja, Shogun, and BlackMagic Video Assist?

[@curtisjudd]

Good idea. The interesting thing is that with the newer cameras I've been using - Pocket 6K and Canon C70 - I haven't found a need for external recorders. But the story is still pretty much the same with the newer ATOMOS and BMD recorders: For smaller cameras, this adds a big screen, some very nice exposure tools, and some good recording codecs, especially if your camera can feed raw via HDMI.

[@djw1091994]

@@curtisjudd gotcha thanks!

[@radu0015]

Can you also make a video about the codecs you use? I just bought a Ninja V and i can't figure out how to edit with them, with what codec to record, and what codec to use for rendering. I use davinci resolve as NLE.

[@curtisjudd]

I use ProRes HQ. When exporting, usually that will be to H.264 or H.265 depending on where you will send your video for viewing.

[@johnerwin7715]

Great and informative video.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks John.

[@Titoo933]

You can do a video explaining the HDR function more in detail? How to expose correctly, etc... I have the GH5 and the Ninja Inferno and I dont get the point...

[@curtisjudd]

+Titomixx yes! kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIPGYaeFiaeKq9k

[@thelinthicums3295]

Very well done, as always. Thumbs up.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@produccionesonpex]

As always, great video with so much useful info. And I see that you use the old-fashioned, but always effective, rubber-band trick for panning,...NICE! ;-)

[@curtisjudd]

+Omar Patin haha! Yes, still a great technique for smoothing out this pans!

[@produccionesonpex]

Without question!. I use it all the time. My tripod cases always have a spare ration of rubber bands !

[@ElClubdeRick]

I'm actually use a canon 60D for all my works... I'm thinking of buying a monitor recorder, but I do not know which one. Black Magic Video assist or Atomos (but i dont know which... Ninja, Blame, inferno...). Geart work with you content!! Helps me a lot :)

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Rick, thanks! One note, I’m not sure that the 60D is capable of sending a full resolution, clean feed via HDMI so recording and monitoring of the HDMI signal doesn’t work very well, unfortunately. The 60D is a good camera, one that I used and loved for several years. But unfortunately a little older and doesn’t support clean HDMI feeds. Good luck!

[@ElClubdeRick]

Curtis Judd Thanks for the feedback :)

[@micahturner5599]

Do you have a video where you go over the setup of mix pre 6 or 10t, ghx or other prosumer camera and atomos recorder? I come from a photography background and while I understand the main components I'm still fuzzy what cords plug into what sockets between the three devices

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Micah, I don't have a single video with all of this, but here's one walking through how to send audio from the MixPre to a GH5: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKS4louqrdiUa5I Once you've done that, then you just run an HDMI cable from the camera to the ATOMOS recorder. Best wishes!

[@ChrisFrancia]

thanks so much for the 'quick run down' at the beginning! much appreciated!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@GrimReacts]

great video! thanks so much, man.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Cruxal

[@chrisklugh]

Can I use my existing wifi app/tablet with GH5 to control the camera while recording to the Atomos?

[@curtisjudd]

Confirmed - just tried it with my GH5s and ATOMOS Sumo and the Panasonic app. The screen on the camera blanked out, which I haven't experienced before, but that may be another setting.

[@aliasthegroove]

Great video Curtis! Very Informative I've been seriously considering an external recorder, as I would love to record pro res 4.2.2 Unfortunately my camera only outputs 8bit and I shoot mostly run and gun so weight is an issue Still undecided, but great video none the less.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@scotthimel3650]

Hey Curtis, thanks for answering my question more thoroughly about why to buy an Atomos recorder! Something you didn't address was the fact that, even though the Atomos can record HDR, so many clients won't be able to view HDR content. That's what ultimately caused me not to purchase it. When do you think most people will have HDR-capable TVs/monitors?

[@TheTechnoPilot]

Scott Himel I would mention you need to remember that the HDR functionality is not so much in what it can record for your client, but instead how you can view your image at time of capture. To output an REC2020 HDR luminance and colour space it is up to you to process the log image in post. The HDR function simply allows you to view a vibrant contrasty image while still judging exposure properly to take advantage of the full dynamic range of your camera.

[@scotthimel3650]

TheTechnoPilot thx for reply. Yes, I grasp all that, but why do I care about HDR exposure unless I'm going to output a REC2020 file, which I'm not? We'll be lucky if by 2020 most people have HDR. Some will, but I think that we'll need more time before your average home is HDR ready. Now, perhaps it makes sense to record HDR for more creative flexibility in post, but the head-shot videos I do don't require that much flexibility. Someone doing more action or nature stuff could benefit from that, I suppose.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Scott, I generally don't shoot my interview and talking head clips with V-Log, but much of my b-roll is shot with V-Log and that's where the Atom HDR feature becomes really helpful at exposing correctly. I'm not finishing in HDR at this point, but I definitely like to ensure that I capture the least noise (which is critical with log exposure) and the most dynamic range which I then grade to SDR.This way I avoid most clipping issues (both highlights and shadows). I'm not sure when HDR will become something that most people have access to for viewing and consuming content, but I am a lot more excited about HDR than I was about 3D or than I am about VR or 8K. There seem to be more practical, meaningful applications for HDR than for 8K from my perspective.

[@scotthimel3650]

Excellent reflections, Curtis. Most helpful! I've learned a lot from you over the course of the last year. You've also lowered my bank account a good bit with all the tech you feature, haha!

[@davefinn5628]

Brilliant as always. You called out NPF batteries, what about powered by a larger V-lock battery, shoulder rig? Any concerns doing that?

[@curtisjudd]

Works great with my original Shogun, an Anton Bauer Gold Mount and an NPF to d-tap dummy battery made specifically for the Atomos recorders.

[@OgDj2024]

Can this device extend record time for cameras that have 30 minutes recording limit??

[@curtisjudd]

Yes

[@sungyenlai4807]

Hi, I have a question. Why they give me some plastic master caddies? Are these plastic caddies only for protection?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, and to help them lock in a bit more securely than just the drive would on its own.

[@demoymm]

Hello excellent video I have an inferno I use it in a video clip and I have noise in the image that can cause this

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Diego, usually noise comes from the camera unless the HDMI cable has gone bad. Almost always it is the camera set at a very high ISO.

[@johnolson8386]

Great video, Curtis. Thanks. Not sure if you're still tracking this video / comment thread. But thought I'd give it a shot. I have a Ninja Flame working from the HDMI out on a C100, Mk II. Works great. I have a requirement for a second "just a monitor" monitor, at a different viewing angle. I bought a SmallHD Focus for that purpose. The Focus runs great direct out of the C110, M II HDMI out, but will not run when "daisy chained" through the Ninja Flame separate HDMI In/Out ports. In other words, HDMI out of the C100 to the Ninja Flame HDMI In (via one of the ATOMOS hi-end HDMI cable). And then HDMI out from the Flame to HDMI In on the Focus. I have Google'd extensively for the answer on why this doesn't work (Focus screen just fitzes like an old analog CRT TV.) I'm sure its a setting on either the Flame or the Focus, but I can't figure it out. Thoughts? Many thanks. Keep up the great work.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi John, that’s a situation I haven’t encountered, to be honest. I’d probably contact ATOMOS support. Good luck!

[@johnolson8386]

Thanks for the reply. Will do. I did contact SmallHD, thinking they could tell me what type of HDMI signal their device needed to see, but no luck. I'll go the other direction to the ATOMOS folks. All the best, John

[@curtisjudd]

I hope they're able to help, John. Good luck!

[@stevensmith1192]

Hey curtis what is the attachment called that you are using from your camera to your monitor?

[@curtisjudd]

Friction arm?

[@AdvaitThakur]

Very fine cut @12:55 :) That was nice. I like your reviews. But time I like it more, they way you dismissed after the quick review. Looking to use Atomos in my next project after watching this review.

[@curtisjudd]

+Advait Thakur thanks Advait!

[@SebHazel]

Since the Sony A7 cameras only output 8bit 4:2:2 is there any reason getting anything other than the ninja flame in terms of recording quality? Thanks

[@curtisjudd]

Going with one of the higher spec'd Atomos recorders may give you more years of service for when the Sony cameras can do more (and higher frame rates, etc).

[@cinamaticproductions]

the Sony records 4:2:0 internally, so you have more colour info if you use the external recording with a Sony. its still 8bit but its 4:2:2 instead of 4:2:0. so definitely a good reason

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, true. The extra color info is not generally a night and day sort of difference but can help when keying or color grading.

[@HeathcliffBlair]

Useful video as always. Thanks. I've noticed some pretty nasty motion artifacts in the GH4/GH5 cameras where even moderately fast subjects will produce a strobing/smearing motion blur effect as they move across the frame. It's generally accepted that this is a codec limitation issue. Even though the GH5 400mbs All-I update may solve this, I'm still seriously considering an external recorder. Curtis, I wonder if you have noticed a clear improvement regarding this specific strobing artifact when using the Atomos.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Heathcliff, I haven't done any formal tests with the GH5 and motion, but I have definitely seen such issues with other lower bit-rate footage from other cameras in the past. I'll endeavor to do that next time I find myself in a situation where I can.

[@HeathcliffBlair]

Thanks Curtis. In my experience, the effect is most noticeable (certainly emotionally) when performers (actors/dancers) wipe frame - the motion effect resembles a momentary drop in frame rate, say 25fps to 15, although it has nothing to do with frame rates directly. As I said, it's probably the Long GOP codec struggling to handle movement in 4K. Pretty nasty and it can take you out of the emotional moment. Thanks again.

[@curtisjudd]

That makes sense and I will be interested to see how the All-I codec manages this. Should be at least somewhat more effective.

[@timbeaton5045]

Yep, another excellent video. Been a subscriber for a while, and i feel that i have learnt an awful lot from your channel. My question... As a Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera user, i wondered if you have tried out the BM Video Assist models, and if so how do they compare to the Atomos?I guess the 7" model is the most similar to the Inferno, but it seems that it uses SD cards only... no SSD recording, which i guess is a bit of a minus point, now that, as you say, SSD prices have come down a lot. Any thoughts?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Tim, I haven't used the BMD Video Assist. I've been quite happy with my Ursa Mini Pro and appreciate what BMD does in terms of adding features via firmware. Will have to see if I can get my hands on one of the Video Assists...

[@timbeaton5045]

Would be nice to hear your opinion if you do. Thinking about something along these lines, Although the BMPCC does record Prores and Raw, it is limited to SD cards. and the screen is small, too!

[@EvanFotis]

I'd second a comparison between the 4K video assist and the Atomos used with the GH5

[@j.r.regenold9094]

Does the microphone jack, like in the Ninja 5 act as a camera mic jack? If it can it would really help me simplify my shoots

[@curtisjudd]

Hi J.R., I believe so I but I haven't tested the Ninja V yet. will cover that when we get a copy in for review.

[@GeneWaddle]

I'm not in a position to move to 4K at this time and have been considering getting a Ninja Star. I didn't know if you've used one, but my impression is that it's basically a Ninja 2 without a screen. Do you happen to know if that would be accurate?

[@JonBowers]

How are you using it as an external monitor, just hooking it up to your graphics card via HDMI? I've read that there is an issue with Sony cameras and S-Log over HDMI which is putting me off at the moment (no problems with SDI). That along with fan noise and I'd also like to see them put an actual 10bit panel in them instead of 8+2 FRC panels. Useful vid as usual though Curtis, appreciate the time you put into this and also answering a lot of the comments you get.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Jon, I'm feeding the signal from Resolve with the Blackmagic Ultrastudio Mini Monitor: bhpho.to/2v8EWz6 I used the SDI feed to my Shogun. Since the original Shogun's panel is only 8 bit, it isn't something I rely on too heavily but I am thinking of adding the Shogun Inferno or Sumo for that. (incidentally, the HDMI feed from the Ultrastudio to the Shogun and Ninja Inferno didn't work but I think that's a Blackmagic Design issue). I'm curious about the 8+2 FRC vs true 10 bit issue. Bram Desmot from Flanders Scientific said that 8+2 FRC is just as good as true 10 bit. I'd like to learn more about that.

[@JonBowers]

Yeah, it seems hard to find information regarding 8+2FRC and 10bit. One of my current monitors I've had for a couple of years is 8+2 though I'm pretty it won't support HDR content or any of the HDR standards. It doesn't have HDMI 2 either. Speaking of which the price of the Atomos HDMI 2 cables and also the calibration cable are a bit steep!

[@coondogtheman]

Is there an SD version of this device that can record from composite video sources? I saw the ClearClick ones on amazon but I want something a little more professional. Maybe an HD one but can record from analog sources. I don't care about 4k.

[@curtisjudd]

There isn't from ATOMOS as far as I'm aware. Not sure about other manufacturers. Sorry about that.

[@CardJournalist]

I have a question: Canons new cameras can't shoot video in 24 fps - (e.g. the new 90D) Despite that, is an external recorder able to record in 24 fps?

[@curtisjudd]

Unfortunately no. The camera defines the frame rate.

[@reddogvideo6524]

Another great, informative video as usual. I have a question though: If you go straight from the SSD drive in ProRes 422 to the timeline, where is your backup? Don't you need an independent copy because otherwise you'll have to use the camera disk, correct?

[@curtisjudd]

+Red Dog Video good point. You can edit directly from the SSD you use in the recorder but usually I offload to either another external SSD when I’m mobile or to a raid unit when I’m at my edit room. I’d only edit from the recording SSD in a pinch and make backup copies of the footage first.

[@ajayaroraa]

hi, i have video camera i.e sony FDR AX 100 , can you suggest me which model of atomos best for my camera , so i can shoot 4k in 60p . thanks

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Ajay, the ATOMOS Ninja V is able to record 4k UHD 60p if the Sony outputs that via its HDMI output port: bhpho.to/2GXbUoH

[@michaelcahn]

I've been playing with the Ninja Flame and an A7iii. Where is a good place to really learn all the details of how to work with these recorders. Is there a course online dedicated to this subject? Really enjoyed the video! Thanks!!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Michael. Unfortunately I’m not aware of an online course. Manual is pretty decent. Best wishes!

[@michaelcahn]

Thanks! I Didn’t even realize that they had manuals on the website. DOE!! 🤪 That should help a lot!

[@IMDABROWN]

Awesome explanations

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@predheep]

I just got a new Atomos Ninja V and I was able to record and playback on Ninja and was able to hear the audio, so I took the Sony ssd disk out from the Atomos and plugged it on my Mac and tried to play the mov file and was not able to hear the sound, do you know what could have caused that.. Is there a way I should record in Atomos ? Thanks for your assistance

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Pradeep, if the sound is recorded to channels 2 or higher, it won't necessarily play back unless you import the file into a video editing app or DAW. If that doesn't solve it, may be best to contact ATOMOS support. Best wishes!

[@gtamediaproductions1]

Hi, would it do any justice having a Ninja Blade on a c100 markii? I'll be picking up a ninja blade for $350 tomorrow night but I just don't want to be making a mistake.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, you can record to ProRes which I prefer working with in post

[@richardstirling5799]

please talk about audio connections - I have a Diety mic that will not work with the Ninja V - drag

[@curtisjudd]

Ok.

[@richardstirling5799]

@@curtisjudd thank you - looking forward to it - you do such a good job

[@TheGeoDaddy]

I bought the Nikon Filmmaker’s Kit - which packaged the Ninja V in anticipation of Nikon and Atomos being able to deliver ProRes RAW... looks like that’s NOT happening (Sony, which provides the video chip to Nikon may have put the kabosh on that competition?) Now I am faced with the choice of recording 10 but N-Log (at 4/5 times the cost of storage) or renting try (cheapest) camera that CAN record ProRes RAW... comment??? (I have a QNAP RAID V 3TBS over Thunderbolt3 to my 2018 MacBook Pro running FCPX)

[@curtisjudd]

I bought the Z6 as a stills photo and with some curiosity to shoot raw to an ATOMOS recorder as well. Sad state of affairs for Nikon now. :( What are you shooting and does it require raw? I have several cameras which shoot raw and ProRes and 99.9% of the time I record to ProRes HQ with great results. My thought is that it may be worth refining one's exposure and white balance skills to shot in 10-bit and renting a cinema camera when a shot absolutely requires it, which as it turns out, is extraordinarily rare. Those are my thoughts, but I don't know what you're shooting so that may change my perspective entirely. :-D

[@TheGeoDaddy]

Yes, WHAT, would be definitive... anywhichwaythouwouldhaveit.com I’m shooting THAT is a two hour play I produced in NYC at a theatre space in the city and with pretty much the same talent (cast 12) so I am probable shooting double, triple the two hours (even though the play is “set” and I just need to translate much of the stagey stuff into visual stuff) luckily 80% is only two to three characters at a time... thrrr are only two “crowd” scenes that will be mind bogglingly complex... So, I have GREAT control over the Light and Audio... using the tungsten lights of the theatre space augmented by my Aputure 300D / 120D and two panel Intellytech’s L160s for the close up work. And I can get away with a lot of artistic license ie “this is only play with actors, props abc painted backdrops! But I still think I need ProRes for Post adjustments... as it will be difficult to re-shoot. And, until I get more than one camera, I’ll have to shoot as many takes as needed to get my Long/Medium/CU/XCU etc shots. I was hoping to simply get more Z6’s, match profiles and affix my several Lenses.... The Zoom Sound Sync’s were a tremendous help in calculating my mic - sync - mixing needs (we have a live harpsichordist) It may be worth to shoot in N-log and EAT the NAS storage cost... my 3TB Thunderbolt3 cost me under $2K so I could just have multiples of those as I ramp up?

[@umitikiz8830]

nice video. with 1 hour filming with prores. how much is the memory if you film with ssd

[@curtisjudd]

I use a 240GB drive

[@highfiveonetwo1921]

This video is amazing. Thank you so much!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Highfiveonetwo!

[@reddanselmo8781]

Can I use the Xrite Color Munki to calibrate this?

[@curtisjudd]

Unfortunately, I don't think so. According to the manual: 2. Calibration Port The calibration 2.5mm jack on the left hand side (looking from the front), allows for the connection of supported calibration devices with support now available for the retail version of the X-Rite i1Display Pro as well as legacy Atomos Spyder Calibrator. Both units utilize the optional USB to serial adaptor cable.

[@alexbormanbou]

Great analisys. Thnxs

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Alejandro.

[@jasonalexjones6089]

Is it better to connect the MixPre3 to a camera or to the Ninja V?

[@curtisjudd]

I generally connect to the camera, assuming that the camera's input is decent. For example, with my Panasonic GH5 and GH5S, I'd send the audio to camera which sounds great and keeps the audio in perfect sync with the video. If your camera's mic input is not very good and introduces self-noise, then. you might be better off sending the audio to the Ninja. You will need to apply an audio offset in the Ninja to get the audio in sync with the video.

[@vuiieight]

would you suggest buying an atomos e.g. ninja v external recorder for an improvement in image quality for the a7iii? or would you rather just buy an atomos shinobi external monitor only?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Valentine, it depends on your workflow. If you edit on a Mac, the fact that you can record to ProRes can make editing easier. But I'm not sure you'll see a massive improvement in video quality since I believe the Sony A7iii only outputs 8 bit 4:2:0 via its HDMI port. It is really more about the file formats (ProRes) and exposure tools and larger screen.

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

I LOVE THE IDEA OF A 7 INCH SCREEN. Good video

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks! Yes, very helpful!

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

I will end up purchasing one. I purchased 8 x Sandisk Extreme Pro - Flash memory Card - 64 GB - 300MB/s SDXC UHS-II at £210 each. So expensive. I may use the Ninja to save money on memory cards and also the larger 7 inch screen. I would also like to work with pro res

[@Filmer]

I'm looking for a monitor for the DJI Ronin. I use a Canon 5D Mark 3 and I wanted to know if a Atomos would be a good choice? I want a small monitor. I dont really mind recording through the Atomos. I just want to be able to watch what im doing when filming with my 5D. I'm looking for a monitor thats under 7 inches in length.

[@curtisjudd]

+Filmer the SmallHD focus or one of their other small monitors are worth considering. Here’s also a less robust but much less expensive 5” monitor we reviewed: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZbPaaSCi7h3bbM

[@michaelstoreb288]

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and experiences! Big fan of your KZbin channels and online course, and have learned a lot from you while preparing to move into doing videography in addition to my photography. Have you tried using an Atomos and MixPre together, with timecode over HDMI from the camera? I am contemplating on getting an Atomos Ninja V, and am wondering whether the timecode signal from my camera will come through to the HDMI output on the Atomos, so I can plug that into the MixPre.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Michael, thanks! I borrowed the Ninja for the review so I don’t have it to confirm. I have my older Shogun and the MixPre does not receive timecode from it so I’m not sure whether it will work with the Ninja V. You might contact ATOMOS support to see if they have tested this combination. Good luck!

[@michaelstoreb288]

Curtis Judd Thanks for replying! I’ll see if Atomos support can help me.

[@Yasboss1]

very helpful video

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@sutv6754]

Hi Curtis, I use the GH5 now in 2021 and perhaps soon the GH6. I use a high powered i9 editing station PC. Will pro res also play well on that? When I use the use 10 bit intra at 400 or the 10 bit Long-GOP my machines struggles big time. Trying to decide whether to get just the monitor or monitor/recorder. I've studied with Doug Jensen and I'm heading into the world of stock footage as I took his course. Considering the GH5 now shoots in 400 10bit 422 intra I'm wondering what is best. I'm a quality pixel peeping nut. I never buy anything ever without your reviews.

[@curtisjudd]

I don't know the status of ProRes playback on PCs and I think it depends on the editing app you use. I thought I heard that the PC version of Premiere Pro added back full ProRes support a couple of years ago, so should be good on that front. Also depends on the PC and the video card. Laptops will generally have a harder time than a similarly spec'd desktop.

[@CarOnTheWall]

I tried one of these and it works great except I get a red dot in the corner of the image when outputting from my 7D mkii. Any idea how to work around that?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, I’d first confirm whether the Canon is sending the red dot (which I suspect it is). You can check by connecting it to any HDMI TV. I’m not sure whether the 7DmkII can be configured to send a “clean” HDMI feed. Any Canon shooters out there know?

[@Racosz]

Are these Atomos recorders compatible with some old DSLRs, for instance, Canon T3i? I think this might be a good and affordable solution in order to extend the video capabilities of this camera, but I have my doubts about if it actually works. Thanks in advance.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Óscar, I don't have a T3i on hand to confirm, but my understanding is that many of the older Canon DSLRs do not output full HD and don't output a clean feed. Probably best to check the camera compatibility page at www.atomos.com/cameras or you might contact ATOMOS support to confirm. Best wishes!

[@EvanFotis]

Great review as always! A quick question I cannot find the answer going through the Atomos manual pdf: Can the Atomos display a flipped image horizontally and/or vertically (like a camera rotating lcd does) ? and if yes, can this flipped image be outputted to an external display via hdmi? Main use, for people in front of camera having a proper view of the frame.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Evan, the screen can be flipped so that it can be used upside down. I'll need to check to see whether it flips the HDMI output signal. Good question!

[@SergeLetunovskiy]

Curtis, what is the handle you are using? What is your Atomos attached to? Who makes that handle? I want something similar to throw on my Canon 1Dx mark ii, so I have a flexible way to manipulate my Shogun Inferno.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Serge, that's the Varavon Zeus Uni camera cage: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXLadIChns5-mpI

[@curtisjudd]

You'll want to check to the specs to make sure it can expand enough to fit around the 1Dx mkII.

[@SergeLetunovskiy]

Curtis Judd thank you sir

[@NoirEtBlancVie]

Curtis, As always your videos provide amazing quality and useful information to me. I know may be asking a bit much, but I think someone with your expertise could really assist me in making a decision. I have $5000 that is budgeted for the rest of 2017 for film equipment. Currently a7rii is my A-Cam and Rx10ii us my B-Cam. I mainly shoot Interviews, short form Doc, for my own channel and run & run in 4K. I'm deciding between an Ursa Mini 4.6k and an FS5. (Why you ask? I'm looking to push into higher budget work and need the pose value of a larger camera.) As I know you do a lot of work in this area have you found that shooting with smaller Mirrorless Cameras GH5 etc, DSLRs limits you or your potential clientele? I apologize if this is too much to ask.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Noir Et Blanc Vie, Not too much to ask at all. To some extent yes, but only for cases where the potential askers don't know anything else about you or your work. It isn't a complete make or break kind of factor for getting jobs. In my experience, getting jobs has a lot more to do with gaining the confidence of clients and fellow filmmakers and word of mouth. Mostly relationships. That being said, I'm quite happy with my kit which includes a GH5 and Ursa Mini Pro. I will say that shooting in raw is something I rarely do, even with the Ursa simply because for paid jobs, it usually isn't necessary and adds a fair bit of time to the post workflow. The ProRes footage, on the other hand, makes my post workflow very smooth and quick. I don't believe that is possible on the FS5 without an external recorder. The only experience I have with the FS5 was editing some FS5 long GOP HD footage in Final Cut Pro about 18 months ago. FCPX and that codec didn't work very well together back then - lots of funky torn frames which meant I couldn't always cut where I wanted/needed. I don't know if either party has made changes to fix that but it was a rather frustrating experience. I only mention that in case you use a similar workflow and not to discourage you from buying an FS5. There are lots of happy FS5 owners out there. :) Good luck!

[@NoirEtBlancVie]

Wow Curtis, thank you so so much for your thoughts. I think I'll go with the 4.6k as my workflow is very similar to yours, I shoot ProRes to my Atomos and Vid Assist 4k and well an all in one solution like the 4.6k will be great. Now I just need an extra $1000 for all the accessories LOL.

[@BartJohnsonProd]

Still have my Ninja 2 as well!

[@curtisjudd]

That's a pretty solid little recorder!

[@jeremiahgazsi8579]

How much latency is there between th camera and the monitor? I need near instant display on the monitor of what the camera is seeing.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Jeremy, with HDMI, there is always latency with the cameras I’ve used. 4 frames is pretty common in my experience. It seems to mostly be on the camera end of the signal chain.

[@curtisjudd]

@Johnathon Frumdehood Agreed, for those who can afford a cine camera. Those working professionally, definitely. For those not, where time and retakes are not an issue, this is a way to get by.

[@111danish111]

Can the atmos record in 4k 60fps even if the camera cannot to 4k 60fps ie it only does 4k 24 or 30 fps natively ?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, no, if the camera maxes out at 4k 30, this cannot make your camera record 60. Happy shooting!

[@Forestfalcon1]

I Have a GH5... I'm interested in filming wildlife.. I find my footage quite jerky when filming birds flapping their wings or bobbing their heads when feeding.. Would the Atomos Ninja Inferno give me smoother video?? or could it just be the shutter speed I'm using?? Usually double the frame rate...

[@curtisjudd]

+Paul Dunham possibly, there are a number of factors to getting smooth footage. 4k in general tends to have more stuttering types of movement in my experience. 60 FPS with the shutter at 180 degrees (120th of a second) can look smoother. All-I codecs can sometimes help as well. In short, a Ninja or Shogun might help but I'd borrow or rent first to confirm.

[@kennethwilliamsinc]

I have the Atomos Assassin and I noticed quite a difference from internal to external on the Canon C100 but there is ZERO difference using the Sony A9 internal vs external. Is the A9 intentionally crippled? Weird man.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, the A9 outputs 4:2:2 8 bit signal via HDMI so there isn't going to be a huge difference in quality between the internal codec and recording externally.

[@dman34]

so, i have a need to record college classes and was hoping to use the combination of the nikon D3300 and the Atmos ninja 2. my recordings do not have to be stellar. I just need to capture viewable video and decent sound. Are there any setting combinations that will get me at least a good video?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, you'll just want to make sure the HDMI output on the D3300 is set to clean (so that none of the control information is sent to the HDMI out) and that it is set to 100% coverage (for some reason, some of the Nikon DSLRs thought it would be clever to have a setting where it only covered 95% of the full HD resolution).

[@TishawnFahie]

Very helpful video thank you quick question I think I know the answer , if I purchase a shogun inferno that can record 4k60FPS - can I hook it up to a Sony A73 that only supports up to 4k 30 but record 4K60 from the Atomos?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Tishawn, no, it needs a feed from the camera in 60p to record 60p.

[@TishawnFahie]

@@curtisjudd thank you for responding so quickly! I figured I appreciate it!! I thought I could cheat the system lol thanks!

[@Zz-vu2pf]

Hi , what is the difference between 10bit 4.2.2 and uncompressed 8bit 4.2.2 ?

[@curtisjudd]

+Zaro Zaro the difference is the resolution of luminance values which generally means smoother gradients in things like the sky for the 10 bit.

[@wcrump55]

would the touchscreen on an atomos ninja inferno still control AF on a c200?

[@curtisjudd]

+Crump Media Works unfortunately no. I'm not aware of any third party monitors that manage camera settings.

[@BrianSiano]

This may be a stupid question, but... can the GH5 currently send a 400 mbps signal to an Atomos recorder? Or will that require the upcoming GH5 patch?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Brian, not a bad question at all. The GH5 sends an HDMI signal. I'm not sure what the bitrate is in HDMI terms but then the recorder encodes the signal at high bitrates (depending on the codec/level you configure). So I have to assume that it is the equivalent of about 400Mbps.