BMD Goes Anamorphic - Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K Explained!

Get my guides on anamorphics, anamorfakes, USSR lenses, and more!
www.e-junkie.c...
Let's look at Blackmagic Cinema Camera's anamorphic capabilities, and its general feel!
See what we're up to on Instagram
/ finalversion2

[@bryguyworktag]

Bro, your content is criminally underrated. You should have a million+ subs, at least. Thank you for everything you've done to help the indie and beginner filmmaker. Keep doing amazing work!

[@natehaiden]

The optical low pass filter is a nice touch, also a lesser known strength is that the camera records gyro information to the braw for great stabilization which can wonderfully make use of the extra space above and below a 16:9 crop into the open gate mode.

[@natehaiden]

Better yet the gyro stabilization fixes rolling shutter to the point where it performs like a global shutter

[@relaxwithme3266]

Good review! I have been using this camera since launch and it has quickly become my favourite of the past decade or so. My favourite things about it are: 1) The tonality of the image 2) The way the dynamic range works - very nice rolloff in shadows and highlights 3) OLPF (finally!) 4) BRAW 5) Anamorphic modes 6)Weight 7)Gyro 8)Reliability 9)L mount - I love adapting old glass 10) The price. The only things I don't love are the battery (solved by a v mount solution) and the framerates (though TBH I normally just stick to 24fps, so no big deal).

[@InventiveImagery]

No worries about framerates since the release of features in NLEs, similar to FCPX's slowmo feature, that will come in time to DaVinci and Premiere.

[@8lec_R]

Idk if people are like me but I just default to shooting 3:2 now, like always. On spherical. The last time I shot 17:9 was for a specific project, which required 17:9 for the story, otherwise it is always 3:2. I find it nicer for some odd reason

[@steveschnetzler5471]

I am glad they use L-mount, brings one more camera to that system, encouraging lens makers to support the mount. Thanks for the video.

[@fdelfini]

Mano! I’ve been using this camera since the launch and had my first opportunity of using anamorphics on my last job, using the mercuries. I think this camera (11k reais at BM last sale) plus all budget lens options right now will help popularize the anamorphic look 😊specially here in BR.

[@thiagolimadop]

Fiz um longa mês passado com um kit greatjoy. Tô esperando liberarem a divulgação das imagens pra fazer um video

[@bbrunorocha]

bought on it's release and this camera is awesome ! I'm using blackmagic cameras as my main tool for the past 5 years so it was a pretty easy transition. I bought mostly because of the 3:2 OG recording which i'm using 90% of the time, is super versatille for multiple deliveries. I only shot anamorphic with this camera a couple times but the image is stunning! Regarding file sizes, you can try using Q5 for the A Roll, I found it to be on par with the files from the fx30 at 4k dci

[@mtscott44]

People always cry about no ProRes becuase of size limitations. Meanwhile, BRAW 12:1 is BETTER than ProRes in every way, and is smaller in file size. BRAW is the game-changer that Blackmagic really won the race with.

[@gummoman]

There is a problem with Blackmagic that PRORESS solved. For example, if you wanted to record in 4k on a full sensor with Proress you could do it (on the BM 6kPRO). With BRAW, if you want to record in 4k, there is a massive crop of the sensor. The camera forces you to record in 6k to use the entire sensor. What you say about BRAW 12:1 being smaller than PRORESS is not exact. BRAW 12:1 is smaller than PRORESS HQ, but it is not smaller than PRORESS LT and PRORESS Proxy. For projects that require less space (concerts, events, weddings) this camera is a problem. H265 or PRORESS would greatly improve this camera. This is coming from someone who loves Braw but would like to have other options.

[@mtscott44]

@@gummoman Okay sure, I see that problem being solved (full sensor readout at lower resolutions), but I guess when your goal is to record to a delivery codec, or proxy codec, you're using the wrong camera! PRORES is a joke compared to BRAW in every regard - except if you want to record less than optimal video - which is not what I purchased a cinema camera.

[@gummoman]

@@mtscott44 Friend, I think you misunderstood. If you record in 4K in Braw, there is a sensor crop. There is no choice or solution, it is what it is. Now, you are laughing at ProRess. I have worked many times with the Arri Alexa on films and commercials and guess which codec is used. Yes, ProRess. It is even a Netflix standard. Now, if you understood how Braw decoding works, you would know that it is not a true raw, it is practically ProRess with metadata.

[@mtscott44]

@@gummoman I thought I clearly expressed that I understand your use case for recording full sensor with ProRes? In any case, sounds like you're an apple worshipper. If only you understood how marketing works - they gotcha! You say BRAW is practically ProRes with metadata....yet BRAW is significantly smaller file sizes with raw decoding abilities. So similar, but SO different. Keep using apples holly grail, I'm sure they will thank you.

[@gummoman]

@@mtscott44 No, my friend, I don't like Apple, I think it's a horrible company. But I do value being able to use the entire sensor of a camera in different resolutions. Braw seems like a great codec to me, the "demosaicing" process is very efficient but I would like to have more options. It would make the camera more versatile and it would surely sell more. God bless you and have a nice day.

[@DynamicPhil84]

I picked one up recently on the massive discount, it really is a steal! I do hope BM will give more desqueeze options in a future firmware update, otherwise record without in-camera desqueeze and use a secondary monitor for additional desqueeze options. I would have to disagree regarding BRAW file size though. It is insanely manageable! I use 12:1 or 8:1 compression for YT. 6K OG @24fps in 8:1 compression is actually SMALLER than 6K OG @24fps in ProRes LT on the Fuji XH2s for example!

[@BrendonKPadjasek]

I just got one of these during the crazy sale. Having used it on 2 projects and comparing it to my Lumix s5iix footage from the same shoots, I’m absolutely in love with the image I have a set of Blazar Remus lenses on the way and Seriously hope they integrate 1.5x squeeze to all aspect ratios. Seems like an easy addition. Great video as always my man

[@RobertConwaymovieguy]

I’ve been a Blackmagic shooter since the OG pocket. As with every previous model, these cams need to be rigged out for any serious shooting. But the image quality speaks for itself. Even fully kitty out, your spending thousands less than a Red Komodo while getting a comparable, if not superior image.

[@nativestrong7253]

Love BlackMagic cameras, but I can get the same open gate 6k with higher dynamic range from the x-h2s, which also leads in picture photography. Balckmagic's comeback will be when they can bring that 16 stops dynamic range 12k sensor to a pocket camera. That would make the photography portion irrelevant.

[@InventiveImagery]

Great video! Thanks. Keep it coming. Love this camera. Couple things to note, you can use the quick menu to change the frame rate. Also recording to CF Express Type B is definitely easy and doable in 2024, IMO. I got a 1TB Lexar (approved media) card for $200 from B&H. No need to rig out an SSD which doesn't technically guarantee all shooting modes (even with the best SSD).

[@maxmeyer6395]

Thank you so much for this review. Really love your videos. Keep up the good work!

[@sofun12]

where is blazar remus 1.5x anamorphic review ??

[@AnamorphicOnABudget]

_coming!_

[@MrCoffis]

My favourite part about this camera was the discounted price 😅

[@slipoch6635]

Great video as always man! I have a 2TB usb4 nvme in an enclosure so I can edit directly from the drive I record from the camera to (using the BMPCC6k non ff) This way I can keep the entire project on a single drive.

[@DethronerX]

Im definitely planning to buy it, especially for the mount and the full frame sensor. As for the crops for anamorphic, I just wont desqueeze in camera, or if an external monitor can do it without cropping, thats ok too. I dont mind not having ND and besides, previously the three NDs still needed an external ND any way, in case of bright lighting and fast aperture. Secondly, some anamorphic lenses or adapters, with some lenses, may cause vignette on full frame, so Id be forced to crop anyway in those cases. I'll take it.

[@gearienoxcuses3936]

What is the name and artist of the music you used during the film winding portion of the video at 0:29. Btw, BM-RAW produces smaller files than prores.

[@HideyoshiR]

Switched to BMD in 2018 and never looked back. No other company offers better features for their price points. Raw codec, amazing color science, HFR. Only gripe is the lack of anamorphic desqueeze options indeed..

[@dothewubwub]

Anyone else notice audio issues with his voice? Sounds a bit robotic.

[@christianjamesserrano]

Came to the comments to confirm my sanity lol It's not a big deal, like great video overall, but I thought it was worth noting as well

[@timekeepermedia5142]

I use the blazar anamorphics with my BM6KCC and the fact they haven't added more squeeze options drives me crazy. I don't understand it

[@0xmigu]

Great video! One note, your voice audio sounds really rough, like it has a slight robotic effect on top

[@reticulan5]

Yeah having a single de-squeeze setting is not what I’d be after. 2:35-2:40 aspect ratio is too wide in most filming situations. My personal favorite ratio is 2:00 (18 X 9). It’s a popular sweet spot between modern TVs. And Cinemascope cinema. If you’re watching most original Netflix or Pay TV subscriptions. You’ll find many are shot in 2:00. But Again everyone has a preference and there are many different projects. So why not give us customers choices. 1:3,1:5, 1:6, 1:8, etc. My other wish is I shoot mostly corporate work and a couple of clients in the boardroom have an 8K TV. So I’d love the FF BM to be 8K capable. Both BM and Panasonic seem to limit to 6K. Then jump to 12K in BM’s case. Canon and others have 8K DSLR’s for more than 3 years.

[@erosefilms]

Nice video 🎥. On another note there are some particles on the sensor.

[@AnamorphicOnABudget]

Thanks! It's to give it *character*. hahahaha

[@erosefilms]

@@AnamorphicOnABudget lol nice 😅

[@Mrjimmybuckets24]

I'm still using the BMPCC6k S35 and wondering if you have a good starter/budget anamorphic to recommend? I bought the Great Joy 50mm but found the squeeze was too much for my taste and had to cut too much of the image before it became usable. I'm considering the Remus and Nanomorph in 35mm. I do mostly doc work, but very interested in the anamorphic look.

[@timwiesner5941]

So you're telling me that when I want to use my 1.8x full-frame anamorphic lenses, this camera won't let me use its whole sensor?! (Unless I disable de-squeeze in-camera ofc) What a waste!

[@LucasPfaff]

5:12 arguably, BRAW being RAW can be much smaller than Prores; in 4K DCI, Prores 422 uses 629Mb/s in 30p, where BRAW uses 183Mbit at 3:1 at 4603x2592 in 30p. Those numbers aren't 1:1 comparable, but it's the first hard data I could find and shows the difference quite well. And Prores 422 is already quite a step down from HQ or 4444 (943Mbit or 1414Mbit at the same setting) did BMD pay you to not talk about how the terrible RS could be problematic for anamorphic? 🙈

[@AnamorphicOnABudget]

Thanks for the numbers! And good point. I guess I should've said I wanted something more compressed. RS: Hahahaha, I didn't have a chance to film much with it so far, so I didn't notice it yet. :(

[@LucasPfaff]

@@AnamorphicOnABudget in 12:1, the datarate of that same 4.6K BRAW is 46Mbit, that is roughly the same as Prores Proxy in HD. And the quality is considerably better; sure, 6K is larger, but for 6K it gets messy in double digit bitrates, even in H265. So for "more compression", I'd give the higher ratios a little try, could surprise you! :)

[@MichaelKaykov]

We’re in 2024 and still don’t have an affordable rolling shutter (like an updated Studio 4K for instance)

[@EmeraldAudiovisual]

even Canon CineRAW LT produces smaller files than ProRes 422 :p ..... But BRAW is indeed awesome.

[@natehaiden]

@@MichaelKaykov not true! Because this camera records gyro data to the braw once you gyro stabilize (only in resolve) all rolling shutter is virtually gone :)

[@A.Edilbi]

can you please tell me what lens you used to shoot the video ?

[@LightWingStudios12]

Which are your recomnend anamorphics for the bmpcc6kff? Blazar vs Sirui?

[@MikkelGrumBovin]

You are a proverbial MAGiCiAN aswell as a litterally one !

[@isaacbedford3644]

Please review the Z-cam F6 (Pro)

[@antovega2]

i just got mine and seems pretty sweet.

The unly thing that is really sad is the mounts. I wish more cameras would offer basically all mounts. Like kinefinty or dji. Dji with e mount, dl, l , mount etc. This would simply make life easier. At the moment switching mount would mean getting rid of the sirui saturn i have

[@gummoman]

If this camera had Proress and H265 I would buy it without a doubt. Braw is heavy and forces you to record in 6K to use the entire sensor. Something that does not fit all projects. I really need other flavors of codecs.

[@ryanleethomas]

But Magic Lantern today is doing great!

[@ShangleLP]

whats your thought about the camera in comparison to the lumix s5ii for production use? i have both, love both and cant decide, but i need to get rid of one of them because of money xD

[@MrJayclas]

I have the Pocket 4k and Cinema 6k and I just use an external monitor then set the desqueeze in Resolve.

[@BootStrapTurnerVideography]

Was excited by the film portion at the beginning of the review only to be disappointed that the BMCC6K was digital.. 🤣🤣 However, looks like BMCC6K would pair nicely with Sirui 1.6x FF anamorphics? Strange only a single selection where as my Panasonic Lumix S5II has everything but 1.6x.

[@elihershko8955]

Hi Tito hope all is well man! A quick question - I have GJ 1.8 with FF 6k at s35 mode - is there a crop factor there or am I going to be able getting to edge of frame? Or should I just shoot open gate and crop in manually?

[@redbeardproductions-kevind9806]

My Z Cam F6 is so awesome for anamorphic shooting. I've been using the Blazar Remus set.

[@MikkelGrumBovin]

whats the price of this - Pocket cinema camera !?

[@filipmichalsaffray441]

Good review, Well I think it is kind of underrated camera and it is not one for KZbinrs...missing AF is for some people like not having air and such a no go...the my forgot that it can be adressed with DJI lidar combo system... Anyway it is a demanding camera with a lot of strange stuff amazing image and very very reliable I got P4K,P6K org as well I still use them in 2024 because the image is amazing...and holding well but the IQ BMCC 6K FF is another level probably because of FF...even for BM shooters something special...

[@hzubovi1]

Would like to have 6K open gate at 120 FPS

[@JoATTech]

Ursa 12k Cine next please :D

[@geofftaylor8913]

My Ursa original is full frame.

[@botbot3698]

?

[@A.Edilbi]

what lens you used to film the talking head shot?

[@AnamorphicOnABudget]

This is not a lens video, so I didn't add the info. I think it was the Sirui Saturn 35, but can't remember for sure. The talking head of the lens reviews are always filmed with the lens being reviewed though.

[@Imhotep397]

Damn, did youtube kill channel memberships? My membership got refunded and the membership tab is gone?

[@AnamorphicOnABudget]

Check the latest community post! I turned off memberships!

[@Imhotep397]

@@AnamorphicOnABudget Ah, thanks. Good luck with the new business.

[@Veptis]

The audio threw me off

[@stabbuswoundus]

Eeehh! Dust on the sensor!

[@AnamorphicOnABudget]

It's for *character* :P

[@waveland]

I have divested the last of my BM cameras. I’m sick of them undercutting the value of my purchases with ridiculous mid-cycle price cuts. Plus by current standards the BMCC sensor is extremely slow and performs horribly in anything but the best lighting conditions. And getting paid to haul in a full lighting kit has become a thing of the past. Sony’s ISO12800 option has made certain of that. FX6 and FX3 is what agencies and BM does not compete.

[@Shauny_D]

i had to stop watching the the audio was so bad. comb filtering and some weird noise reduction maybe? Just fyi it was like fingernails on a chalkboard to me

[@AnamorphicOnABudget]

I messed up this one. It happens every once in a while. Audio is not really my specialty. :(