Tech Highlight #1 BlackMagic 6kpro/6k/4k

Hello and welcome to the first installment of our new tech highlight series! With these monthly blog posts, we aim to provide some basic knowledge and tips about the gear we have available to rent here at FilmPEI. To kick things off, what better way than with some of our most big ticket items, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema cameras. We have three models available, the 4K, 6K G1, and 6K Pro, and all are great, beginner-friendly options for learning the ropes of digital cinematography. 

These mirrorless cinema cameras offer professional video quality in a compact, simplistic package. Every model comes with analog controls with three customizable function buttons and a dial, plus a touchscreen interface with a fully interactable HUD for precise adjustments. They also feature dual native ISO (ISO 800-3200), meaning in low light, the sensor is optimized to reduce noise (grain) without compromising its full range, allowing for crisp, clean shots regardless of lighting. Other notable features include a High Frame Rate button, giving you ease in shooting high frame rate clips without the pain in post, multiple storage options (SD, CFast, and external disk through USB-C); recording in BlackMagic Raw (BRAW) or Apple ProRes, in LOG format with customizable LUTs for previewing how your image will look in post, and the ability to control the camera utilizing Bluetooth from up to nine meters away. 

As for key differences to consider, first and foremost is battery life. Each model has a 12v power plug to attach to a V-mount or an outlet, but if you wish to rely on internal batteries, some models require more frequent battery swaps. The 4K/6K’s require LP-E6 whereas the 6K Pro uses the more powerful NPF-550 batteries. When recording BRAW at its max resolution and screen brightness, the 6K Pro lasts approximately 56 minutes, the 6K about 42, and the 4K about 46, depending on the brand/wattage/age of battery. 

Also noteworthy are the image sensors and lens mounts. As you may expect, the 6K’s can achieve more detailed, cleaner video than the 4K. This is thanks to its big Super 35 (APS-C) sensor, which is much larger compared to the 4K’s Micro Four Thirds (MFT). By default, the 6K’s are only compatible with EF lenses whereas the 4K, is compatible without an adapter with MFT lenses. You’re able to use other types of lenses on the 6K’s using an adapter (with the exception of MFT or any lens type with a smaller sensor than EF), while the 4K can be adapted to use a wider array of lenses, including EF. However, it’s important to note that we at FilmPEI only have an EF to MFT adapter, which will only be compatible with the 4K.  

Some reasons why one may opt to go with the 6K Pro over the regular 6K is in part due to its enhanced performance in varied lighting conditions thanks to its built-in Neutral Density (ND) filters; a brighter HDR screen display; more accurate colours and skin tones; tilting screen; and an additional mini XLR port.

The differences between each model are significant enough that one will excel more than others  in different situations. The 4K is a great budget-friendly option and is the best choice for if you value compactness, use various different lens types, or don’t require high resolution video. The 6K is best when you want to optimize resolution and video quality, want access to a narrower depth of field, only use EF lenses, and aren’t using internal batteries or need the additional features of the 6K Pro. Lastly, the 6K Pro is likely what you’re gonna want in most scenarios. It’s the clear winner in terms of video quality, and despite its bulkiness, it is great for on-the-go shoots thanks to its superb battery life, ability to shoot in difficult lighting, and its tilting screen making it great for awkward angles if not using a monitor. It’s also the clear choice for any instance where you need to hook up multiple mics to one camera (2 mini XLR ports) and don’t want to spring for a sound recorder, like a one camera interview. 

We hope you enjoyed this quick overview of the Blackmagic pocket cinema cameras. They are incredibly versatile, accessible, and fun pieces of equipment to work with. Hopefully we’ve done them justice, and perhaps even inspired you to try them on your next project. For booking information, please e-mail Info@filmpei.com, or call (902) 892-3131 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.       

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