If 2020 closed as a very interesting year for all lovers of photography and video, this 2021 begins just as well or more. Soon Sony will present its new proposal, the Cinema Line family, but the one that already took a step forward was Blackmagic with the new Pocket Cinema 6K Pro.
An interesting iteration of the Pocket Cinema 6K
In an event previously announced by Blackmagic and where they already indicated that there would be updates related to the products of the ATEM Mini family and their cameras, it was this last category that has left the most interesting novelty: a new Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro .
This new member of the Pocket Cinema family of cameras is basically the same as we already knew, but with some changes introduced that are well worth that surname or Pro qualifier. But if you dedicate yourself to video and you are interested in learning more about it, we are better off Part by part.
The base, that is, the sensor used is identical to that of the previous model. Blackmagic here has not been complicated, has not made any changes and continues to offer the same sensor capable of capturing video at a maximum resolution of 6K. It also maintains the same science of color, the one that those who have worked with the camera and its Davinci Resolve editing software love so much.
Therefore, if we consider that this is basically the same as its predecessor already had, why do they call it Pro? Well, to start with something that professionals will like to hear: battery change.
If before the Pocket Cinema 6K used Canon LP-E6 batteries , now it uses Sony NP-F570 batteries that give better performance. Because if Blackmagic was criticized for something, it was that the autonomy with the integrated batteries was sometimes ridiculous, weighing down many shoots where much more manageable rigs were sought and not those with external batteries that ended up making the set very bulky. Although it must also be admitted that it is how the camera’s capabilities were best used.
The other interesting novelty is the new folding touch screen and optional EVF viewfinder. If you have seen previous Pocket Cinema models, you will know that the screen was fixed. Now it is similar to the screens that even the Sony ZV-1 or the more recent A7S III or A7C used the brand. That is, they could be folded down to allow lower camera shots without losing the option of seeing how the frame is on your screen.
Along with this change in the screen, there is also the possibility of opting for an electronic viewfinder that in situations where viewing on the screen is difficult (recordings in full sunlight) will improve the experience and allow a better view of the plane. Also, again and to record with the minimum equipment it will be very interesting.
For this alone it is worth it, because in terms of form factor it is very similar, as well as practically the location and access to the different controls. Although there is another additional novelty: ND filters built into the camera.
The use of a neutral density filter is something normally only included in film cameras of a certain level. The Pocket if it aspires to be considered as a Pro cinema camera it is logical that it also offers them. So when you record in bright conditions or when you want to open the lens to the maximum, you can do it and use these ND filters to control the light that reaches the sensor. Certainly very useful. And it has four positions: no filter and then 2, 4 and 6 stop filter .
Along with all this are the two mini XLR connectors to record two separate audio tracks and another series of characteristics that it shares with the previous model and that are what add value and interest to this camera on the part of those who are dedicated to video. in a more professional way.
How much does the new Pocket Cinema 6K Pro cost?
The price of Blackmagic cameras has always been interesting considering their capabilities and those of their competition. Being eligible for color science, RAW recording right now, and a host of other features made it worth every dollar. Although later you had to buy a series of accessories to be able to squeeze it to the fullest.
The new Pocket Cinema 6K Pro is still just as good looking. Its price rises about four hundred euros compared to the 6K so far, it will be around 2,500 euros . But without having been able to prove it, it is certain that it will continue to be a price that professionals will quickly amortize.
What you still have to think about if it compensates so much or not is the new optional viewer, its price is about 500 euros and since you spend that amount the same compensates an external recorder more. But that is already a personal decision that each one will surely know how to make
If you want to see the complete video of the presentation and also know the new ATEM Mini Extreme with up to eight HDMI connections and a series of extras that exceed and improve what was seen in the ATEM Mini Pro ISO that we analyzed, go ahead.
