Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K in depth Review
In the realm of professional filmmaking, the pursuit of exceptional image quality and versatility is a constant endeavor. Blackmagic Design, a renowned name in the industry, has once again pushed the boundaries of innovation with the introduction of the URSA Mini Pro 12K. This powerhouse of a camera is designed to deliver unparalleled cinematic results, and we're excited to dive into its key features and capabilities.
Key Features:
12K Super35 CMOS sensor with an effective resolution of 79.6 megapixels (12,288 x 6480)
Interchangeable PL lens mount, with optional EF and F mounts available separately
Built-in ND filter with a mechanical filter wheel offering clear, 2-stop, 4-stop, and 6-stop filters
Dual CFast 2.0 and UHS-II SD card slots for recording 12K video
USB-C expansion port for capturing to NVMe SSD drives at speeds up to 10 Gb/s
Wide dynamic range of 14 stops
Native ISO of 800
Variable frame rates up to 60 fps in 12K, 120 fps in 8K, and 240 fps in 4K
Raw 12-bit recording in various resolutions including 12288 x 6480
4" fold-out touchscreen LCD and external backlit LCD status display
12G-SDI input and output, timecode and reference input, and 48V phantom power XLR audio
Blackmagic OS with an intuitive user interface and advanced camera features
Lightweight, robust magnesium alloy body design
Included DaVinci Resolve Studio software for post-production
Sensor and Resolution
At the heart of the URSA Mini Pro 12K lies a 27.03 x 14.25 mm Super35 CMOS sensor, boasting an effective resolution of 79.6 megapixels (12,288 x 6480). This sensor size, combined with the high megapixel count, ensures that your footage is rich in detail and texture, making it ideal for a wide range of applications, from feature films to commercials and documentaries.
Dynamic Range and ISO
The camera's advertised dynamic range of 14 stops is a testament to its ability to capture an extensive range of tonal values, from the brightest highlights to the darkest shadows. Additionally, the native ISO of 800 provides a solid foundation for low-light shooting, allowing for greater flexibility in various environments.
Lens Mount and Communication
The PL Mount on the URSA Mini Pro 12K is designed to accommodate a wide range of cinema lenses, while the lens communication feature enables seamless metadata exchange between the camera and lens. This integration streamlines the workflow, making it easier to manage and adjust lens settings during production.
Built-In ND Filter and Mechanical Filter Wheel
The camera features a built-in mechanical filter wheel with clear, 2-stop, 4-stop, and 6-stop ND filters, providing quick and convenient control over exposure. This built-in filter system eliminates the need for external filters, saving time and reducing the risk of damage or loss.
Media and Memory Card Slot
The dual SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II) media slots offer ample storage capacity and flexibility, allowing you to record to two cards simultaneously or use one as a backup. This feature is particularly useful for extended shoots or when working with high-resolution formats.
Variable Frame Rates
The URSA Mini Pro 12K supports an impressive range of frame rates, including up to 60 fps in 12K, 75 fps in 12K anamorphic, 120 fps in 8K, and 160 fps in 8K anamorphic. These variable frame rates enable the creation of stunning slow-motion sequences and provide the flexibility to adapt to different shooting styles and requirements.
Raw Recording and Audio
The camera is capable of recording raw 12-bit footage at various resolutions, including 12288 x 6480, 11520 x 648, and more. The 2-channel, 24-bit, 48 kHz audio recording ensures that your sound design is of the highest quality, complementing the exceptional visuals.
Display and Connectivity
The 4.0" articulating touchscreen LCD provides an intuitive interface for camera settings and monitoring, while the secondary status display on the side offers quick access to essential information. The camera features a range of connectors, including 12G-SDI input and output, 3G-SDI monitor output, XLR mic/line level inputs, and a USB Type-C port for data transfer and charging.
Power and Operating Conditions
The URSA Mini Pro 12K is designed to operate in a wide range of temperatures (32 to 104°F / 0 to 40°C) and humidity levels (0 to 90%). This robustness makes it an ideal choice for productions that involve shooting in challenging environments.
Conclusion
The Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro 12K is a game-changer in the world of digital cinematography. Its exceptional sensor, dynamic range, and frame rate capabilities make it an attractive option for professionals seeking to create high-end content. The camera's built-in ND filter, mechanical filter wheel, and raw recording features further enhance its appeal. Whether you're working on a feature film, commercial, or documentary, the URSA Mini Pro 12K is sure to deliver outstanding results.