It was the last thing I thought Blackmagic would do. I thought they would focus nearly all of their efforts on furthering the 4.6K URSA Mini and the 4K URSA Mini software but I was wrong. It happens quite a bit. Firmware 3.4 was just released by Blackmagic to update the 4K Production Camera. I was just as surprised as you may be.
Firmware 3.4
There are not a huge amount of features added to the 4K Production Camera. Actually, Blackmagic only improved three things in the camera’s software. Not a huge update like… adding 60fps in 4K would be, but we will take what we can get. You can download the new firmware here.
- Adds support for SDI record trigger
- Adds support for RP-188 timecode output
- Improved 6G-SDI output compatibility
To me, this reads like a list for shooters wanting to record proxies to a Blackmagic Video Assist from the 4K Production Camera. The SDI Record Trigger is a keystone to using a recorder. You want every piece of 4K and Proxy recording to match up, and matching up the record trigger is key.
It also helps to have a 6G-SDI output sending a beautiful 4K picture to your Blackmagic Video Assist. Without a decent, and dependable, SDI connection you might as well leave the Blackmagic Video Assist at home because it will be all but worthless.
In the end, I am glad to see Blackmagic continuing to improve, however little, their cameras. The 4K Production Camera is a good camera once one gets past its funkiness. I know I’ve made great pictures with one and it is nice to see Blackmagic update its firmware.
Btw, a little Post Script here, did you know you can pick up a PL Version of the 4K Production Camera for the same price as the EF Version of the 4K Production Camera? In the past, the PL Version of a camera cost at least $500.00 more. If it is in stock.
