Atomos has unveiled the Ninja Phone, a revolutionary device that turns your iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max into a professional video recording beast. This innovative kit combines Atomos’s processing muscle with the iPhone’s power, allowing you to capture high-quality 10-bit ProRes footage from any professional HDMI camera.
Image Credit – Atomos
Now a device that turns your iPhone into an external video monitor is hardly news. Acsoon put the Seemo on the market two years ago. But here’s where things get interesting: Atomos is betting big on the iPhone 15 Pro’s stunning OLED display as a professional monitor. “This screen delivers exceptional clarity and detail,” said Atomos CEO Jeromy Young, “making it a perfect companion for modern mirrorless cameras.”
The iPhone 15 Pro’s OLED tech boasts an impressive 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG. This translates to flawless outdoor shooting with a wider dynamic range, eliminating the need for extra monitors.
The Atomos Ninja Phone doubles down as a high-resolution external monitor, complete with a dedicated app for tweaking camera settings and switching between ProRes and H.265 codecs with full 10-bit color and resolution, and then for storing captured ProRes videos directly to your iPhone for easy editing, or instantly uploaded camera-to-cloud style for smoother cloud storage and workflows. It can even live stream to the internet.
Image Credit – Atomos
Designed for on-the-go creators, the Ninja Phone comes housed in a protective case with a built-in recorder and mounting points for attaching accessories like lights or microphones. Plus, its flexible power system keeps both the recorder and your iPhone juiced for extended shoots, all in a lightweight package of less than 350 grams (iPhone included) that won’t weigh you down.
The Ninja Phone caters to both seasoned filmmakers and social media enthusiasts. Creators can choose between traditional widescreen or the trendy 9:16 aspect ratio for social media content. It even works with iPads, allowing you to record directly to your iPad Pro for a bigger editing canvas.
The Atomos Ninja Phone is now available for pre-order. The recorder module starts at $399, with the Ninja Phone Case (including a secure cable management system) priced at $59. Shipping starts in June 2024.
ZhiyunTech has unveiled its latest breakthrough in lighting technology with the launch of the Molus X60 series. This ultra-compact video light not only boasts color ratings nearing perfection on the TLCI scale but also incorporates an innovative active cooling system, ensuring extended usage without compromise.
Image Credit – ZHIYUN
At the core of the Molus X60’s brilliance lies its COB light engine, delivering a formidable 60 watts of power output. Remarkably, this compact powerhouse can sustain full illumination for up to 50 minutes before requiring a recharge, thanks to its efficient design.
The Molus X60 comes in two variants: the bi-color model and the RGB version. The bi-color variant offers a temperature range spanning from 2700 to 6500 Kelvin, accompanied by an impressive CRI rating of 95 and a TLCI rating of 97. Meanwhile, its RGB counterpart elevates color accuracy even further with a stellar TLCI rating of 98, alongside a commendable CFI of 95.
Image Credit – ZHIYUN
Designed to fit snugly in the palm of a filmmaker’s hand, the Molus X60 emits a meticulously calibrated beam of light, boasting a luminous flux of 2680 Lux at 3.3 feet and 6500K. It caters primarily to social media content creators, solo videographers, and vloggers seeking a lightweight and portable lighting solution for on-the-go usage.
The Molus X60’s DynaVort MKII active cooling system sets a new standard in compact cooling technology. Despite its diminutive size, this cooling mechanism effectively dissipates heat, thereby extending the lifespan of the chip-on-board LED. Furthermore, users have the flexibility to power the light using the supplied adapter, an optional cable, or the additional battery grip, which houses a rechargeable 2550 mAh battery for seamless field operations.
Image Credit – ZHIYUN
Controlled effortlessly via Zhiyun’s ZY Vega app, the Molus X60 offers comprehensive customization options, allowing users to adjust brightness levels across the entire CCT range with 0-100% dimming capability. Additionally, an array of dynamic lighting effects, including SOS, paparazzi, TV, and more, can be easily activated. The light also features a music mode, synchronizing its output with the rhythm of the accompanying music.
Image Credit – ZHIYUN
With dimensions of 3.9 x 2.8 x 2.2 inches (10 x 7.1 x 5.6 cm) and a weight ranging from 0.7 to 1.5 pounds (319g – 683g), the Molus X60 epitomizes portability without compromise. Each unit comes equipped with essential accessories, including a mini reflector, diffusion dome, and power adapter with cable. Moreover, with Zhiyun’s proprietary ZY Mount, users can seamlessly integrate various Bowens-mounted accessories using the optional adapter.
Pricing and Availability:
The Zhiyun Molus X60 Bi-Color LED COB Light is available for pre-order at a retail price of $199, while the X60 RGB LED variant is priced at $249. For those seeking added convenience, the X60 Combo Kit, featuring a grip battery and bag, is available for $269. Alternatively, the Pro Kit, priced at $399, includes two grip batteries, a softbox, and a carrying bag. All configurations come with complimentary expedited two-day shipping. Shipping is slated to commence soon.
Get ready to rethink portable professional audio. DJI, known for their innovative drones and gimbals, has annoucned the Mic 2 wireless recording system hat punches far above its weight in both features and value. With the Mic 2, DJI not only provides a higher end performance for the single content creator, but fires a shot across RØDE’s bow with a game-changing pro audio option.
Image Credit – DJI
Unbreakable Sound, Even Over Extended Takes
Imagine capturing crystal-clear, uncompressed 24-bit audio for up to 14 hours at a time, without storage worries. The Mic 2 makes it a reality thanks to its impressive recording capacity and a clever -6dB safety track on each transmitter. This means even if your main audio goes awry, you’ll have a backup recording at a lower volume, safeguarding your precious takes.
32-Bit Floating Point Recording
Remember fiddling with mic levels before every recording? Those days are gone. The Mic 2 boasts 32-bit floating point technology, a feature pioneered by RØDE in 2023. This revolutionary tech automatically adapts to varying sound environments, eliminating clipping and distortion. Simply hit record and trust the Mic 2 to capture pristine audio, every time.
Image Credit – DJI
Crystal-Clear Vocals with Noise Cancellation
Whether you’re recording in a bustling city street or a windy field, the Mic 2 has you covered. Intelligent noise cancellation keeps your vocals clean and clear, while the included dead cat windscreens provide an extra layer of protection against gusty conditions. You can now confidently record professional-quality audio wherever your creative journey takes you.
Extended Range
The Mic 2 boasts a remarkable 820-foot (250 m) wireless transmission range, giving you unparalleled freedom to move and capture sound. Shoot interviews across a spacious studio, film live events with ease, or record stunning wildlife footage – the Mic 2’s extended range opens up a world of creative possibilities.
Image Credit – DJI
Intuitive Design Meets All-Day Power
The Mic 2 isn’t just about cutting-edge tech; it’s also designed for user-friendliness. The compact and sleek design features a responsive 1.1-inch OLED touchscreen, a precision dial for quick adjustments, and haptic feedback for intuitive control. Plus, with a 6-hour battery life extendable to 18 hours with the included charging case, you can record all day without missing a beat.
Pro Audio Made Affordable
For just $219, the Mic 2 single-transmitter package delivers everything you need to elevate your audio game. Want even more flexibility? The two-transmitter option with a charging case comes in at just $349. And the best part? DJI offers individual transmitters, receivers, and accessories, allowing you to customize your setup exactly to your needs. The DJI Mic 2 is available starting today in either Shadow Black or Pearl White.
Image Credit – DJI
Final thoughts
The DJI Mic 2 is a revolution in portable pro audio. With its cutting-edge features, impressive range, and surprisingly affordable price tag, it sets a new standard for both audio enthusiasts and seasoned professionals alike. So, whether you’re a vlogger on the go, a filmmaker seeking cinematic sound, or a musician wanting studio-quality recordings, the Mic 2 is an express ticket to capturing exceptional audio that takes content to the next level.
Blackmagic has released an update to its Blackmagic Camera app designed to make recording video on the iPhone more reliable and user-friendly. The Camera 1.2 update introduces haptic feedback for control dials, providing a more precise and intuitive experience for making adjustments. Additionally, the app’s screen layout has been improved, and six new languages have been added.
The updated layout ensures that essential controls, including focus peaking, zebra, and false color, remain visible even when the image is zoomed in, allowing mobile filmmakers to closely monitor focus and image quality during recording. Improved grid controls with horizon detection and the ability to flip the image for SLR lenses with depth-of-field adapters further enhance the app’s usability.
Image Credit – Blackmagic Design
Blackmagic has also added support for custom LUTs, enabling users to apply specific looks to their footage and embed them directly into the video file. Flicker-free recording is now possible thanks to adjustable shutter presets for 50 or 60 Hz settings, ensuring compatibility with various lighting environments.
Apple Log has been expanded to include a Rec 709 LUT, providing users with more color grading options. Additionally, users can now tag the color space for their footage. Audio recording has also been enhanced, with the option to choose from the iPhone’s front, back, or even bottom microphones for directional audio capture.
Performance improvements include refined animations for player and slate views, as well as stealth mode optimization for smaller iPhone models. Users can now group camera settings for more efficient management, and clips can be dragged and dropped between different projects in the media panel.
To further enhance the user experience, Blackmagic has added six new languages to the app: Chinese, Spanish, French, Japanese, Korean, and Portuguese. Setting adjustments can also be exported and imported, and the recording HUD has been improved. Additionally, uploading can be disabled while on data to conserve bandwidth.
The Blackmagic Camera 1.2 update is available as a free download from the Apple iOS app store.
UPDATE: Apple has announced a special event called “Scary Fast” on October 30, 2023, at 5pm PT / 8pm ET. The Scary Fast event name is likely a reference to the expected performance boost that the new M3 chips will offer. Apple’s M2 chips were already incredibly fast, so it’s exciting to see what the company can do with the next generation.
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Apple enthusiasts have a reason to be excited for an early Christmas, as the tech giant prepares to unveil a fresh lineup of iMacs just in time for the holiday season. In his latest “Power On” newsletter for Bloomberg, tech reporter Mark Gurman hinted at the possibility of another product launch by the end of October, which promises to focus on a long overdue iMac refresh.
Image – Apple
The current 24-inch iMac model, with its sleek design and vibrant Retina display, has remained relatively unchanged for over 900 days. This has left eager fans looking forward to an upgrade from the existing M1 Apple Silicon processor, which made its debut in the iMac back in April 2021. The 24-inch iMac features a 4.5K Retina display, offering stunning visuals for users, and is powered by the M1 chip, which provides impressive performance and energy efficiency.
As for what to expect in the new iMacs, the possibilities are promising. With the recent release of the M3 chip in certain MacBook laptops, there is speculation that Apple might opt for the more powerful M3 chip for the iMac. The M3 chip promises even better performance, which could make the new iMacs a formidable choice for both creative professionals and general users alike.
Gurman, in his weekly newsletter, shared insights about Apple’s plans, stating, “I’ve heard that the company postponed the iMac Pro due to cost concerns. Fortunately, a new iMac is now on the horizon.” While he did not delve into specific technical details, the enhanced performance expected from the M3 chip could significantly elevate the iMac’s capabilities.
In addition to the expected performance boost, the new iMacs may come with other upgrades, such as improved graphics, more RAM, and enhanced connectivity options. These enhancements could make the iMac an even more versatile and powerful computing device, suitable for a wide range of tasks.
The timing of the iMac announcement has sparked excitement and curiosity about Apple’s plans for the M2 upgrade. While the exact details of the new iMacs remain shrouded in secrecy, it is clear that Apple is gearing up to deliver a compelling update that will capture the imagination of its dedicated user base.
As for the timing of the announcement, Gurman anticipates that Apple may choose Halloween as the unveiling date, most likely through a press release, ensuring that the new iMacs are available just in time for the holiday shopping season.
These developments are sure to keep Apple enthusiasts and tech enthusiasts on the edge of their seats as they eagerly await the forthcoming announcements and innovations from the tech giant.
During the highly anticipated 2023 Adobe MAX Sneaks presentation, Adobe astounded the audience with a remarkable array of experimental features that harnessed the incredible capabilities of generative AI. These innovative tools were designed to revolutionize the realms of video, audio, and 3D design, ushering in a new era of creative possibilities.
Image Credit – Adobe
Before diving into the list of remarkable features showcased at the 2023 Adobe MAX Sneaks presentation, it’s worth highlighting not only Adobe Firefly, but also Project Stardust, an impressive innovation that has the potential to transform image editing. Adobe Firefly is already revolutionizing content creation across video, audio, animation, and motion graphics. It streamlines video editing, reducing post-production time and automating tasks. In audio, it enhances sound quality, simplifies dubbing, and caters to global audiences. In animation, it empowers creatives with lifelike movements and stunning effects, enhancing overall efficiency.
Meanwhile, Project Stardust simplifies the process of selecting, editing, and even deleting complex elements within any image, ushering in a new era of intuitive, accessible, and time-efficient image editing. For instance, this groundbreaking tool allows users to select individuals within a photograph, relocate them within the composition, and seamlessly fill in the background where they once stood. Users can also tweak elements like clothing color or positioning, treating static images as if they were files with layers.
Now, let’s delve into the impressive array of features demonstrated at this year’s Adobe MAX Sneaks presentation:
Project Fast Fill
One of the most groundbreaking unveilings was Project Fast Fill, which introduced the power of Firefly generative AI to the realm of video editing. For the first time, this tool allowed users to effortlessly remove objects or seamlessly alter background elements within video footage, matching the quality and fluidity of traditional still image editing. With Project Fast Fill, users could achieve feats like removing an unwanted person from a video clip or seamlessly transitioning a scene to a completely different location. The AI’s prowess automatically filled the void with realistic content that harmonized perfectly with the surrounding environment, opening up endless creative opportunities.
Project Dub Dub Dub
Project Dub Dub Dub was another game-changing feature that showcased Adobe’s prowess in AI automation. This tool streamlined the complex process of video dubbing by automatically translating a recording or audio track into all supported languages. Remarkably, it preserved the original speaker’s voice, ensured temporal alignment with the original dialogue, and readied the content for global publication. For video creators, this was a monumental time-saver, facilitating the process of translating content for a worldwide audience and making videos more accessible to non-English speakers.
Project Scene Change
Project Scene Change is a new technology that makes it easy to composite a subject and a scene from two separate videos — captured with different camera trajectories — into one scene with synchronized camera motion.
This is done by using artificial intelligence to render a 3D representation of the background scene from a prerecorded image as if it was captured by a free-moving camera. The separately filmed subject is then composited into this new scene with proper shadows, creating a realistic and seamless effect.
Project Scene Change has the potential to revolutionize the way video editors work, as it removes any limitations due to the camera motion of existing video assets. This means that editors can now place a subject into any environment they want, with realistic camera motion, without having to reshoot the footage.
Project Neo
Project Neo is a new technology that enables creators to embrace simplified 3D design within 2D tools and methods.
This is done by using a new, unified 3D and 2D design space that allows creators to work with 3D objects in the same way that they would work with 2D shapes and images.
Project Neo also includes a number of new features that make it easier to create and edit 3D objects, such as non-destructive modeling and real-time rendering.
Project Neo has the potential to make 3D design more accessible to a wider range of creators, and to open up new possibilities for creative expression.
Project ResUp
Project ResUp is a new technology that uses artificial intelligence to upscale low-resolution images and videos to high resolution without sacrificing quality.
This is done by using a deep learning model that has been trained on a massive dataset of high-resolution images and videos. The model is able to learn the patterns and relationships between pixels in high-resolution images, and then use this knowledge to upscale low-resolution images and videos in a way that preserves detail and quality.
Project ResUp has the potential to be a valuable tool for creators who need to upscale their legacy work for different platforms, such as social media, print, or large-screen displays. It can also be used to restore old or damaged images and videos.
Project Posable
Beyond the sphere of video, Adobe didn’t hold back on revealing innovative AI-powered tools for audio and 3D design. Project Poseable, a prime example, was a novel AI-based image generation model that facilitated the creation of realistic 3D images and videos of people, even in intricate or impossible poses that would challenge traditional cameras.
Project Draw and Delight
Meanwhile, Project Draw & Delight emerged as a comprehensive suite of generative AI tools that breathed life into raw ideas, often mere doodles or scribbles, by transforming them into refined illustrations. This could really come in handy for those who can’t draw, looking to create compelling storyboards.
Final Thoughts
These dazzling examples are just the tip of the iceberg. Adobe’s commitment to AI-driven innovation is poised to change the game again for the creative landscape. These tools have the potential to democratize creativity, making it accessible to individuals of all skill levels. In the grander scheme of things, as AI technology continues to advance, we can anticipate an influx of even more innovative and potent tools that will enable us to explore and express ourselves in novel and thrilling ways. The democratization of creativity, enhanced accessibility, and a more powerful creative toolkit await us, thanks to Adobe’s pioneering efforts in the AI realm.
But the question remains … is it too late to keep this genie in the bottle?
Apple has acknowledged the overheating issues plaguing its latest flagship smartphone, the iPhone 15, and has pledged to rectify the issue through a forthcoming firmware update. In an official statement, Apple attributed the overheating problem to two key factors: increased background activity in some third-party applications and a bug within the iOS 17 operating system. The company did not provide specifics regarding the nature of these issues, but did confirm that the iPhone 15 has been running “warmer than expected.”
Numerous users have reported instances of overheating, particularly while using the device in conjunction with charging via the new USB-C cable connection. The heightened background activity during the initial days of use, often driven by the installation of preferred apps and the transfer of data such as photos, videos, and music playlists from previous devices, places additional strain on the iPhone, forcing it to work harder to ensure a swift transition without disrupting the user experience.
Apple’s statement also shed light on another contributing factor: recent updates to third-party apps that have been overloading the iPhone’s A17 Pro processor and other components, following software updates designed to leverage the enhanced performance of the iPhone 15. Notably, Apple mentioned its ongoing collaboration with app developers to deploy fixes aimed at resolving this issue.
Image Credit – Apple
Apps like Instagram, which have undergone recent updates to take advantage of the iPhone 15’s increased capabilities, were specifically identified as culprits in overloading the device’s processing system. Apple noted that Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has made efforts to reduce power consumption and lower processor temperatures.
Furthermore, Apple admitted the presence of a bug within iOS 17, described as “impacting some users.” The company assured its users that this issue would be addressed in an upcoming update, with a focus on optimizing power management while preserving the iPhone 15’s acclaimed performance, especially in resource-intensive applications such as gaming and video recording.
Although the imminent iOS 17.1 update is expected to alleviate the overheating problem from a software perspective, concerns persist about the device feeling warm to the touch. Apple emphasized that the titanium and aluminum exoskeleton, exclusive to the higher-end iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models, is engineered to rapidly dissipate excess heat.
However, this advanced technology is not incorporated into the base models, including the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, both of which have experienced overheating issues. Consequently, uncertainty surrounds whether the forthcoming software fix will comprehensively resolve the problem or if Apple will need to continue troubleshooting.
Currently, iOS 17.1 is undergoing beta testing to evaluate the efficacy of the temperature-reduction changes. As of now, Apple has not announced a specific release date for the update. Encouragingly, not all users have reported experiencing the overheating problem, suggesting that it may be a temporary concern for those affected.
Apple remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering a top-tier user experience. Acknowledging the iPhone 15’s overheating issue is a significant step toward addressing customer apprehensions and providing a timely resolution.
Sony has thrown its hat into the wireless microphone arena with three game-changing devices designed to cater to the needs of professionals in videography, podcasting, and live streaming.
Image Credit – SONY
ECM-W3/W3S: High-Performance in a Compact Package
Sony’s ECM-W3 steps into the ring to take on the likes of RØDE Wireless Pro and DJI Mic, offering professional-grade sound quality with universal camera compatibility. Its lightweight design, featuring both transmitter and receiver, ensures portability and ease of use. With three 14mm large diameter capsules, it captures crisp audio while reducing ambient noise.
Specifications:
Three 14mm large diameter capsules
Noise-cut filter and windscreen
Multi-channel operation
Sony’s LC3Plus audio codec
Range: Up to 492 feet
Battery life: Up to 6 hours
Transmitter power source: MI Shoe
ECM-W3S: Two transmitters and one receiver
Image Credit – SONY
ECM-S1: Streamlined for Live Streaming and Podcasting
For live streaming and podcasting aficionados, the ECM-S1 delivers a simple yet effective solution. Its three capture modes – Monoaural unidirectional, Omnidirectional, and Stereo unidirectional – cover a variety of recording needs. The included pop filter reduces plosives, and its desktop stand is adjustable for optimal positioning.
Specifications:
Three capture modes: Monoaural unidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo unidirectional
Pop filter included
Adjustable 360° desktop stand
Range: Up to 492 feet
Battery life: Up to 13 hours
Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
Pricing and Availability
These cutting-edge microphones come at an accessible price point: ECM-W3 ($469), ECM-W3S ($349), and ECM-S1 ($419). Preorders are now open through authorized Sony dealers. The ECM-S1 is set to ship in October 2023, while the ECM-W3 and W3S will follow in November 2023.
Sony’s new wireless microphones are poised to reshape the audio landscape for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Adobe, a household name in the world of digital creativity, has recently implemented a significant shift in its pricing structure for Creative Cloud subscriptions. Effective as of [insert date], this decision to raise prices has ignited a widespread discussion in the creative community, raising questions about whether this move represents an innovation imperative or a financial strategy.
The Pricing Shift: A Closer Look
Before delving into the motivations behind the price increase, it’s crucial to understand the extent of these adjustments. Adobe has revamped both monthly and annual rates, impacting users across the spectrum.
Image Credit – Adobe
Individual Plans –
Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps: Previous Monthly Rate: $52.99 per month. New Monthly Rate: $59.99 per month. Previous Annual Rate: $599.88 per year, New Annual Rate: $635.88 per year
Adobe Creative Cloud Photography Plan (including Photoshop and Lightroom): Previous Monthly Rate: $9.99 per month, New Monthly Rate: $12.99 per month, Previous Annual Rate: $119.88 per year
New Annual Rate: $155.88 per year
Adobe Creative Cloud Single App (e.g., Photoshop or Illustrator): Previous Monthly Rate: $20.99 per month per app, New Monthly Rate: $22.99 per month per app
Business Plans –
Adobe Creative Cloud for Teams All Apps (Annual): Previous Annual Rate: $839.88 per user per year, New Annual Rate: $869.88 per user per year.
Adobe states, however, that this new pricing structure will include “generative credits that can be used with Firefly-powered features across select Creative Cloud apps.” Adobe Firefly will be incorporated into the all apps price plan as a result. These select plans will also include access to Adobe Express Premium plan. Moreover, Creative Cloud for students and teachers plans do not indicate a price increase at this time.
Now, the pivotal question emerges: What drives these changes? Are they warranted, or do they hint at a cash grab?
Creative Cloud for students and teachers All Apps plan
Adobe’s Latest Innovation Drive: Latest Features in Premiere Pro and After Effects
Adobe has consistently emphasized the need to fund ongoing innovation, infrastructure maintenance, and support for their expansive user base. The benefit of an annual subscription, is that updates come as they are finished, and not just every year. Users no longer have to buy a new version of Creative Cloud annually, they get a new version several times a year at a much more affordable price point.
One just has to look at the most recent update, to see how Adobe is keeping up with the bleeding edge of features wanted by creatives, especially in an emerging AI dominated workflow. A deep dive into recent features added to Adobe’s software applications, Premiere Pro and After Effects, provides a glimpse into the ongoing innovation:
Premiere Pro:
Enhance Speech: Leveraging artificial intelligence, this feature elevates speech quality in videos, even in challenging audio environments.
Text-Based Editing Improvements: A more streamlined text editing experience includes the ability to edit multiple text layers simultaneously and apply effects to text layers non-destructively.
Performance Optimizations: Adobe optimized Premiere Pro for speed, enabling the rendering of multiple clips in parallel and utilizing GPU acceleration for effects rendering.
After Effects:
Live Text Templates: Simplifying the creation and editing of text templates, this feature ensures that changes to the source text file are automatically reflected in the After Effects template.
Motion Graphics Templates: These templates enable the creation of complex animations and visual effects without the need for coding skills, democratizing motion graphics creation.
Performance Optimizations: Similar to Premiere Pro, After Effects now boasts performance enhancements, including parallel rendering and GPU-accelerated effects rendering.
These feature updates underscore Adobe’s commitment to equipping users with state-of-the-art creative tools. However, as Adobe enforces a price increase for Creative Cloud subscriptions, the question lingers: Is this adjustment primarily driven by the need for innovation, or does it lean towards financial motivations based on an inflationary landscape?
While Adobe’s vision is clear – to empower users with cutting-edge creative tools – the debate over whether this price shift aligns perfectly with its mission continues. Adobe users, spanning from individual creatives to large enterprises, find themselves at a crossroads, contemplating the financial implications of these changes. In this evolving landscape of digital creativity, their choices will be instrumental in shaping the future of creative software pricing and innovation.
Blackmagic Design, renowned for its high-end cinema cameras, has just unveiled the Blackmagic Camera app, providung a viable alternative to subscription based professional-grade filmmaking tools on the iPhone. This development not only elevates the potential of iPhone videography but also presents a compelling alternative to FiLMiC Pro, which recently transitioned to a subscription-based model.
Image Credit – Blackmagic Design
The Blackmagic Camera app is set to redefine iPhone filmmaking with an array of features that make it a serious contender for the title of the best iPhone camera app. Some of its standout features include frame rate control, shutter angle adjustment, white balance customization, ISO settings, and focus assist. It also supports recording in Apple ProRes, HEVC, and H.264 codecs, ensuring high-quality video capture.
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One of the most notable aspects of the Blackmagic Camera app is its seamless integration with Blackmagic Cloud. This allows users to not only record but also share media with others worldwide. Grant Petty, CEO of Blackmagic Design, expressed the app’s revolutionary potential, saying, “Blackmagic Camera is a truly revolutionary workflow for creating feature film quality content using an iPhone. Now they can get their footage to the newsroom or post-production studio in minutes!”
Image Credit – Blackmagic Design
Key Features of Blackmagic Camera:
– **Aspect Ratios**: Shoot in 16:9 or vertical aspect ratios, providing flexibility for various content formats.
– **Stealth Mode**: Shoot in 16:9 while holding the phone vertically with this unique stealth mode.
– **Codec Support**: Capture footage in Apple ProRes, HEVC, and H.264, with automatic proxy generation for efficient editing.
– **Camera Controls**: Take command of frame rate, shutter speed, exposure, white balance, tint, and color space, ensuring precise control over your shots.
– **Monitoring Tools**: Utilize focus assist, zebra, frame guides, histogram, and 3D LUT monitoring to refine your compositions.
– **Timecode Recording**: Record time of day or run time timecode for precise synchronization.
– **Audio Recording**: Choose between PCM, IEEE Float, or AAC audio recording with support for 44.1 or 48 kHz sample rates. VU or PPM audio meters provide audio level monitoring.
– **Media Management**: Access a thumbnail view of all recorded clips in the media tab, simplifying clip selection.
– **Integration with Blackmagic Cloud and DaVinci Resolve**: Seamlessly record to your iPhone, select recorded clips to share via Blackmagic Cloud, or sync automatically for efficient post-production.
**Comparison to FiLMiC Pro**
FiLMiC Pro, once a go-to choice for iPhone filmmakers, recently adopted a subscription-based model, which has raised concerns among its user base. Many content creators have been seeking alternatives that don’t burden their wallets with recurring subscription fees.
Blackmagic Camera is not just an alternative; it could be a FiLMiC Pro killer. Offering many of the same professional tools, including manual controls and high-quality recording, it does so for free. Moreover, Blackmagic Camera is lauded for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible to a broader audience.
The question arises: Could Blackmagic Camera dethrone FiLMiC Pro? While FiLMiC Pro still retains its popularity and loyal following, the free and user-friendly alternative presented by Blackmagic Camera is poised to make a significant impact. The app’s impressive feature set and the absence of subscription fees are compelling factors that could sway content creators in its direction.
Only time will tell whether Blackmagic Camera will emerge as the ultimate FiLMiC Pro killer. For now, the competition is heating up, and content creators have a powerful new tool at their disposal in the form of the Blackmagic Camera app.
