
Build a Pro iPhone Rig with Tilta Khronos
"I want to be a filmmaker. Where do I start? What camera should I use?"
This is one of the most common questions cinematographers like Shane Hurlbut, ASC, get from aspiring storytellers. His answer is often surprising: start with the powerful cinema camera already in your pocket. Modern smartphones,…

URSA Cine 12K LF Latitude Tests & Sensor Tech
We've explored the build, specs, features, and controls of the Blackmagic URSA Cine 12K LF in the previous parts of our deep-dive demonstration. (Check out Parts 1, 2 & 3…) Now, we arrive at the crucial test: How does this camera really handle light?
In this final segment, Shane Hurlbut, ASC,…

URSA Cine 12K LF Ergonomics, Performance & Control
Having examined the core specs and put the sensor through its paces in Part 2, Shane Hurlbut, ASC, and Blackmagic's Tor Johansen now turn their attention to the practical realities of using the URSA Cine 12K LF on a professional set. How easy is it to control? How does it handle? What are its capabilities…

URSA Cine 12K LF Skin Tones, ISO & Compression
Welcome back to our deep dive into the Blackmagic URSA Cine 12K LF! In Part 1, we covered the first impressions – the build, media, and foundational tech. Now, we get to the heart of what truly matters for cinematographers: the image itself. How does this camera render skin tones? How does it handle…

URSA Cine 12K LF Specs, Media & Workflow
Blackmagic Design has a history of shaking things up. From democratizing color grading with DaVinci Resolve to putting RAW recording in compact cameras, they've consistently challenged the status quo. Now, with the URSA Cine 12K LF, they're stepping firmly into the high-end cinema arena, aiming not just…

A Guide to Blackmagic Cameras 2025
Blackmagic Design. The name might not have the decades-long legacy of an ARRI or a Panavision, but in the world of digital filmmaking, it's become a force to be reckoned with. Initially known for their high-quality, affordable video editing software (DaVinci Resolve) and capture cards, Blackmagic made…

CAMERA SENSOR COMPARISON: URSA CINE 12K vs RED V-RAPTOR vs ALEXA 35
This Camera Sensor Comparison is your guide to navigating the complex world of digital cinema cameras. Choosing the right one can feel like deciphering a foreign language: 12K, RGBW, global shutter – what does it all really mean?
We'll break down the technology behind the Blackmagic URSA Cine 12K…

Is the Hollyland Cosmo C2 the Best Budget Wireless Video System?
Let's be honest. Wireless video transmission can be a nightmare. We've all been there. You're on a multi-camera shoot, juggling cables, fighting interference, and praying that your feeds don't drop at the worst possible moment. It's stressful, time-consuming, and can seriously impact your production…

Blackmagic URSA Cine 12K: The Future is Modular
The world of cinema is constantly evolving. What was once the exclusive domain of major studios with unlimited budgets is becoming increasingly accessible to independent filmmakers, thanks to companies like Blackmagic Design. The Blackmagic URSA Cine 12K Body is a powerful tool that puts cinematic quality…

Hollyland Lark M2S: Ultra-Compact Wireless Microphone
In the realm of filmmaking and video content creation, stunning visuals often take center stage. However, seasoned professionals know that audio is equally, if not more, critical to creating a truly immersive and engaging experience. High-quality, clear audio captures the nuances of dialogue, the richness…

Media Management: Safeguard CF Express & SD Cards
In the fast-paced world of filmmaking, managing your media efficiently and securely, like CF Express and SD cards, is as crucial as capturing the perfect shot. Lost or corrupted footage can be a filmmaker's worst nightmare, especially for independent creators operating with limited resources.
In…

Cinematography Tip: Fix Sony Burano Magenta Color Shift
Cinematography Tip: Fix Sony Burano Magenta Color Shift
The world of filmmaking has transformed dramatically over the years. Cameras have evolved from bulky, cumbersome devices to sleek, powerful machines capable of capturing breathtaking imagery. We've come a long way from the days of film, where color…

Key Light: Cinematic Lighting Technique
In the world of cinematography, lighting is more than just illumination. It's an art form that shapes perception, evokes emotion, and guides the viewer's eye. Mastering different lighting techniques is essential for any filmmaker looking to elevate their storytelling.
In this Filmmakers Academy lesson,…






Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Filmmakers 2024
'Tis the season to give the gift of cinematic magic! We're talking Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the entire holiday season. Our 2024 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Filmmakers is your one-stop shop for finding the perfect presents for the filmmakers in your life. We've curated a selection of top-notch…

Mastering Exposure with Cinematography Monitors
As a cinematographer, achieving the perfect exposure is paramount to crafting a visually stunning film. It's the foundation upon which the entire look of your project is built. A well-exposed image is not only aesthetically pleasing but also conveys the intended mood and atmosphere. To ensure that your…