Which Blackmagic Ursa?

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David Evans

Well-known member
Hi,

From a while now, I've been saving for a 5000 usd camera, and I was almost sure the Ursa mini 4.6k was the right one. I'm looking for for a camera mainly for indie filmmaking work, so this looked like the ideal camera for me. I never paid much attention to the Ursa mini 4k because it has poor dynamic range and we all know that DR is of extreme importance for the film look. But recently I started watching some footage from the 4k and, I dont know if it's the quality of the DOPs that are using them, but the colors just seem "fuller" to me. Of course, if it's a sunny day, the image falls apart, but in a controlled environment, the image just looks deeper than the 4.6k. Anyone noticed this? I'm about to pull the trigger on one of these cameras, but I'm completely lost now...:|
 
It depends on how you will use the camera. If you will be in controlled settings and mostly indoors where you use lighting (studio environment) and your final video will be viewed mostly on the web then save the $2k and go for the cheaper model. If you will be shooting lots of outdoors, intend to use your finished footage for large screens or broadcast networks then the 4.6k will help you with extra 3 stops and ISO. Also the 4.6k will be helpful with higher shutter speeds if you need the extra ISO, which I believe the 4k version is only usable at 400 ISO and the 4.6k is usable at only 800 ISO. You need to understand when looking at footage on the web that not all cinematographers are equal, some will get you better images with the 4k than others will be able to get out of the 4.6k. If your needs will be met by the 4k but still not sure which way to go make the decision based on your finances, if you got plenty of cash then go for the 4.6k if you need to buy other accessories and you are tight on money go for the 4k. At the end if you deliver on the web, shoot under control environments and will not shoot a lot of high shutter speeds for slow motion then I would go for the 4k otherwise 4.6k.
 
The Ursa will cost more than $5K when you start adding all the components to make it really usable. Viewfinder, batteries, media, flux capacitor, etc... Some say closer to 7 or 8K.
Can't argue about the picture quality for the money, tho. Stunning!
I was looking at getting one, but ended up with a Sony FS5 demo model. Very happy with it. Lotsa DR. Low light is pretty good too.
 
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