The biggest barriers to entry for people wanting to produce live content include the high cost, complexity and lack of flexibility of traditional broadcast equipment. The Blackmagic Studio Camera 4K was developed as an affordable, intuitive to use alternative that allows newcomers to produce professional-quality content in a straightforward manner. In terms of the product design, the biggest innovation is probably the camera’s construction. The central moulded part of the housing results in a drastic reduction in the number of components, and thus the complexity of manufacturing. An innovative carbon fibre and polycarbonate composite played a crucial role when developing the housing. Compared to cast-metal parts, this reduces the weight by 50 per cent while providing the same level of robustness and rigidity and similar surface properties – while only costing half as much. Furthermore, the camera is very compact and can thus be used flexibly in different recording environments. The integrated studio monitor with a large, bright 7" LCD allows for precise framing and focus. The head-up display shows the key information in the field of vision, while the touchscreen user interface provides quick access to additional functions. Ergonomic dials and customisable function buttons allow the user to fine-tune critical settings without looking.
Statement by the Jury
The Blackmagic Studio Camera 4K represents a successful and comprehensive reduction process that encompasses not only the dimensions and weight but also the complexity and price. This has resulted in an impressively handy camera that nevertheless manages to provide all the functions required on set. The functional design of the studio camera creates confidence in the underlying technology, while the interplay of the large display, touchscreen and analogue control elements provides a perfect user experience when filming.
