Blackmagic has repeatedly solidified its reputation for relatively affordable film cameras. The recent Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K improved upon its predecessors with a full-frame sensor and a flexible L-mount that can accept a wide range of lenses on the camera body, all for a reasonable starting price of $2,595. Now you can buy one for $1,000 less than usual at B&H and Adorama.
The Blackmagic Cinema Camera 6K (9/10, WIRED recommended) is now $1,575 at select retailers, making it cheaper than the older Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K G2, which doesn’t even have a full-frame sensor. Blackmagic hasn’t set an end date for this sale, but says that “stocks are extremely limited,” so this deal may not last long.
This camera uses Leica L mount system, which has a short enough flange focal length that, with the right adapter, you can use lenses designed for the Canon EF mount, Nikon F mount, and many other lens systems. (The only notable exception is Micro Four Thirds lenses, but that still leaves a large number of lenses available.)
It’s also a full-frame camera, meaning the sensor is the size of a frame of 35mm film. This can capture more scenes in one frame (if you’re coming from a camera with a cropped sensor). Larger pixels can also deliver more colors and less noise at higher ISO settings. It is worth noting that this camera does not No have in-body image stabilization or autofocus tracking.
If you were on the fence about purchasing this particular camera, or an affordable film camera in general, it’s hard to imagine you’ll find a better deal.