Blackmagic's codec offering raw flexibility with smaller file sizes through partial debayering in-camera.
Technical Details
Blackmagic RAW supports resolutions from 1920×1080 to 8192×4320 at frame rates up to 120fps, depending on the camera model. The format operates with a 12-bit color depth and utilizes a wavelet-based compression algorithm. Available quality levels are 3:1, 5:1, 8:1, and 12:1 (constant quality) as well as Q0 and Q5 (constant bitrate). Metadata includes camera-specific parameters such as ISO, white balance, and exposure. Partial debayering shifts computationally intensive processes to post-production hardware and enables GPU-accelerated decoding in DaVinci Resolve.
History & Development
Blackmagic Design introduced the format in April 2018 with the URSA Mini Pro 4.6K G2. The development aimed to reduce the file size of uncompressed Cinema DNG files without sacrificing color grading flexibility. In 2019, Blackmagic extended support to the Pocket Cinema Camera 4K and 6K. Since 2020, all new Blackmagic cameras implement the format by default. Version 2.0 of the codec, released in 2021, brought improved compression efficiency and expanded metadata support.
Practical Use in Film
The Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit" (2020) used Blackmagic RAW for individual sequences shot with the URSA Mini Pro 12K. Documentary filmmakers prefer the format due to lower storage requirements on long shooting days – a 128GB CFast card holds approximately 55 minutes of 4K footage in 5:1 compression. In DaVinci Resolve, editing is done natively without transcoding. Colorists appreciate the ability to adjust ISO values and white balance in post-production without quality loss.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to RED RAW, Blackmagic RAW offers lower licensing costs and direct integration into DaVinci Resolve, but does not achieve the same compression efficiency. Apple ProRes RAW requires additional hardware decoders, whereas Blackmagic RAW is decoded on a software basis. Cinema DNG remains uncompressed but generates 3-5x larger files. ARRI RAW only works with ARRI cameras, while Blackmagic RAW is exclusively limited to Blackmagic hardware. For budget productions using Blackmagic equipment, there are no additional licensing costs.
News
With firmware update 6.00 for the FX6 (March 2026), Sony is expanding support for Blackmagic RAW through direct HDMI output. This integration allows FX6 users for the first time to utilize Blackmagic's RAW format directly via external recorders, without relying on proprietary Sony formats.