Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR

Used with high quality lenses the latest DSLRs are capable of producing high-end stills, but their video quality is limited by heavily compressed output formats. Used on productions like ABC’s ‘Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D’, Video Assist 12G HDR takes HDMI signals directly from the camera, bypassing the DSLR’s compression to record broadcast quality Ultra HD video.

By expanding the monitoring and recording capabilities of compact cinema cameras, DSLRs and even older tape based camcorders, Video Assist enables creative teams and individuals to leverage existing equipment to produce professional content for cinema and live broadcast.

High capital investment is one of the primary barriers for independent filmmakers and local broadcasters looking to produce high quality video content. Video Assist 12G HDR provides an affordable means of recording and assessing cinematic quality Ultra HD footage.

Powered by two consumer DSLR batteries in remote applications and recording faultless Ultra HD video footage to fast, inexpensive standard SD cards, Video Assist 12G HDR negates the need for further investment in high-end camera equipment and bulky, expensive storage media.

The ability of camera operators to correctly capture scenes with sharp focus and immersive composition is critical to the success of any professional production. This is often difficult with compact cameras and DSLRs whose small, low resolution displays are inadequate for reliable evaluation.

The vivid 2500 nit touchscreen is twice as bright as the world’s leading smartphones and is significantly larger and sharper than typical DSLR displays, allowing for more accurate evaluation of framing and focus. With a 135° viewing angle it is ideal for large crews, with an auto-rotate feature ensuring correct orientation despite how it is mounted.

In unforgiving locations and hectic film sets, resilience is critical. The Video Assist 12G HDR is a purposeful expression of the environmental, functional and ergonomic challenges it addresses. Pairing a rational, no fuss visual language with an approachable GUI, it elicits trust in both novice and professional filmmakers.

Its minimal enclosure is CNC machined from aircraft grade aluminium, free of all but essential details for optimal performance and reliability. Highly compact and lightweight, it balances tactical durability with portability, requiring little more than off-the-shelf DSLR batteries for continuous use in the harshest of locations.