Blackmagic Firmware Update 7.3: What You Need to Know
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Gear Focus
May 17, 2021
Earlier this month, BMD released the Blackmagic Firmware Update 7.3. Today, we're going to give you step-by-step instructions on how to properly update your firmware. We will also explore some of the features from the update as well as take a quick look at the differences between Gen 4 and Gen 5 color science.
Blackmagic Firmware Update Prep
It's super easy to update the Blackmagic firmware to version 7.3! Start off by making sure you are doing the update the right way. All you need is a USB C cable to update and a consistent power source. It's probably best to plug into the wall adapter for this. Also, keep in mind that when you update your firmware, all of your user settings will be reset. But you can save the preset as a file.
Step 1
First, put an SD card in the camera and then go to Menu, then presets. Create a new preset and name it whatever you'd like. Next, click on the double arrow and hit EXPORT PRESET. Remove the SD card. Now you can disconnect all of your accessories from the ports.
Step 2
Now you are ready to update the firmware. To download the Firmware package from BMD, use this link:
Step 3
After download, unzip the file and run the INSTALL CAMERA.exe. Once that's installed, open the Blackmagic Camera setup on your computer and plug your camera in and turn it on. Then follow the prompts on the screen. Now that we are updated, let's talk about some of the best new features!
Explore the New Blackmagic Firmware Features
RGB Histo - Now you can see if individual colors are clipping. This is awesome! I use the histogram for my exposure all the time. So now, being able to see if I have any colors clipping is a game-changer for on-set. The only other cameras that I've used that have this feature are RED cameras.
B-RAW Constant Quality Q1 and Q3 - More compression ratios for the B-RAW codec. Before this update, it was just Q0 and Q5, which have huge file sizes. Now you have Q1 and Q3 as an option.
Gen 5 Color Science
Gen 5 was available before in DaVinci Resolve 17, but now it's available on the camera itself. The Gen 5 color science gives a better highlight roll-off and a flatter image to start with.
Understanding the Blackmagic Firmware Update
By updating the firmware, you will be able to explore new features that are added to the device and also have an enhanced user experience while interacting with the device. A firmware update will optimize the performance of firmware or device driver, enhancing the performance of the processor.
Looking at log footage can sometimes be tricky, so make sure you get a proper preview LUT for conversion to REC.709. I personally use the buttery LUTs conversion. If you have any questions about the update, let us know, and we'd be happy to help. And if you are looking to sell your Blackmagic Design camera, list for FREE on Gear Focus! Be sure to read about our updated platform with new features and see what's in the works for upcoming releases as well!
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