DeckLink studio realtime capture Cineform
 

Hi!

Is it possible to capture directly to Cineform NeoHD codec through the Blackmagic Decklink Studio card?
I am doing some greenscreen work with the EX1, and trying to find best solution to capture 4:2:2 signal.
I tried to capture Blackmagic uncompressed, but I got to large files

Thanks

Yes, this works fine.

Hey, Patrik. We just finished principle photography on our latest feature, Blood Rites (UE's Blood Rites), during which we captured about 80% of the film directly to Cineform using an older Blackmagic card via HD-SDI from my JVC GY-HD250. Here are a few things you'll need to know.

First you will use HD Link to capture, not Blackmagic's capture software. In HD Link you'll go into properties and turn on the feature that allows capture via AJA and Blackmagic cards. Second be sure to match the video settings to exactly what the camera is outputting.

The preview window through HD Link works great for critical focus and exposure. We were tethered via a 100ft cable back to the video village communicating with our DIT via wireless headsets.

We're just starting post and I can tell you that the extra color info will make a difference. We captured to tape as well as a backup so I was able to test the HD-SDI footage against the HDV footage, both converted to Cineform. Pre-color grading the difference is unnoticeable, but once you start keying, grading, etc., you'll see it. Even Firstlight showed differences.